Nehemiah 4:7

“But it came to pass, that when Sanballat, and Tobiah, and the Arabians, and the Ammonites, and the Ashdodites, heard that the walls of Jerusalem were made up, and that the breaches began to be stopped, then they were very wroth.”

Context:Nehemiah was a cupbearer to the king of Persia but had a deep burden for the city of Jerusalem and its broken walls. God opened a door for him to return to Jerusalem and lead the rebuilding efforts. Despite opposition and threats from surrounding enemies, Nehemiah, with God’s guidance, organised the people and began the reconstruction work.

Sanballat, Tobiah, and others:These were the adversaries of Nehemiah who opposed the rebuilding of Jerusalem’s walls. Sanballat was a governor of Samaria, Tobiah was an Ammonite official, and the Arabians, Ammonites, and Ashdodites were also involved in this opposition.

Walls made up and breaches stopped:Nehemiah and the people of Jerusalem worked diligently and managed to make progress in repairing the walls. This news reached the ears of their adversaries, and they became very angry. The opposition intensified as the rebuilding efforts gained momentum.

Lessons and applications:

• Opposition in God’s work:Whenever God’s people are engaged in doing His work, opposition and resistance can arise. The enemy may try to hinder, discourage, or intimidate God’s people. We must be prepared for opposition and rely on God’s strength and guidance to overcome it.
• Progress invites opposition:As the walls of Jerusalem were being repaired, the adversaries became more enraged. Progress in God’s work can trigger opposition because it threatens the enemy’s plans. We should not be surprised by opposition but should expect it and stand firm in our faith.
• Unity and determination:Nehemiah’s response to the opposition was to rally the people together, encouraging them to remain focused on the task at hand. Unity among God’s people is crucial when facing opposition. We should support and encourage one another, staying determined to fulfill the purposes God has given us.
• Trusting in God’s protection:Despite the threats and opposition, Nehemiah and the people did not give in to fear. They recognised that their ultimate security was in God. In times of opposition, we should trust in God’s protection and seek His wisdom in dealing with the challenges we face.
• Perseverance and prayer:Nehemiah’s response to the opposition was to pray to God for strength and protection. He did not waver in his determination to complete the work God had entrusted to him. When faced with opposition, we should persevere, relying on God’s power and seeking His guidance through prayer.

Remember, Nehemiah’s story teaches us about the importance of perseverance, unity, and trust in God in the face of opposition. May it inspire and encourage you as you continue to serve God in your own life.