Nehemiah returned to Jerusalem with the hope and vision and resources to rebuild the walls of the city. As he rallied the people and started the work, he encountered detractors who opposed rebuilding the wall.

First, opponents mocked their efforts. What they are building—even a fox climbing up on it would break down their wall of stones!

When insults failed to halt progress, Nehemiah’s enemies plotted violence. Before they know it or see us, we will be right there among them and will kill them and put an end to the work.

Learning of these threats, Nehemiah rallied his people. Not minimizing the situation, he first encouraged with vision. Don’t be afraid of them. Remember the Lord, who is great and awesome, and fight for your families, your sons and your daughters, your wives and your homes.

Then Nehemiah posted guards and armed every worker—each of the builders wore his sword at his side as he worked.

The resistance melted, and the wall stood completed in record time.

Opposition brings a variety of responses to my gut. Sometimes I want to quit, especially if the task looks daunting and I seem alone in the work. But other times, when alongside people who share an encouraging picture of the future and who join the work with me, I jump in.

I watch for these types of people. I meet very few like Nehemiah (such an outstanding leader), but I know several who approach problems with a positive mindset and a hand to help.

Always room for more of those folks in my life.

Nehemiah 4 in week forty-nine of reading the Bible cover to cover

Photo by Robert Bye