The Pulpit Commentary on Nehemiah 4:9

The Pulpit Commentary · Joseph S. Exell and contributors · Public domain

Prayer and watchfulness.

"Nevertheless we made our prayer unto God, and set a watch," etc.

I. The Christian's PERILS. His enemies are—

1. Numerous. Satan and his angels, his own corruptions, the world.

2. Diverse. Different in nature, and mode of attack; assuming different forms; appealing in turn to every passion and principle of our nature.

3. Insidious. "The wiles of the devil." He can take the form of "an angel of light." Evil often appears as good. Danger lurks where we should least suspect it: in needful occupations, in lawful pleasures, in the society and influence of dearest friends.

4. Intent on our destruction. "Seeking whom he may devour." Our highest interests, our eternal well-being, are imperilled.

II. The Christian's SAFEGUARDS.

1. Prayer. To him who is mightier than our mightiest foes; who has a perfect knowledge of them, and of our weaknesses; whose eye is ever upon them and us; who loves us and desires our safety; who has promised help and victory to those who call upon him. In his strength alone can we conquer.

2. Watchfulness. Habitual vigilance, for our foes may spring upon us from unexpected quarters; special watchfulness "over against them" (as the last words of the text should be rendered). Where from experience we have learned that our weakness and the enemy's strength lie.

3. The two combined. God will protect those who watch as well as pray. Prayer aids watching, and watching prayer. "Watch unto prayer." Prayer without watchfulness is presumption. Watchfulness without prayer, sinful self-confidence. Each without the other is sure to fail. Both together will insure deliverance.

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