I will greatly rejoice in the Lord, My soul shall be joyful in my God; For He has clothed me with the garments of salvation. He has covered me with righteousness. I will remember and stand upon what you inspired Nehemiah to say “…for this day is holy to our Lord. Do not sorrow, for the joy of the Lord is your strength.” [Isaiah 61:10; Nehemiah 8:10]
Holy Spirit I want to emulate Nehemiah. I want to rebuild the spiritual walls around my town and my family just as he fasted and prayed and then was allowed to rebuild the walls of Jerusalem. I know he faced the enemies of God who threatened his reputation and his life, and I know by taking this stand I will face this same opposition. I give my life to You. As a watchman on the wall, I will put on the whole armor of God. I will every morning strap on the belt of truth which will hold the tools of my prayers and knowledge of the word and the words that will come from my heart. I will then put on the breastplate of righteousness to ensure my heart is protected and pump the holiness and righteousness through my body to give me strength. I will put on my feet the shoes that will help me to walk the gospel of peace. I will strap the shield of faith to my arm so that I can defend against the attacks of the enemy and repel all his lies and half-truths hurled at me daily. I will lift my sword of the spirit and pray Your word so that You take command not only of my day but that You strike the fear of the Lord into my town and my family so that they can have salvation. I will pray in the Spirit and be watchful to this end with all perseverance and supplication for my family, my town, and all the saints. Help me to speak boldly when needed. Help my Spirit to be aware of the danger and to be bold to be a Watchman who understands “the weapons of my warfare are not carnal but mighty in God for pulling down strongholds, casting down arguments and every high thing that exalts itself against the knowledge of God, bringing every thought into captivity to the obedience of Christ. [2 Corinthians 10:4&5]
The end of all things is near. Therefore, be clear-minded and self-controlled so that you can pray. Above all, love each other deeply, because love covers a multitude of sins. Offer hospitality to one another without grumbling. Each one should use whatever gift he has received to serve others, faithfully administering God’s grace in its various forms. If anyone speaks, he should do it as one speaking the very words of God. If anyone serves, he should do it with the strength God provides, so that God may be praised through Jesus Christ in all things. To him be the glory and the power forever and ever. Amen. 1 Peter 4:7-11