I posted about it recently, but it shows up again in Nehemiah 4. Opposition.

If you’re attempting anything for God…you’ll experience opposition. Don’t be surprised by it. Just expect it. And don’t be surprised by the source of it.

The Jews who were rebuilding the wall around Jerusalem were ridiculed by their enemies, but they were also reminded by fellow Jews that bad stuff could happen. You may not expect your friends or co-workers to be your opposition, but through their negative talk, they can be just that.

If Nehemiah and the other workers had listened to the negative talk coming from every direction, they would have become discouraged and given up. Read the chapter and pay particular attention to verses 7 to 12.

Unfortunately, our faith can often be very fragile. It may not take much opposition for you to become discouraged or fearful or anxious, so be very careful in choosing the people with whom you will share your dreams and goals.

Look for friends who will feed your faith, not quench it.