Detoured by Distractions - October 6, 2024

Dennis R. Wiles 

First Baptist Arlington 

October 6, 2024 

FALL 2024 

Together . . . for the Future 

September 1 – November 2, 2024 

Preaching Voice: Shepherd 

Detoured by Distractions 

Nehemiah 6:1-16 

CELEBRATION OF THE LORD’S SUPPER

Theme for 2024: Together 

Theme for Fall 2024: Together . . . for the Future 

Lessons for Re-Building (or Building) 

-Kneeology: We must begin with prayer! 

-You Are Here: We must accept an honest assessment! 

-Planning and Zoning: Make a plan and get to work! 

-Overcoming Obstacles: Obstacles can be overcome! 

CONTEXT: Nehemiah had led the people in the great re-building project of the reconstruction of the wall around Jerusalem and the installation of the gates in the wall. Nehemiah 6 records the potential distractions faced by Nehemiah and his dismissal of them to continue his tireless focus on the work. And ---- the wall was finally completed! 

DISTRACTIONS

-Fone 

-Fear 

-Focus 

-Frustration 

-Failure 

-Faith 

FEAR – The re-building journey is often fraught with fear. We can move past our fears! 

FOCUS – It is easy to have our attention diverted when we are re-building. Sometimes, we have to intentionally re-focus our attention to the task at hand. 

FRUSTRATION – Re-building is not easy! Sometimes we are frustrated by what we deem to be lack of progress. We must move past our frustrations to keep progressing. 

FAILURE – There may be minor setbacks and “failures” along the way. We can’t be deterred by a less than perfect journey. 

FAITH – God is an expert at renovation, re-construction, restoration, and re-building. Let’s keep our eyes on Him and trust Him for His provision as we keep re-building.