Facing Opposition from Within

But when Sanballat the Horonite, Tobiah the Ammonite official, and Geshem the Arab heard of it, they mocked and ridiculed us. ‘What is this you are doing?’ they asked. ‘Are you rebelling against the king?’” – Nehemiah 2:19

It’s one thing to face opposition from those clearly outside our circle, but it’s another entirely when those we consider brothers or friends turn against us. For Nehemiah, this was a painful reality. Sanballat and Tobiah were Jews—people who, by all accounts, should have supported the rebuilding of Jerusalem. Tobiah even had strong connections with priestly families, and his name meant “Yahweh is good.” Yet, despite their ties to God’s people, both men became fierce opponents of Nehemiah’s work. Their actions remind us that sometimes, those who bear God’s name or appear close to Him might still resist His work.

This type of opposition is especially painful because betrayal from within cuts deeply. Nehemiah wasn’t just dealing with political resistance; he was wrestling with the heartbreak of betrayal from fellow Jews. We may face similar struggles in our own lives, finding that those we thought would support us—even in God’s work—turn out to be our harshest critics. Their opposition can feel like a personal attack, not only on our actions but on who we are. In such moments, we need to cling tightly to God, remembering that our real battle is not just against flesh and blood.

Nehemiah’s experience highlights a spiritual reality. As Christians, we know we face unseen spiritual enemies—forces of darkness that work against us (Ephesians 6:12). Though these attacks often come through people, we must remember that spiritual opposition is often at play. Satan loves to use those closest to us, even within the church, to discourage and derail us. This is why staying rooted in prayer and in God’s Word is essential, especially when opposition arises from unexpected places.

Nehemiah didn’t let opposition from Sanballat and Tobiah derail him. He knew that God had called him to this work, and no amount of mocking or resistance could shake his confidence. Likewise, when we face opposition, even from those within our circle, we cannot allow the pain of betrayal or criticism to distract us from the mission God has given. Instead, we must rely on God’s strength and trust that He is ultimately in control.

PRAYER

Lord, I come to You, asking for strength in the face of opposition. When I feel betrayed or attacked by those close to me, help me to remember that my battle is not against flesh and blood, but against spiritual forces that seek to undermine Your work. Strengthen my heart, Lord, and give me the wisdom to navigate these challenges. Help me to remain focused on the mission You’ve called me to, trusting that You are with me every step of the way.