Building on the Wall:
The Power of Shoulder-to-Shoulder Leadership
In Nehemiah’s time, Jerusalem’s walls lay in ruins — a constant reminder of defeat and an open invitation to the enemy. The task of rebuilding was daunting, but Nehemiah, empowered by God’s vision, rallied the people. Every family, leader, and skilled worker took ownership of the section directly in front of their own home.
“So we built the wall… for the people had a mind to work” (Nehemiah 4:6).
They didn’t labour in isolation; they worked shoulder to shoulder, each playing their part in the greater mission. The unity of purpose and the willingness to act were as vital as the stones themselves.
Today, our “wall” is not built of limestone and mortar but of faith, integrity, relationships, and influence. God has entrusted each of us with a portion to guard — our businesses, our families, and our spheres of influence. Some are called to leadership in the trades, others in ministry, education, or creative industries. Yet all of us are part of the same Kingdom work.
Ecclesiastes reminds us, “Two are better than one… for if they fall, one will lift up his companion” (Ecclesiastes 4:9-10). Shoulder-to-shoulder leadership means encouraging fellow believers, sharing resources, praying together, and refusing to allow division to weaken the wall.
Your business is more than a means of livelihood; it is a God-appointed position of stewardship.
The Apostle Paul’s words still echo for us today: “Be on your guard; stand firm in the faith; be courageous; be strong” (1 Corinthians 16:13).
Guarding your part of the wall requires integrity in daily decisions, wise use of resources, and obedience to the Lord’s direction. It means being alert to the subtle ways the enemy may attempt to erode your witness — through compromise, complacency, or isolation. Just as Nehemiah’s builders worked with tools in one hand and weapons in the other (Nehemiah 4:17), we too must be ready to both build and defend what God has entrusted to us.
At Stones & Shoulders, we believe that building together is the only way to complete the work God has called us to do. This is not about competition, but completion. It’s about seeing the gaps and stepping in to strengthen them, whether they belong to our own “section” or to a brother or sister in Christ. When we work united in vision, empowered by prayer, and anchored in God’s Word, the wall will stand strong , not for our recognition, but for His glory.
Reflection Questions
What specific “section of the wall” has God entrusted to you in your business, ministry, or community?
Who is currently standing shoulder to shoulder with you, and how can you encourage or support them this week?
Are there any gaps in your leadership, character, or relationships that you need to repair?
How can you actively help strengthen another believer’s “section of the wall” this month?