Norm begins with a story about codfish shipped across the country—how introducing their natural enemy (catfish) kept them strong. This sets the stage for the message: opposition, though uncomfortable, is often what strengthens us.
Using Nehemiah 6:1–14 as his main text, Norm explores three different types of opposition Nehemiah faced while rebuilding Jerusalem’s walls and draws practical lessons for how we can respond today.
Context: Nehemiah’s Mission
Nehemiah, a trusted cupbearer to King Artaxerxes, felt called to rebuild the walls of Jerusalem. The king not only allowed it, but provided resources. As Nehemiah approached the finish line, opposition increased—especially from men like Sanballat, Tobiah, and Geshem.
Norm notes that opposition often shows up right before major breakthroughs.
Three Forms of Opposition Nehemiah Faced
1. Distraction by Diplomacy
Nehemiah was invited to meet with his enemies—under the guise of reconciliation.
His response? “I am doing a great work and cannot come down.”
Norm points out Nehemiah’s discernment, consistency, focus, and courage to say no.
Lesson: Even seemingly good distractions can derail God’s work in your life. Stay on task.
2. Reputation Undermined by Rumors
Nehemiah is accused of trying to make himself king.
These were lies meant to instill fear and derail the mission.
Nehemiah answers truthfully, rejects the lies, and prays: “O God, strengthen my hands.”
Lesson: Satan often attacks our credibility to slow us down. Stay grounded in truth and prayer.
3. Spiritual Deception
A false prophet tells Nehemiah to hide in the temple to save his life.
Nehemiah refuses, recognizing that the advice violates God’s law—only priests could enter the temple.
He calls the advice sin and points out that fear was the motivator.
Lesson: Even spiritual-sounding advice must be tested against Scripture. Discernment requires a strong foundation in God’s Word.
Applications for Today
Norm reminds us:
We are all leaders—whether in the home, at work, at school, or in ministry.
Discernment is critical. Know Scripture. Test all teaching and advice against God’s Word (1 John 4).
God never calls us to neglect our priorities—family, faith, or integrity—for “ministry.”
Fear is often the enemy’s tool. But “He who is in you is greater than he who is in the world.”
Final Encouragement
Like Nehemiah, we face opposition—from distractions, slander, and spiritual confusion. But Norm encourages us to stay prayerful, focused, and rooted in Scripture.
“The only way to finish the wall,” Norm says, “is to stay on your knees before God.”