When Opposition Comes: What Nehemiah Taught Me About Purpose and Pushback

Have you ever tried to start something new—maybe launch a business, pursue a dream, or step into something you truly felt God was calling you to? If so, I can almost guarantee you’ve run into opposition.

Whether it’s stepping into a new relationship, beginning an educational pursuit, or following a divine nudge toward purpose, resistance always seems to come. And often, it doesn’t come from your enemies—it comes from the people closest to you.

It’s the well-meaning friends who project fear.

The family members who doubt your abilities.

The ones who “just want you to be realistic” or say “God told me…” when you know good and well what He already said to you.

Some will tell you horror stories of failure from someone they know. Others will speak death over your dream, pointing out all your shortcomings and why you’re “not ready.” Most people are simply uncomfortable with change—especially when it’s happening in someone they’re used to staying the same.

And still… you’re called.

Thankfully, this isn’t new. Search for quotes about opposition and you’ll find hundreds. Resistance comes for anyone walking in purpose. Here are a few to lighten the mood:

“Success makes so many people hate you. I wish it wasn’t that way.”

– Marilyn Monroe

“Don’t be distracted by criticism. Remember, the only taste of success some people have is when they take a bite out of you.”

– Zig Ziglar

“Behind every successful person lies a pack of haters.”

– Unknown

“Haters gonna hate… shake it off.”

– Taylor Swift

This morning during my Bible study, I found myself in the book of Nehemiah—and it hit differently this time. (Quick note: I encourage you to read chapters 1–6 for the full picture, but here’s the short version.)

Nehemiah’s heart broke for Jerusalem. Though the temple had been rebuilt under Ezra, the walls and gates of the city were still destroyed and burning. With the king’s blessing and God’s prompting, Nehemiah set out to rebuild what was broken.

When he arrived and saw the devastation, his conviction deepened. He didn’t just talk about the problem—he mobilized people to solve it. Priests, Levites, goldsmiths, merchants, families—ordinary folks came together to rebuild the city. It was a beautiful, God-ordained collaboration.

But even with divine backing and strong community, the opposition came. Hard.

Here’s what they faced:

• Mockery and ridicule.

• Furious enemies who threatened to attack.

• Internal discouragement and doubt.

• Financial strain and exploitation.

  
  

  They worked so hard, they began hemorrhaging money. Some took out loans, sold land, and slipped into debt—leaders even began selling people into slavery.

It was intense.

But do you know what stood out to me? Even with all that resistance… they kept building.

And how did they do it?

Through prayer, perseverance, and preparedness.

Nehemiah didn’t move without prayer. Every decision, every pivot, every plea for help started with him going before God. He cried out for strength, strategy, and favor.

They didn’t just pray—they persevered. Even when threatened by attack, they kept working. Even when discouraged, they encouraged one another. They refused to back down from what God had called them to do.

And they were prepared. When the threats grew stronger, Nehemiah posted guards. The people worked with one hand and held a weapon in the other. They stayed alert. They stayed aligned. They were spiritually and practically ready.

That encouraged me today. Because when you’re walking in purpose, the enemy will resist. But that resistance doesn’t mean you’re on the wrong path—it often means you’re exactly where God wants you.

So if you’re facing criticism, discouragement, or even financial strain while pursuing your God-given assignment—know this:

You’re in good company.

Pray.

Persevere.

Prepare.

And above all… keep building.

Just like Nehemiah.

Love,

Brave Heart