A Second Wall

Read

2 Chronicles 32:5 “Then Hezekiah worked hard at repairing all the broken sections of the wall, erecting towers, and constructing a second wall around the first.”

Think

In the time of King Hezekiah, cities were protected by walls that were essential for keeping out enemies. When threats loomed, Hezekiah didn’t just patch up the existing walls; he also built a second line of defense. This story is a powerful metaphor for the proactive measures we must take in our own lives to maintain personal well-being and integrity.

Think about the "walls" you have built around your life—these are the boundaries and habits you've established to protect yourself from negative influences or behaviors. Just like in Hezekiah’s day, it's crucial to regularly inspect these walls. Are there gaps or weak areas that need attention? Maybe it's skipping out on activities that keep you balanced, like exercise, prayer journaling, or spending time on a hobby.

Then, there's the idea of building a second wall. This isn't just about defense; it's about adding positive reinforcements to your lifestyle. When was the last time you introduced something new and constructive into your routine? This could be anything that enriches your life, such as engaging with inspirational media, joining a new community group, or adopting new technology that supports your goals, like app blockers (like Covenant Eyes) or wellness trackers.

By continually repairing old boundaries and erecting new ones, we can create a fortified, resilient structure in our lives. This not only protects us but also strengthens us against potential challenges. Just as Hezekiah took active steps to safeguard his city, we too must be diligent in building and maintaining our personal defenses to ensure our growth and well-being in every aspect of life.

Apply

We may have never met, but I know something about you. Your current strategy is perfectly suited for the results you are getting. Said another way, you are just as sober or free as you really want to be. If there is a weak link somewhere in your current recovery work, you need to address that immediately. Then add a fresh layer of work to your recovery program. Build a second wall of defense.

Pray

Lord, this is the day when I draw a line in the sand. I want to take my recovery to the next level. I commit to building a second wall of defense. In Jesus’ name. Amen.