Nehemiah and the Jews living in Jerusalem resolved together to rebuild it’s walls.  Soon after, there was enemy pushback by three characters.

“But when Sanballat, Tobiah, and Geshem the Arab heard of our plan, they scoffed contemptuously. “What are you doing? Are you rebelling against the king?” they asked. I replied, “The God of heaven will help us succeed. We, his servants, will start rebuilding this wall. But you have no share, legal right, or historic claim in Jerusalem.””   (Nehemiah 2:19-20 NLT)

Jerusalem had enemies.  You could describe them as enemies of God, and any efforts God was doing among His people.  Was it jealousy or envy. Was it simply disdain for the Jews, God’s chosen people, the people through whom God wanted to display His love?  Or were these simply bullies?  In any case, when they heard of the plan to rebuild Jerusalem’s walls, they began mocking and accusing.  That’s what God’s enemies do.  Nehemiah replied not by getting defensive, but by declaring that this was God’s initiative.  And that they were simply following His lead. Then Nehemiah shut them down, stating this was NOT up for discussion or a vote.  He and they WERE going to rebuild the wall with God’s help, no matter what!

As we step into prayer for America, and seek to follow God’s invitation to pray for this country, our people, for the rebuilding of America’s spiritual walls, we too will encounter enemy push back.  It may be subtle or blatant mockery, (ie – “what are you doing?” “Prayer is silly and worthless!” etc), or it may seem accidental/coincidental (ie – the appliances in your house all begin to break, etc.).  As these taunts just bolstered Nehemiah and the Jews’ resolve, we too can be bolstered and encouraged by these attacks at us.  Jesus, who experienced this enemy warfare more than anyone, which led ultimately to his death sentence on a cross, said, “in this world you will have trouble, but TAKE HEART, I have overcome the world” (emphasis mine, John 16:33).  We CAN be encouraged that we too are following where God is leading, and in fact, potentially suffering for Jesus’ name.  This is an honor indeed.  Resolve now to pray for America, her future, and for her people, no matter what!  And our Father who hears from heaven will reward you and me by taking our requests seriously and RESPONDING!  The wall WILL be rebuilt!