Detoured by Distractions - October 6, 2024

First Baptist Arlington Sermons

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.