Therefore I stationed some of the people . . . posting them by families. (Neh. 4:13)
Expanded Passage: Nehemiah 4:10-15
Ex-governor of Alaska and 2008 vice-presidential candidate, Sarah Palin, made the term “mama grizzly” part of her persona. It symbolizes the fervent love and fierce determination to protect one’s offspring. The first rule in bear country is never get between a mama bear and her cubs.
Nehemiah knew the power of a parent or spouse’s love when he strategically positioned guards around the unfinished walls of Jerusalem. He stationed them outside their own homes. “Don’t be afraid of [the enemy]. Remember the Lord, who is great and awesome, and fight for your families, your sons and your daughters, your wives and your homes” (Neh. 4:14). So when Israel’s enemies learned of Nehemiah’s strategy, they were frustrated and the work on the wall continued without incident.
“Remember the Lord” loves you with a love far greater than a mama grizzly. And he is infinitely more powerful than any 1,500-pound bear! The prophet Samuel warned God’s enemies, “All those gathered here will know that it is not by sword or spear that the Lord saves; for the battle is the Lord’s, and he will give all of you into our hands” (1 Sam. 17:47).
With the fervent love and fierce determination that you would protect your spouse, children, or loved ones, God will fight for your spiritual life. Woe to the enemy who gets between you and your God!
“Remember the Lord, who is great and awesome” (Neh. 4:14).
James N. Watkins is an author, editor, and ordained minister in The Wesleyan Church.
© 2026 Wesleyan Publishing House. Reprinted from Light from the Word. Used by permission. Scriptures taken from the Holy Bible, New International Version®, NIV®.
