Part 1
IN THIS LESSON
In this sermon, Dr. Richard Price delivers a message titled "Rumor Has It", based on Nehemiah 6:1-9. He discusses how to maintain focus on one's divine assignment despite external distractions, opposition, and negative rumors.
Key takeaways from the sermon:
Discernment of Invitations: Dr. Price emphasizes that not every invitation is an opportunity; some are distractions or traps designed to pull you away from your work. He highlights Nehemiah’s firm response: "I am engaged in a good work, so I cannot come down."
Consistency as Protection: The sermon stresses that consistency protects your calling. When you are clear about your assignment, you do not need to renegotiate your purpose every time someone tries to interrupt or distract you.
Responding to Rumors: Addressing the change in strategy by the opposition (using public rumors/scandals), Dr. Price explains that when the enemy cannot stop you privately, they often try to damage you publicly. He notes that Jesus also faced such "scandals" and that we should not leave our assignment to chase an accusation.
Defending the Work, Not the Reputation: Dr. Price advises that while it is okay to clarify a lie, you should not spend your life defending yourself. Instead, let your work and your faithfulness speak for themselves.
The Core Prayer: Focusing on Nehemiah 6:9, Dr. Price highlights that the opposition's true target is the work, not the reputation. Nehemiah’s response was to pray, "Now strengthen my hands." This serves as a powerful reminder to turn to God for strength rather than seeking to appease critics.
The message concludes with an encouragement for believers to keep "building on the wall" and to trust that God will handle the opposition in his own time.
