Both Hands Occupied (Neh. 4:17)

In one hand was the work (the tool, the load, the contribution).  In the other hand was the weapon (the sword or spear).  Nehemiah's strategy was to build and defend, to construct and deter.  Half-hearted, one-handed builder-warriors needed not apply.  Nehemiah required committed worker-warriors.

Here are three observations from Nehemiah 4:17.

1. The goal was to build the wall, not to win a war.  Keep the main thing the main thing.  What are you "building" in God's kingdom?
2. Willingness to work without readiness to fight is a huge risk.  You must be prepared for attack, even if threats never materialize.  This is true of governments that battle terrorism.  It is also true of the church as it battles Satan (1 Pet. 5:8).
3. Don't just be prepared to fight.  Some Christians are addicted to spiritual warfare.  Satan wins when all the church's energy goes to defense.  It's time for some more offense!