Against All Opposition

Who is dressed in red, patrols retail establishments, is mostly shunned, but sometimes featured in our local news for being verbally and physically abused by members of the public? The life of a safe distancing ambassador is hard, and it is easy to see why. It is difficult to be popular when you are responsible for enforcing inconvenient restrictions on social interactions amid the COVID-19 pandemic. Safe distancing ambassadors move forward with their responsibilities every day, despite any ‘opposition’, because they know they have to do what is right.

Nehemiah and the Jews faced far more severe circumstances in their time. As they rebuilt the walls of Jerusalem, they experienced ridicule and threats of violence from their enemies. These were not one-off threats; they grew more intense as the Jews made progress. Angry words soon turned into repeated plots of ambush and murder as the rebuilding of Jerusalem’s walls reached the halfway mark.

Can you imagine what it would be like in the shoes of Nehemiah and his fellow Jews? In our modern comforts, few can relate to the idea of having to deal with mortal enemies who are opposed to our views and missions. Our enemies are numerous, and they will do their best to frustrate our efforts. But as Christians, we are, in fact, engaged in spiritual warfare. Our beliefs, values, and mission – believing in Jesus, pursuing holy living, and fulfilling the Great Commission – are at direct odds with the present worldly culture that focuses on self-centric living without God in the picture.

What this means is that we must fiercely guard ourselves as we continuously build and rebuild our faith and holiness throughout changing times. Today’s opposition may take on different forms. Not all are violent. Some actually tempt us to take the ‘easier’ path. Others are even spoken of as advice with ‘good intentions’ from pre-believing friends and loved ones. The experience of Nehemiah prepares us for a world hostile to our beliefs. From the difficulties of COVID-19 to workplace ethical compromises to family challenges – we stand ready for any opposition that may arise.

Just as safe distancing ambassadors champion health and safety, as Christ’s ambassadors, let us remember our sacred responsibility to live out His Word in the power of the Holy Spirit!

Pray Together

Believers today have the Holy Spirit who empowers us to overcome all forms of opposition, be it persecution or temptation. Let us pray for His presence and for the courage to continue abiding in holiness!