Text: Nehemiah 6:3 “So I sent messengers to them, saying, “I am doing great work, so that I cannot come down. Why should the work cease while I leave it and go down to you?”

Enemies will frustrate you if you focus solely on them. To be conscious, strong, and determined in life, you need an opponent. Enemies help you succeed. To think, you need a competitor, envious individuals to publicize your progress, and faultfinders to correct your errors. You require them, even if they are your opponents. They need your focus to be active, so don’t give them any extra attention. They are strong because you are weak; only strength can bring them down. They struggle when they are unable to attain their goals or when they are intimidated. Your ambition or objective surpasses their hostility.

Nehemiah used this method to make his opponents appear insignificant. He didn’t give up his job or business to fight his opponents, but he was aware of their plans. Having his opponents try to stop him pushed him to finish faster. They supported him in his preparations. Sanballat, Tobiah, and Geshem were unable to stop Nehemiah because he was more focused on his work than they were. Beloved, an adversary can help you succeed.

Enemies do not deserve your attention. Nature has forced them to labour without compensation or recognition. Don’t be swayed or deterred by them. Remember, “He who stones every dog that barks will never get there.” Concentrate on your work!