Don't Stop the Work: Persevering Through Opposition

In life, we often find ourselves on the cusp of breakthrough, only to face unexpected obstacles that threaten to derail our progress. Whether in our personal lives, families, or communities, it can feel like every step forward is met with two steps back. But what if these challenges are not meant to stop us, but to strengthen us?

The story of Nehemiah rebuilds the walls of Jerusalem offers profound insights into persevering through opposition. Nehemiah, a cupbearer to the king, received news that his homeland was in distress, with its walls torn down and its people struggling. Moved by compassion, he sought and received favor from the king to return and rebuild.

However, Nehemiah's mission was not without its critics. As soon as he arrived, he faced opposition from local governors who were "displeased that someone had come to seek the welfare of the Israelites." This reaction may seem puzzling – why would anyone be upset about someone wanting to help? Yet it reveals a truth about human nature: not everyone will celebrate your calling or support your mission.

Nehemiah's response to this opposition provides a powerful lesson. He declared, "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." This bold statement reminds us of two crucial truths:

1. Our success ultimately comes from God, not human approval.
2. We must be clear about our purpose and not let others derail us from it.

As the work began, the opposition intensified. Nehemiah and his team faced ridicule, threats, and attempts to create disturbances. Yet through it all, Nehemiah's strategy remained consistent: pray and plan. He turned to God in prayer, seeking divine protection and guidance. Simultaneously, he took practical steps to defend the work, arming the builders so they could work with "one hand and hold a weapon in the other."

This balanced approach of faith and action serves as a model for us today. We're called to trust God completely while also using the wisdom and resources He's given us. It's not either/or, but both/and.

The opposition didn't stop at external threats. Nehemiah also faced internal challenges, including an attempt to lure him into sin under the guise of protection. This reminds us to stay spiritually vigilant, discerning between good advice and godly advice. Not everything that seems helpful aligns with God's will for our lives.

Perhaps one of the most poignant moments in Nehemiah's story is his response to those who tried to distract him with meetings and discussions. His reply was simple yet profound: "I am carrying on a great project and cannot go down. Why should the work stop while I leave it and go down to you?"

In our hyper-connected world, this message resonates deeply. How often do we let less important matters distract us from the essential work God has called us to do? Nehemiah's focus challenges us to prioritize what truly matters and not get sidetracked by every invitation or debate that comes our way.

The narrative of Nehemiah reminds us that opposition often comes in waves. Just when one challenge is overcome, another arises. Yet the work continued, and remarkably, the walls were rebuilt in just 52 days. This rapid progress stands as a testament to what can be accomplished when a community unites around a God-given vision, refusing to be deterred by obstacles.

While Nehemiah's story is set in ancient times, its lessons are timeless. Today, we might not be rebuilding physical walls, but we are all called to build something – whether it's our faith, our families, our communities, or our character. And in all these areas, we can expect to face opposition.

The message is clear: Don't stop the work. The work of sharing the gospel, making disciples, and living out our faith in tangible ways is too important to be halted by criticism, threats, or distractions. We're reminded that "we can do all things through Christ who strengthens us" (Philippians 4:13).

Moreover, we're encouraged by the promise that the work God has begun in us, He will carry on to completion (Philippians 1:6). This assurance doesn't mean the path will be easy, but it does mean that ultimate success is guaranteed if we remain faithful.

In closing, let's reflect on the words of Jesus, who faced the ultimate opposition yet triumphed over it. Even when it seemed the work had been stopped – as Jesus hung on the cross and was laid in the tomb – Sunday morning revealed that the work of salvation could not be thwarted. Jesus is still alive, still empowering us, still walking with us.

So, whatever you're building, whatever opposition you're facing, remember: the work can't be stopped if it's aligned with God's purposes. Your perseverance matters. Your faithfulness counts. Don't give up, don't back down, and don't stop the work. For in due season, you will reap if you do not grow weary (Galatians 6:9).

Let this be an encouragement to press on, to keep building, to keep serving, and to keep loving – even when it's hard, even when you face ridicule or threats, even when it seems like progress is slow. The God who rebuilt Jerusalem's walls through Nehemiah is the same God who is working through you today. Trust in His provision, lean on His strength, and don't stop the work He's called you to do. The breakthrough might be just around the corner.