Neh 4:3-4 Tobiah the Ammonite, who was at his side, said, “What they are building—even a fox climbing up on it would break down their wall of stones!” Hear us, our God, for we are despised. Turn their insults back on their own heads…
Whenever you step out in faith, opposition will show up. Criticism is not a sign of failure—it’s a sign that you’re doing something that matters. In Nehemiah’s day, ridicule came swiftly the moment the people began rebuilding. Tobiah’s mocking wasn’t just about stones—it was aimed at their confidence, their calling, and their courage.
You can expect criticism when you follow God’s calling. But expecting it doesn’t mean accepting it. You don’t need to let it define you, delay you, or derail you. Nehemiah didn’t argue—he prayed. He didn’t stop—he built. He didn’t respond with insults—he responded with focus. His confidence wasn’t in his work, but in his God.
Let critics talk. Let doubters doubt. Your response isn’t to convince them—your response is to continue. God’s approval matters more than man’s applause. If God has called you to build, then build—even when they say it’s weak, small, or foolish. What matters is not what they say, but what God is doing through you.
Further Readings:
2Sa 16:5-14
Mat 5:11–12
1 Pet 2:23
Blessed Weekend