Stone Walls — Standing Firm in the Face of Opposition

Al Felder
Sep 28
2 min read

“The remnant that are left of the captivity there in the province are in great affliction and reproach: the wall of Jerusalem also is broken down, and the gates thereof are burned with fire.”

— Nehemiah 1:3

Nehemiah’s Mission

When Nehemiah heard that Jerusalem’s walls were in ruins, his heart broke. He wept, prayed, and resolved to act. With the king’s permission, he returned to lead the people in rebuilding the walls. In just 52 days, despite opposition and adversity, the wall was finished.

This is more than history—it’s a lesson in faith, courage, and perseverance.

Opposition Comes in Many Forms

Nehemiah’s enemies—Sanballat, Tobiah, and others—did everything they could to stop the work. They tried intimidation (accusing the Jews of rebellion), ridicule (mocking their efforts), threats (plotting attacks), discouragement (spreading fear), division (rich exploiting poor), distraction (calling Nehemiah to waste time in meetings), slander (accusing him of treason), and treachery (setting traps to make him look weak).

These tactics sound familiar, don’t they? Even today, God’s people face ridicule, lies, distractions, and spiritual attacks.

Nehemiah’s Response

What made Nehemiah successful was not just his leadership—but his faith:

He prayed first before acting.
He trusted God rather than arguing with critics.
He focused on the work, refusing to waste time on those who mocked him.
He organized wisely, splitting duties between workers and guards.
He confronted sin among his people, ensuring unity.
He stood bold, refusing to hide in fear.

Nehemiah showed that opposition doesn’t have to stop God’s work—it can actually sharpen our resolve.

Lessons for Us Today

As Christians, we are called to be like stone walls—firm, steady, and unshaken by the enemy. Here are some lessons we can apply:

Expect opposition. When you serve God, resistance will come.
Pray first. Don’t let fear or anger lead you—let prayer guide you.
Don’t waste time on mockers. Focus on God’s work, not on critics.
Stay united. A divided people cannot build God’s kingdom.
Be bold. Stand firm in faith even when others try to intimidate or slander you.

Conclusion

Nehemiah and the Jews rebuilt the walls in record time because they trusted God more than they feared man. In the same way, we must hold fast in the face of opposition, knowing that the Lord is with us.

When the world tries to tear us down, may we rise as living stone walls—built on the foundation of Christ.