말보다 말씀! 빚보다 빛!

[Key Verse]
“Then I said to the nobles, the officials, and the rest of the people: ‘The work is extensive and spread out, and we are widely separated from each other along the wall. Wherever you hear the sound of the trumpet, join us there. Our God will fight for us!’” (Nehemiah 4:19–20)

[Our Story]
Not long after our church was planted, I began a Bible study. With the conviction that I needed to teach the Word, I started from Genesis and went through the scriptures in order. Having taught the Old Testament for over ten years at the seminary, I already had resources prepared for each book. I organized a chart I had received during prayer and began to teach. To those attending, this approach must have felt fresh. The news about the Bible study spread quickly. Within three months, more than 15 people were attending regularly. Considering various circumstances, I decided that members of other Korean churches in the Austin area would not be allowed to join. Still, I received a call from a local pastor accusing me of taking his church members. I specifically explained that this was not the case. I also reiterated many times during Bible study that those attending other churches were not permitted to join. Nonetheless, damaging rumors began to circulate throughout the Austin community. Despite the interference, I could not abandon the calling to teach the Word of God. Now I can talk about it calmly, but at the time, it required much patience and time to be freed from such hindrances.

[Bible Story]
Nehemiah chapters 3 and 4 describe how Nehemiah continued rebuilding Jerusalem’s wall despite the opposition of his enemies. His return to Jerusalem was full of emotion and gratitude—a long-awaited homecoming from exile. Upon arrival, Nehemiah led the Israelites in repairing the city wall and gates. The list of those who participated shows how many people were involved and how crucial their help was. Nehemiah wisely assigned tasks according to each person’s gifts and skills, distributing the work accordingly. But then came opposition (Nehemiah 4:1–3). From the north, Sanballat and the Samaritans; from the east, Tobiah the Ammonite; from the south, Arabs; and from the west, the people of Ashdod—all sought to stop Judah’s progress. They didn’t want to see the Israelites prosper. Nehemiah responded as he always did: through prayer and dependence on God (Nehemiah 4:4–6). Yet, their persistent and cunning interference started to sway some of the people (Nehemiah 4:7–12). Rumors spread that the wall would never be completed, and threats of violence grew stronger. Even then, Nehemiah did not stoop to the enemy’s level. Instead, he strengthened the people's defenses, encouraged them, and reminded them of a deeper truth: “Our God will fight for us.” (Nehemiah 4:13–23). This was the turning point—the moment they broke free from the grip of interference.

[Your Story]
Have you ever experienced interference while trying to carry out something important? How did you respond? What helped you rise above persistent and calculated opposition? Have you done anything to be free from it? When rumors and schemes circulate, it can be devastating. Yet, responding in kind only multiplies the damage. Instead, we are called to gather wisdom with our families and church communities, to encourage one another. This is the power and value of “together.” So today, rather than being discouraged by opposition, I pray you will gather wisdom with those around you and break free from it.

“And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to his purpose.” (Romans 8:28)

With blessings,
Pastor Hyung Joong Kim

Copyright© 2025 by Hyung Joong Kim