Sanballat was a formidable enemy; he did not give up easily. When he heard the building of the city walls was going forward in spite of his objections, “he was angry and in a great rage, and he ridiculed the Jews” (Nehemiah 4:1). The more they built, the angrier he became.

Maybe you know people who become angry when others try to make progress, better themselves, or do something new and different. Why would people become angry when others try to make progress, better themselves, or do something new and different.Why would people become angry about your progress? Because people who do not want to progress themselves do not want you to progress either. They would rather judge you critically than face the fact that they do not really want to make the effort necessary to improve their lives or follow their dreams. Instead of investing in their futures and pursuing their destinies, they prefer to become angry and act as though something is wrong with you. That way, they do not have to consider the possibility that something may be wrong with them. It is called “blame shifting,” and people who do it do not want to be blamed for not making right choices so they shift the focus to you and try to discredit you.

Sanballat and his buddies flew into “a great rage” because Nehemiah was leading an effort to help people and improve the community. In your efforts to help yourself and the people around you, do not be surprised if you meet with someone who becomes angry and critical about it. Just stand through that storm; hold your peace; and keep doing what you believe in your heart to be right. Next Week—“What A Mess!

By faith I keep pressing on!