written by Joseph Murray
As we see the unified work of rebuilding the wall continue we also see increasing rise of opposition. “When Sanballat heard that we were building the wall, that he was furious and very indignant and Mocked the Jews”- 4 v 1. Many times, as we engage in unifying, community transforming work we will have direct and indirect opposition as Nehemiah also did. Among a direct attack, Sanballat and other neighboring adversaries sought to create fear, intimidation and ultimately confusion within the builders and all involved.
1.Prayer (Gods Guidance)
The first thing that Nehemiah knew to do when facing opposition was to consult the Lord in Prayer. Nehemiah understood that the burden for restoring the walls of Jerusalem was a burden from the Lord. Therefore, the opposition against the work of the wall was not simply an attack against the builders of the wall but opposition to Gods desire as well. All the work starts with, is supported and is completed with prayer.
“And I looked and arose and said to the nobles and to the officials and to the rest of the people, “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 homes. v 14.
2. All In, focused on the goal (Unity of the believers)
In v 13-14 Nehemiah engaged positioned all the families , officials and clans regardless of their status to protect openings secure the gaps during the repair of the wall. The effort would take alert focus as men both worked with one hand on their sword and the other in repair mode. Nehemiah knew that this had to be a collective effort! Like wise the attacks of our enemy will take a collective effort to protect the gaps in our community as we restore and rebuild not just physical needs but lives and hearts.
In work of restoring and rebuilding will see major opposition in many forms, maybe in the form of frustration, maybe mockery, maybe in direct opposition. Yet with prayer, unity, and being focused on the goal of achieving what God desires we can rebuild and restore. Join us as we come together “All in”, focused on the goal.
