Finishing Strong When the Attacks Don’t Stop
There’s a common assumption that once a major task is completed, the pressure will ease. Nehemiah 6 gently but firmly dismantles that illusion. Even after the wall is finished in an astonishing 52 days, opposition remains — quieter, more relational, and more exhausting.
A hired prophet attempts to intimidate Nehemiah into hiding in the temple. The suggestion sounds spiritual, even protective, but it would require Nehemiah to sin (Numbers 18:7) and discredit his leadership. Once again, discernment is key. Fear, when dressed in religious language, can be just as dangerous as open hostility.
Nehemiah refuses and entrusts the matter to God: “Remember Tobiah and Sanballat, my God.” He does not seek revenge. He hands over justice to the Lord.
Then comes the sobering final note of the chapter. Influential people within Judah maintain secret alliances with Tobiah. Letters are exchanged. Information is leaked. The wall stands firm, but relational tensions persist. Victory is real — yet messy.
This is deeply relatable. Many of us know the weariness of finishing a hard season only to find that criticism, mistrust, or quiet resistance lingers. Nehemiah shows us that faithfulness does not require perfect resolution — only continued obedience.
He records the facts, prays, and moves forward. The work is complete because God helped them. That is the final word.
Finishing strong often means enduring subtle, ongoing pressures without losing heart. It means trusting God with unresolved tensions and refusing to let lingering opposition define the outcome.
If you’re tired after a long obedience, take heart. The wall still stands. God is still at work. And finishing faithfully, even when it’s hard, brings Him glory.