Nehemiah had a grand task ahead of him. He was looking to rebuild the city of Jerusalem. Much of the wall and many of the gates had been destroyed. God put it in his heart to rebuild the city and the people of God.
The resources were slim, and the people were in shambles. More than that, there was significant opposition to what Nehemiah was trying to build. Sanballat was angry and wanted to stop the rebuilding of the city. He gathered others against Nehemiah and the Jews to attempt to stop them, even threatening them. In this passage, we see five things we can do to build what God has called us to in the face of opposition.
God has called us all to build something. He has called us to build the church, families, finances, careers, and the kingdom of God. As we build what God wants us to create, here are five tips on how to build despite opposition from Nehemiah 4.
#1 Build Despite Opposition
When Nehemiah faced the opposition, we read in Nehemiah 4:6, “So we built the wall.” Nehemiah saw the opposition, and he didn’t let it stop him. He knew what God wanted of him and decided he wouldn’t let others stop him.
#2 Pray to God for Power
He also prayed for God’s power. He knew that he couldn’t face opposition alone. In Nehemiah 4:9, they prayed to God for help when they saw the opposition.
#3 Guard what you are Building
Nehemiah also guarded what he and the Israelites were building—chapter 4 talks about setting guards at night to protect what they had built. Often, people build marriages, friendships, ministries, and finances and forget to tend to them. We need to be constantly on watch to guard what we have built.
#4 Do not Fear the Enemy
When Nehemiah was building, he did not fear the enemy. A lot of people are crippled by fear when they face opposition. Nehemiah had reasons to be afraid. Sanballat and others physically threatened him. Despite these things, he kept building.
#5 Rally Together to Build
Nehemiah did not build alone. In chapter three, we see that they all built side by side. They had a plan that if attacked, they would blow a trumpet and “rally” to that spot.
The Christian life isn’t meant to be done alone. If you are a Christian, you are part of the universal church but have also been put into a local church. God has placed people in your life to help you grow in your faith and the things God has called you to build.
Think About It
What area of life is God calling you to build or rebuild right now?
What opposition are you facing while trying to make God’s Kingdom?
Which areas must you focus on as you create in the face of opposition?
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