ODB: Look to God
September 17, 2026
READ: Nehemiah 4:6-14
By ourselves we will not be able to rebuild the wall. . . . Remember the Lord, who is great and awesome. Nehemiah 4:10, 14 esv
Elise felt the panic rising. The book layout was due the next day, but the printer had rejected the photos. It could take days to sort it out.
“Don’t worry,” said her husband, Sam. “Let’s ask God for help. Then we’ll work through the night. This software might help us fix the photos quickly.”
As they prayed, Elise started to feel more assured. Just keep looking to God, she told herself. With this God-given peace of mind and Sam’s practical tip, she went to work-and completed the task in time.
As she did so, Elise recalled the Israelites’ mammoth task of rebuilding their city wall (Nehemiah 4). As if it wasn’t difficult enough, enemies mocked them and conspired to sabotage their work. But Nehemiah encouraged them to keep looking to God. “By ourselves we will not be able to rebuild the wall,” Judah said, but Nehemiah replied, “Remember the Lord, who is great and awesome.” (vv. 10, 14 esv). Then he deployed the men to work on the wall and guard against attackers, with leaders behind them (v. 16). He also encouraged them, saying, “Our God will fight for us” (v. 20).
Whenever we face overwhelming challenges, let’s keep looking to God for help and strength. We can pray for wisdom to find practical solutions, take the necessary steps, and trust in God for the outcome-whatever it might be.
— Leslie Koh
What challenges are you facing? What will help you keep your eyes on God, and what will you pray for?
All-powerful, all-loving God, no matter how big my task, I can rely on Your help and strength. Please teach me to keep trusting in You.
Source: Our Daily Bread
