Thoughts: Why would anyone really object to Nehemiah's trying to protect his own people? Believers should have a right to be safe and defend themselves. This is true today too. This past week 70 Christian churches were burned in Egypt. Persecution of believers in Christ occurs- simply for believing in Him and wanting/inviting others to follow Him as well. Last year about 160,000 died worldwide for faith in Christ. In the instance recorded in Nehemiah opposition came from the desire for total control, and that there be no allegiance but to their government.
Sanballat was the Persian governor of Samaria. His opposition probably fanned the flames of prejudice that were present in Jesus' day between Samaritans and Jews. In this book Sanballat opposed Nehemiah time and time again. There is archaeological evidence of Sanballat's existence (Elephantine papyrus). Tobiah was probably a worship of Yahweh and was governor of Transjordan (East Jordan). Their opposition was probably an effort to preserve more of their political influence. A weak Jerusalem meant more power, influence, and money for the territories/satraps around them.
From another angle, whenever something really good is attempted, we should expect opposition. We see this from the Bible (Jesus' ministry is a prime example of gentle goodness being opposed), and from history. Nehemiah was determined and would not let criticism or opposition stop his resolve to serve God and His people. When we know that what we are doing is right, and is clearly in God's will- having tested it with scripture and godly counsel, then we should not let opposition discourage or surprise us.
Prayer: Lord, let me do your will, even in the face of difficulty, criticism and opposition.
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