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
When Nehemiah set out to rebuild the walls of Jerusalem, he faced sharp opposition from Sanballat, Tobiah, and Geshem. Their mocking question, “Will you rebel against the king?” reveals their misunderstanding and limited view of God’s authority. They believed that the highest power in the land was the king of Persia, and any effort to rebuild Jerusalem without his explicit approval would be an act of rebellion. Little did they know that the king had already given his blessing. Sanballat and Tobiah spoke from a place of ignorance, unaware that Nehemiah was acting with both the king’s permission and the authority of God Himself.
This question from Nehemiah’s enemies mirrors the attacks we face when we step out in faith to do what God has called us to do. There will always be those who question our motives, challenge our authority, or even accuse us of going against the system. But what truly matters is not the approval of men, but the authority of the King of Kings. Just as Nehemiah could confidently proceed with his mission, knowing he had the backing of the king of Persia and God’s authority, we too can move forward boldly in what God has placed on our hearts.
It’s important to remember that the enemy often speaks from a place of ignorance, just like Sanballat and Tobiah. They don’t understand God’s plan or His authority, and they certainly don’t understand the divine partnership that exists between God and His people. Nehemiah wasn’t rebelling against anyone; he was obeying the highest authority—the God of heaven. We must have the same confidence when the enemy tries to intimidate us with questions, doubts, or false accusations.
When the enemy challenges our boldness, we must be ready to stand firm, remembering that if God is for us, no human authority can stand against us. Nehemiah’s response wasn’t focused on proving his critics wrong but on staying true to the mission God gave him. He knew that the authority of the King of Heaven far surpassed any earthly ruler’s decree. We can take heart in this truth: one with God truly is a majority. If we are walking in obedience to Him, we carry the authority of the King of Kings.
PRAYER
Lord, help me to remember that Your authority is above all. When I face challenges or opposition from others, remind me that I am working under Your guidance and power. Give me the boldness to stand firm, even when others question my motives or try to intimidate me. I trust in Your divine authority, and I believe that with You on my side, no power on earth can prevail against me
