Why Won't They Leave Me Alone?

Opening Monologue:

Workplace Bullying: According to a study by the Workplace Bullying Institute, 19% of employees experience bullying at work.

Cyberbullying: Research from the Cyberbullying Research Center shows that about 37% of young people between the ages of 12 and 17 have been bullied online.

Harassment in Schools: The National Center for Education Statistics reports that 20% of students aged 12-18 have experienced bullying at school.

Racial Discrimination: The Pew Research Center found that 59% of Black adults and 51% of Hispanic adults reported experiencing racial discrimination or being treated unfairly because of their race.

Gender Discrimination: A survey by the Pew Research Center indicates that 42% of working women in the U.S. have faced gender discrimination at work.

Sexual Harassment: The Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC) received over 7,500 sexual harassment complaints in 2018.

Religious Discrimination: According to the Pew Research Center, 82% of Americans say Muslims face discrimination in the U.S., and 64% say Jews face discrimination.

Body Shaming: A survey by the Mental Health Foundation found that 34% of adults in the UK have felt anxious or depressed because of their body image.

Age Discrimination: An AARP survey revealed that 61% of older workers have experienced age discrimination in the workplace.

Scripture Text: Nehemiah 4:1-3

Nehemiah 4:1–3 KJV 1900

But it came to pass, that when Sanballat heard that we builded the wall, he was wroth, and took great indignation, and mocked the Jews. And he spake before his brethren and the army of Samaria, and said, What do these feeble Jews? will they fortify themselves? will they sacrifice? will they make an end in a day? will they revive the stones out of the heaps of the rubbish which are burned? Now Tobiah the Ammonite was by him, and he said, Even that which they build, if a fox go up, he shall even break down their stone wall.

Introduction:

Set the Scene: Nehemiah and the Israelites are hard at work, laboring day and night to rebuild the walls of Jerusalem.

The scene is bustling with activity: the rhythmic clanging of hammers striking stone, the gritty sound of mortar being spread, and the determined chatter of workers encouraging one another.

Dust rises into the air, mingling with the sweat on their brows as the sun beats down mercilessly.

The walls, though still in progress, begin to take shape, standing as a testament to their relentless effort and unity.

Amidst this fervent activity, the workers are focused, each person knowing their role and working with a shared sense of purpose.

Some are lifting heavy stones into place, while others are meticulously fitting them together to ensure the wall's stability.

The atmosphere, though strenuous, is filled with a palpable sense of hope and determination.

Suddenly, the atmosphere shifts as mocking voices pierce through the sounds of construction.

Sanballat, with a sneer of disdain, steps forward with his entourage. He raises his voice, ensuring everyone can hear his derision.

"What are these feeble Jews doing?" he jeers, his voice dripping with contempt.

"Do they think they can restore the wall in a day?"

The workers pause, their hammers and trowels momentarily still in their hands.

Heads turn toward the source of the disruption, and a murmur of unease ripples through the crowd.

The jeers and taunts echo ominously around them, bouncing off the half-built walls and seeping into their minds.

Sanballat's words are soon joined by Tobiah's sneering voice, adding insult to injury.

"If even a fox should run against it, he would break down their stone wall!"

Despite the constant harassment and scorn, Nehemiah steps forward, his face resolute.

He addresses the workers, urging them to press on.

His words are a balm to their weary spirits, reminding them of their faith and commitment to restore their city.

The workers, inspired by Nehemiah's leadership and fortified by their shared purpose, pick up their tools once more.

They press on, driven by their faith and determination, embodying resilience in the face of overwhelming adversity.

Relatable Struggle: We all know what it's like to face relentless opposition, to feel discouraged, and to wonder, "Why is it just me?"

Maybe it's that coworker who always finds a way to belittle your efforts, making snide remarks about your work during meetings or gossiping behind your back.

Every time you try to share an idea, they interrupt with dismissive comments, leaving you feeling undervalued and frustrated.

At home, you might deal with a family member who constantly questions your decisions, undermining your confidence.

They might say things like, "Are you sure you know what you're doing?" or "Why can't you be more like so-and-so?"

These comments, though seemingly harmless, chip away at your self-esteem over time.

In social circles, you might encounter friends who make you the butt of their jokes or downplay your achievements.

They might laugh off your accomplishments, saying things like, "Oh, that was just luck," or "Anyone could have done that."

These persistent jabs make you question your worth and whether you truly belong.

Even in your quiet moments, an overwhelming sense of doubt and fear can creep in.

You might find yourself lying awake at night, replaying negative interactions in your mind and questioning your path.

This struggle is universal

Central Question: Pose the question of tension: "Why won't they leave me alone?" and set the stage for exploring the text and finding answers.

Sermon Outline:

I. The Mockery of the Enemy (Nehemiah 4:1-2

Nehemiah 4:1–2 KJV 1900

But it came to pass, that when Sanballat heard that we builded the wall, he was wroth, and took great indignation, and mocked the Jews. And he spake before his brethren and the army of Samaria, and said, What do these feeble Jews? will they fortify themselves? will they sacrifice? will they make an end in a day? will they revive the stones out of the heaps of the rubbish which are burned?

Sanballat's Taunt: Highlight Sanballat's mocking question, "What are these feeble Jews doing?" and the underlying contempt and disbelief in their efforts.

Why the Mockery?

Fear: The enemy fears the progress and potential of God's people.

For example, a coworker might say, "Oh, here comes the office saint, always trying to show off with their perfect work.

Must be nice to have all that divine help."

Insecurity: Mockery is often a mask for insecurity and a desperate attempt to undermine others.

