Pray and Work, the Inspiring Example of NehemiahNäide

Opposition

“When Sanballat the Horonite and Tobiah the Ammonite servant heard this, it displeased them greatly that someone had come to seek the welfare of the people of Israel.” (Nehemiah 2:10)

Yesterday we saw how “the gracious hand of God” made Nehemiah's plans work. The king also supported him. He was given letters of recommendation, and even army officers and horsemen. But not everyone was pleased with Nehemiah's project. A few influential leaders of neighboring people groups were very displeased. They probably felt their status and economic power were threatened. But they didn't just have reasonable objections to Nehemiah's arrival. Rather, the wording in Nehemiah 2:10 indicates hatred: “It displeased them greatly that someone had come to seek the welfare of the people of Israel.” These men absolutely did not want the situation of the Israelites to improve. Further on in Nehemiah's account, we can read how they opposed the rebuilding of Jerusalem with all their might.

Wishing the worst for someone, opposing their plans out of hatred ... this was not only an issue in Nehemiah's time; it is still a problem today. Maybe you experienced this yourself; possibly even when you wanted to help others! How do you deal with this kind of opposition?