When you step out and do something God has called you to do, expect the critics to follow close behind you. You may even run into people who will forcibly try to stop you from completing your task. Nehemiah models for us how to handle opposition to God’s plan.
In Nehemiah 4, the remnant of Jewish people have begun rebuilding the wall around Jerusalem according to God’s plan. Almost immediately the critics show up with taunts: “What are these feeble Jews doing (4:2, NASB),” and “Even what they are building—if a fox should jump on it, he would break their stone wall down (3).”
Nehemiah’s response is to turn to God: “Hear, O our God, how we are despised! Return their reproach on their own heads and give them up for plunder in a land of captivity. Do not forgive their iniquity and let not their sin be blotted out before You, for they have demoralized the builders (4-5).” After Nehemiah cries out to God, work continues on the wall, “for the people had a mind to work (6).”
When their opponents see that their words didn’t stop the work, they resort to physically stopping them. “All of them conspired together to come and fight against Jerusalem and to cause a disturbance in it (8).” Their enemies are determined to “kill them and put a stop to the work (11).”
When Nehemiah learns about this, he stations guards around the wall and arms the builders. Yet they were still fearful of an attack. Nehemiah then spoke to the nobles, officials, and workers, “Do not be afraid of them; remember the Lord who is great and awesome, and fight for your brothers, your sons, your daughters, your wives and your houses (14).” The work continued and they remained vigilant of a potential attack.
When the critics throw words at you and try to stop what you are called to do, remain focused on God. Do not let them demoralize you, but let God’s Word strengthen you. If you meet opposition, remain determined to defend your work and maintain a heart for God and His work. Remain vigilant and do not be discouraged.
But the Jews who disbelieved stirred up the minds of the Gentiles and embittered them against the brethren. Therefore they spent a long time there speaking boldly with reliance upon the Lord, who was testifying to the word of His grace, granting that signs and wonders be done by their hands. Acts 14:2-3, NASB
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