The people under Nehemiah’s leadership had a mind to work. They knew what they had to do, and they were doing it. Though their enemies tried to discourage and distract them from the work, they maintained their focus, and they kept going.

Halfway through their work, discouragement sets in as their strength begins to fail. Isn’t that what all of us have to contend with? The problem is not in starting for many, but rather in seeing the work to the end. The start is always exciting, and we jump right in and give it our all. As we progress and see growth, we are so pumped up to keep the work going. When resistance comes in and our progress begins to slow down, we may push harder but if the progress is not as expected, discouragement will set in.

Some rest and a good meal may look simple, but this can go a long way in keeping discouragement at bay. If you have been giving it all that you have and your strength begins to fail, slow down take some rest and a good meal, the results will amaze you.

Remember Elijah? Right after his great victory against the prophets of Baal, Jezebel threatens him and Elijah is afraid, and he runs for his life. He is so discouraged that he begs God to just let him die. God does not answer him, but rather feeds him. God provides a shade for Elijah to sleep and rest, and an Angel provides food and bread for him to eat.

The rest and food gives him the strength to travel for another 40 days.

Are you tired and discouraged? Slow down, take some rest and have a good meal.