Satan relentlessly tries to attack Christ's Church, using many cunning devices. Let us resolve to stand firm in the face of his attacks, knowing we have a God who strengthens weak hands.

Nehemiah called God's people to love one another, and he forswore his privileges and rights to model such love. Nehemiah points us to Jesus who generously and sacrificially laid down his life for the church and calls his church to follow in his steps.

Nehemiah's leadership in building the city of God points us to Jesus who leads us to build His church in the midst of opposition, working diligently and in prayerful dependence upon the Lord.

As servants of God, we must have the welfare of the city of God as our all-consuming priority - with our hearts engaged and our hands busy working on her behalf.

It is a matter of utmost seriousness that we as Christ's people keep ourselves unstained by the world; therefore we must view worldliness as grievous compromise and earnestly repent when we find ourselves entangled in it.

Despite opposition, Israel labored on in rebuilding the temple and ultimately completed the work because God ensured her success. So too it is with us! We must labor to build Christ's church through gospel proclamation, trusting that success is guaranteed through the One who promises that the gates of hell will not prevail against us.

Upon Israel's return to the land after her exile due to sin, of first importance to her was reestablishing worship of the Lord. This poses a good question for us as those no longer exiled from God's presence through Christ – is the worship of God of first importance to us?

In Ezra, God initiates a second exodus and sovereignly frees His people from captivity. These events point forward to the greatest exodus of all – the freedom given to captive sinners like us through Jesus Christ.

Ezra and Nehemiah are about the rebuilding of the city of God. Ultimately, this is fulfilled in Jesus Christ, through whom God is building the heavenly Jerusalem - His church. Are you dwelling within her walls? Are you building her up?

Israel, the vine of God's planting, is ravaged and desolate because of his rebellion. But God is working a glorious plan that will see his vine restored to unbelievable fruitfulness.