For instance, a student might say, "Look at you, always talking about Jesus. Do you really think anyone cares about your Bible stories?"

Spiritual Warfare: Recognize that opposition often stems from a spiritual battle against God's work.

For example, a church leader might hear, "Why are you wasting your time with that new outreach program? No one is going to show up, and it's just going to be a failure."

II. The Discouragement of the People (Nehemiah 4:3

Nehemiah 4:3 KJV 1900

Now Tobiah the Ammonite was by him, and he said, Even that which they build, if a fox go up, he shall even break down their stone wall.

Tobiah's Discouragement: Point out Tobiah's dismissive words, "If even a fox should run against it, he would break down their stone wall!" and the intent to demoralize the Israelites.

Why the Discouragement?

Doubt: The enemy seeks to plant seeds of doubt and make us question our abilities and God's promises.

Example: A woman feels called to start a community outreach program, but her friend says, "Are you sure you're up for this? You don't have any experience in organizing events.

Maybe you should leave it to someone more qualified."

What might be said or done: The friend might frequently point out potential failures or mistakes, saying things like, "What if no one shows up? You could end up wasting a lot of time and resources."

Weariness: Opposition can lead to weariness and a desire to give up.

Example: A man is trying to balance his job, family responsibilities, and a ministry project.

His colleagues at work keep piling on extra tasks, making him stay late and miss family time.

What might be said or done: The colleagues might say, "You're always leaving early for church stuff.

Can't you just stay and help out a bit more?"

This constant pressure makes him feel exhausted and question if he should continue with the ministry.

Isolation: The enemy wants to isolate us and make us feel alone in our struggles.

Example: A young person is the only Christian in their group of friends.

Whenever they try to share their faith, their friends laugh it off or change the subject, making them feel misunderstood and alone.

What might be said or done: The friends might say things like, "Why do you always have to bring up religion?

Can't we just have fun without talking about Jesus?"

This makes the young person feel isolated and hesitant to share their faith in the future.

III. The Prayer of Nehemiah (Nehemiah 4:4-5

Nehemiah 4:4–5 KJV 1900

Hear, O our God; for we are despised: and turn their reproach upon their own head, and give them for a prey in the land of captivity: And cover not their iniquity, and let not their sin be blotted out from before thee: for they have provoked thee to anger before the builders.

Nehemiah's Response: Emphasize Nehemiah's immediate turn to prayer, seeking God's intervention and vindication.

Why Prayer?

Dependence on God: Prayer acknowledges our need for God's strength and guidance.

Spiritual Warfare: Prayer is a powerful weapon against the enemy's schemes.

Perspective Shift: Prayer helps us realign our focus and find peace amidst the storm.

IV. The Perseverance of the People (Nehemiah 4:6

Nehemiah 4:6 KJV 1900

So built we the wall; and all the wall was joined together unto the half thereof: for the people had a mind to work.

Continued Work: Highlight the Israelites' unwavering determination to continue building despite the opposition.

Why Persevere?

God's Calling: We persevere because we are fulfilling God's purpose for our lives.

God never call his people to small

It may seem small to your enemies but it’s worth

Nehemiah 4:19–21 KJV 1900

And I said unto the nobles, and to the rulers, and to the rest of the people, The work is great and large, and we are separated upon the wall, one far from another. In what place therefore ye hear the sound of the trumpet, resort ye thither unto us: our God shall fight for us. So we laboured in the work: and half of them held the spears from the rising of the morning till the stars appeared.

Strength in Unity: We find strength and encouragement in working together with other believers.

Victory in Christ: We persevere knowing that ultimate victory belongs to Christ.

Assurance of Victory: Remind them that the enemy's attacks are temporary and that ultimate victory belongs to God.

Realistic Attacks People Deal With:

Lying: Deception and false accusations that tarnish reputations.

Backbiting: Gossip and negative talk behind one's back.

Distractions: Efforts to divert focus from important tasks and goals.

Criticism: Unjust and harsh criticism that undermines confidence.

Sabotage: Deliberate actions taken to hinder progress and success.

Isolation: Attempts to alienate and separate individuals from their support systems.

Manipulation: Efforts to control or influence behavior through deceitful means.

Betrayal: Trust being broken by those who were once close or trusted.

Mockery: Ridicule and making fun of efforts, ideas, or beliefs.

Neglect: Being ignored or overlooked, leading to feelings of insignificance.

Verse for Encouragement:

"But nay, in all these things we are more than conquerors through him that loved us." (Romans 8:37, KJV)

Similar Scriptures:

Isaiah 41:10 (KJV): "Fear thou not; for I am with thee: be not dismayed; for I am thy God: I will strengthen thee; yea, I will help thee; yea, I will uphold thee with the right hand of my righteousness."

1 Peter 5:8-9 (KJV): "Be sober, be vigilant; because your adversary the devil, as a roaring lion, walketh about, seeking whom he may devour: Whom resist stedfast in the faith, knowing that the same afflictions are accomplished in your brethren that are in the world."

James 4:7 (KJV): "Submit yourselves therefore to God. Resist the devil, and he will flee from you."

Ephesians 6:12 (KJV): "For we wrestle not against flesh and blood, but against principalities, against powers, against the rulers of the darkness of this world, against spiritual wickedness in high places."

2 Corinthians 10:4-5 (KJV): "For the weapons of our warfare are not carnal, but mighty through God to the pulling down of strong holds; Casting down imaginations, and every high thing that exalteth itself against the knowledge of God, and bringing into captivity every thought to the obedience of Christ;"