S – From that day on, half of my men did the work while the other half held spears, shields, bows, and armor. The officers supported all the people of Judah, ¹⁷ who were rebuilding the wall. The laborers who carried the loads worked with one hand and held a weapon with the other.

Nehemiah 4:16–17 CSB

O – Commentary:

We must watch always against spiritual enemies, and not expect that our warfare will be over till our work is ended. The word of God is the sword of the Spirit, which we ought to have always at hand, and never to have to seek for it, either in our labours, or in our conflicts, as Christians. Every true Christian is both a labourer and a soldier, working with one hand, and fighting with the other. Good work is likely to go on with success, when those who labour in it, make a business of it. And Satan fears to assault the watchful Christian; or, if attacked, the Lord fights for him.

Matthew Henry’s Concise Commentary 

A – Each day we must do the work set before us physically and spiritually.  There are no days off.  Also, we must put on the armor of God knowing there will be spiritual warfare.  The image of tool in one hand and sword in other is a great snapshot of our approach.  

R – Heavenly Father, you alone are worthy of the highest praise.  Equip us today with the tools and weapons to serve and fight.  Give us the discernment to be led by your spirit and the tenacity to stand strong in spiritual warfare.  You already assured us the victory – let us do all today from that vantage point.