52 Days. Day 25, Facing Intimidation.

Nehemiah 4:1 (KJV) “But it came to pass, that when Sanballat heard that we builded the wall, he was wroth, and took great indignation, and mocked the Jews.” Sanballat’s name is about to start coming up quite a bit. He’s likely the governor of Samaria under the Persian Empire. He’s a Samaritan who strongly opposes the efforts to rebuild the walls. He is about to employ mockery, threats, lies, and deceit to break up the unity of the workers. However, it is important to note Nehemiah’s response when he faces opposition; he strikes the right balance. He never underestimates the danger which the opposition poses, but he never lets the opposition derail his plans. We must ever be alert to the reality of opposition, but never overcome by it. We must learn to withstand the derisive ridicule, angry hostility, and serious threats that the enemy will belch out. Intimidation means trying to frighten, scare, or pressure someone so they don’t do something - or so they give in to their demands. Don’t be intimidated! Our enemy is a bully! God has called you to this moment and you are doing a great work for the Kingdom! The pressure to stop being passionate about the things of God is real. Your enemy sees you growing in God and he’s determined to stop you!  But you’re going to make it!