But now, O God, strengthen my hands.

Nehemiah 6:9, For all of them were trying to frighten us, thinking, "They will become discouraged with the work and it will not be done." But now, O God, strengthen my hands.

We know that fear is the opposite of faith, and that discouragement is a favorite tool of the enemy of our soul. As we seek first Jesus today, we can use these wonderful "arrow prayers" that Nehemiah gives us. Before he ever stood before the king, he prayed and fasted, and we know that as he stood before the king, before this work ever started, he prayed to the God of heaven. And we know that we can use these prayers no matter what we face!

We thank You for the encouragement of scripture; we can call upon You in the closet and in fasting, and also at any time we need Your strength!