"I am carrying on a great project, and cannot come down." (Nehemiah 6:2-3)
You would think that everyone would appreciate the efforts of Nehemiah, in his work to rebuild the wall around Jerusalem. It was a labor of love for both the glory of God, and the protection of the people of Israel. But not everyone was supportive, in fact there were those (because of selfishness and jealousy) who were set on hindering the work, even hoping it would stop.
If we read the book of Nehemiah, we see that he put the will of God ahead, of what other people thought, or did. Nehemiah was a constant prayer warrior. He fought his battles on his knees before God. And God directed his actions. It was God's will that the wall be restored, and through the faithfulness of Nehemiah, and his faithful workers, this became a reality.
The question still remains; Why is there always oposition to the work of God? Many a faithful serviant has faced unexpectant conflict, in the process of accomplishing Kingdom work. Well the Bible makes it clear, that we have an enemy that is like "a roaring lion, looking for someone to devour." (1 Peter 5:8)
Satan will always try to work through people, to cause conflict and develop obstacles, in accomplishing kingdom work. Whenever you do something for the Lord, expect that there is going to be trouble.
To me this is evidence that Satan is alive and well.
But what Nehemiah knew in his heart, John reminds us of, in 1 John 4:4 "Greater us He that is in you, than he who is in the world." No matter what the battle is in our service for the Lord, if it is the Lord's will, that a certain project of program is accomplished, it will be accomplished. Because as Paul said: "If God is for us, who can be against us." (Romans 8:31) GP
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