“So I went to the governors of Trans-Euphrates and gave them the king’s letters. The king had also sent army officers and cavalry with me.” – Nehemiah 2:9
Whenever we set out to do something significant for God, opposition will always follow. Nehemiah experienced this firsthand when he arrived in Jerusalem. Though he had the king’s approval and even a royal escort, two men, Sanballat the Horonite and Tobiah the Ammonite, were immediately disturbed. These men were not just local officials; they were enemies of anything that would strengthen God’s people. They didn’t care about the temple or worship as long as Jerusalem remained weak and vulnerable.
This opposition is a reminder that the devil is never happy when we set out to strengthen the work of God in any way. Whether we are leading our families in faith, serving in the church, or ministering to others, there will always be opposition from those who prefer things to remain broken. Sanballat and Tobiah represent the spiritual forces that are threatened when God’s people rise up to rebuild what has been torn down. They remind us that when we choose to do God’s work, we step into a battlefield, not a playground.
But here’s the key: Nehemiah didn’t show up in his own strength. He had the authority of the king and was escorted by officers and cavalry. In the same way, when we face opposition, we’re not standing alone. We come with the authority of Jesus Christ and the support of heaven’s army. We don’t fight these battles with carnal weapons; instead, we rely on the power of prayer and God’s Word. Just as Nehemiah’s work continued despite the opposition, we too can trust that God will see us through the challenges we face.
The lesson is simple: expect opposition, but don’t fear it. When the enemy is threatened by your obedience, it’s a sign that you’re on the right track. Arm yourself with prayer, stay grounded in God’s promises, and keep moving forward. God’s work will always face resistance, but with His help, we will prevail.
PRAYER
Lord, I know that when I set out to do Your work, the enemy will try to stand in my way. Help me to remain steadfast and confident, knowing that You are with me. Strengthen me through prayer, and remind me that my battle is not against flesh and blood, but against spiritual forces. I trust in Your authority and power to see me through every challenge. Keep me focused on the work You’ve called me to do. Amen.
