Living Water #696

LIVING WATER – EPISODE 696 || 29TH APRIL, 2026

By Solomon Uwumbolibe Mensah

OVERCOMING OPPOSITION WHILE REBUILDING

Scripture Reading: Nehemiah 2:19-20

“But when Sanballat the Horonite, Tobiah the Ammonite official and Geshem the Arab heard about it, they mocked and ridiculed us. “What is this you are doing?” they asked. “Are you rebelling against the king?”

I answered them by saying, “The God of heaven will give us success. We his servants will start rebuilding, but as for you, you have no share in Jerusalem or any claim or historic right to it.”

After Nehemiah inspired the people to rebuild the walls of Jerusalem, enemies quickly arose to discourage and intimidate them. Sanballat, Tobiah, and Geshem mocked the effort and questioned Nehemiah's motives. Their goal was not merely to criticize the project but to weaken the resolve of God's people. Nehemiah's response teaches believers how to handle opposition, maintain faith, and continue God's work despite criticism and resistance.

1. Expect Opposition When Doing God's Work: As soon as the rebuilding project began, Sanballat, Tobiah, and Geshem appeared to challenge it. This reminds us that opposition is often a sign that meaningful progress is being made. The enemy rarely attacks those who are doing nothing, but when people begin advancing God's purposes, resistance frequently emerges. Believers should not be surprised when criticism, misunderstanding, or obstacles arise while pursuing God's calling. Opposition is not necessarily evidence that we are on the wrong path; often it confirms that we are moving in the right direction.

2. Do Not Be Discouraged by Mockery: The enemies mocked and ridiculed the Jews in an attempt to undermine their confidence. Mockery is one of the enemy's favorite weapons because it attacks morale and seeks to create doubt. Many God-given dreams have been abandoned because people allowed criticism to become greater than their faith. Nehemiah refused to let ridicule determine his actions. Believers must learn that the opinions of critics cannot outweigh the promises of God. When God has given a vision, we must remain focused on His approval rather than human ridicule.

3. Recognize the Enemy's Strategy: The accusation, "Are you rebelling against the king?" was designed to create fear and suspicion. The enemies wanted the builders to believe that they would face punishment if they continued. Enemy  often uses fear, false accusations, and intimidation to stop God's people from advancing. Understanding the enemy's tactics helps us remain vigilant and steadfast. Not every criticism is valid, and not every accusation deserves a response. Wisdom enables us to discern when opposition is simply an attempt to distract us from God's assignment.

4. Place Your Confidence in Go: Nehemiah responded with remarkable faith by declaring, "The God of heaven will give us success." He did not place his confidence in human resources, political connections, or military strength. His confidence rested entirely in God's power and faithfulness. True success in God's work comes not from human ability alone but from divine assistance. When believers trust God's promises, they can face opposition with courage, knowing that the outcome ultimately depends on God's blessing and not on the approval of critics.

5. Commit Yourself to the Work: Nehemiah said, "We his servants will start rebuilding." His response demonstrated determination and commitment. He did not waste time arguing with the opposition or defending himself endlessly. Instead, he remained focused on the mission God had given him. One of the greatest responses to criticism is continued obedience. God's servants are called to work faithfully, trusting Him to handle the results. Progress is made not by debating every opponent but by persistently doing what God has commanded.

6. Understand Your Identity and Authority: Nehemiah reminded the enemies that they had no share, claim, or historic right in Jerusalem. He understood the covenant relationship between God and His people. Knowing our identity in God gives us confidence when facing challenges. The believer belongs to God, has been called for His purposes, and has been given authority through Christ. When we understand who we are in God, we are less likely to be intimidated by those who seek to discourage or oppose us.

Nehemiah teaches us that opposition should never stop God's work. We must expect resistance, refuse to be discouraged by mockery, recognize the enemy's strategies, place our confidence in God, remain committed to our assignment, and stand firm in our identity as God's servants. The same God who gave success to Nehemiah is still empowering His people today. No criticism, accusation, or obstacle can prevent God's purposes from being fulfilled when His people trust Him and continue rebuilding.

 Prayer: Heavenly Father, thank You for the example of Nehemiah. Help us to remain faithful when opposition arises. Give us courage when we are criticized, wisdom when we are challenged, and faith to trust that You will give us success. Strengthen our hands for the work You have called us to do, and keep our eyes fixed on Your purpose. May we never be distracted by the voices of opposition but remain steadfast in serving You. In Jesus' name, Amen.