God's Labourers

"Those who built on the wall, and those who carried burdens, loaded themselves so that with one hand they worked at construction, and with the other held a weapon."

Nehemiah 4:17

The workers who rebuilt the walls of Jerusalem were armed and prepared to fend off the attacks of their enemies.  It is from this passage C.H. Spurgeon titled his magazine, "The Sword and the Trowel."  He used this verse as an allegorical picture of the role of a Christian in the first issue:  "We would ply the Trowel with untiring hand for the building up of Jerusalem's dilapidated walls, and wield the Sword with vigour and valour against the enemies of the truth." (Spurgeon, C. H. The Sword and the Trowel. Vol. 1. Pasadena, TX: Pilgrim Publications, 1975. Print. pg. 2)  The Bible is called the "Sword of the Spirit," and we ought to always have it at hand in our labours and during conflicts.

The clear priorities of the workmen in this passage are useful for us to consider.  These were primarily builders who were prepared and willing to fight if required - not fighters who were willing to build.  The aim of the enemies of Israel was to cause work on the wall to cease, and if fighting became their primary aim their threats would have been effective.  The workers on the walls of Jerusalem had it right.  They were not looking for a fight, but were firm in their resolve to do God's work even if enemies surrounded or assaulted them.  It is true we do not wrestle against flesh and blood but against principalities and powers, rulers of wickedness in heavenly places.  Yet if we do not faithfully labour for the LORD in obedience, practically encouraging and exhorting our brethren as we lead by example, what have we accomplished?

Jesus said a wise man who hears His words and does them will be likened to a man who built his house upon a rock, and this house was capable of standing firm in the fiercest storm.  If we are doing the LORD's work, it will endure and profit many.  Those who expend their effort fighting their own battles will not realise the peace and security God grants those who trust Him.  Let us fight the LORD's battles, and in the meantime be about our Father's business as was our Saviour.  He is a Refuge and Shield for all who abide in Him.