Few characters in the Bible fit the role of antagonist quite like Sanballat and Tobiah. Shortly after Nehemiah and the people began construction on the wall, these two showed up to mock, criticize, and undermine their work. They ramped up their criticism in chapter 4, leading Nehemiah to double-down on his determination to inspire the people and get the job done. He offered this prayer to God in 4:4-5: “Hear us, our God, for we are despised. Turn their insults back on their own heads. Give them over as plunder in a land of captivity. Do not cover up their guilt or blot out their sins from your sight, for they have thrown insults in the face of the builders.”

When we are committed to doing what is right and living lives of integrity, opposition is bound to rise up. But God can help that criticism become fuel for us to remain steadfast and even more determined to stay true to God.