The moment we choose to do something for God, we must expect resistance, especially if we are true believers. The Bible is filled with stories of how opposition often follows obedience. That truth hasn’t changed in our present world.

When believers set their hearts on honoring God, enemies often arise, serving as a reminder to stay alert, focused, and be prepared to expect resistance. Listen, resistance is not always a sign to quit, but proof that you’re on the right path.

Today, let’s explore what it means to expect resistance and how to respond when it shows up.

Key Takeaway to Expect Resistance

  • Expect Resistance: Opposition is part of obedience. Adversaries will appear, so stay focused on your assignment, not the attack, and fight to the end.

Anchor Bible Verse of the day

Now when the adversaries of Judah and Benjamin heard that the descendants of the captivity were building the temple of the Lord God of Israel.

2 they came to Zerubbabel and the heads of the fathers’ houses, and said to them, “Let us build with you, for we seek your God as you do; and we have sacrificed to Him since the days of Esarhaddon king of Assyria, who brought us here.”

3 But Zerubbabel and Jeshua and the rest of the heads of the fathers’ houses of Israel said to them, “You may do nothing with us to build a house for our God; but we alone will build to the Lord God of Israel, as King Cyrus the king of Persia has commanded us.”

— Ezra 4:1-3 (NKJV)

Key Explanations

  • Adversaries: These are enemies pretending to help, but truly seeking to hinder the work.
  • Descendants of the captivity: Referring to the Israelites who returned from exile, symbolic of a fresh start.
  • Building the temple: Obedience to God’s command; a spiritual task that draws both favor and friction.

Reflection on Expect Resistance

Beloved, to walk with God is to walk upstream in a downstream world. When you try to rebuild what’s been broken, repair what’s been lost, or rise from spiritual ruins, you must expect resistance.

The people of Judah and Benjamin, in those days, began to build the temple that was in ruins, a sign of restoring worship and identity.

But the moment they took action, the enemy showed up, not to help, but to hinder what they had started.

This truth is still relevant today, and even rampant. As believers, when we stand for truth, pursue purity, or serve in our churches, we may face criticism, discouragement, or spiritual attacks.

Don’t be surprised when resistance comes. Jesus said in John 16:33,

In the world you will have tribulation; but be of good cheer, I have overcome the world.

That’s a promise that victory still belongs to those who don’t give up.

To expect resistance is not a negative warning but a spiritual alertness. When you know opposition is likely, you won’t be shocked when it comes. You’ll be ready.

Satan opposes what he fears. So when you’re under pressure, remember, it might just be because you’re dangerous to the enemy’s plans.

Our response should not be to retreat, but to press in closer to God. Use the resistance as a reminder to pray more, worship deeper, and work harder.

Every builder faces barriers, but with God on your side, no opposition can stop the assignment He has placed in your hands.

Be prepared to expect resistance henceforth. When the enemy shows up, don’t panic; be prepared. Opposition is often a sign that your breakthrough is near.

Blessings..!

Call to Action

  • Be bold today. Ask yourself, where is resistance showing up in your life? Instead of backing away, press forward in faith.

Prayer Point for Today

  • Standing Strong in Opposition: Pray that God will give you spiritual discernment and courage to keep building despite any resistance you face.

Let’s pray

Our Father, help us to stand strong when resistance comes. Give us wisdom to see the enemy’s tricks and strength to keep moving forward.

In the precious and mighty name of Jesus, we pray. Amen.

My prayer for you today: It’s my prayer that when resistance arises, you will stand firm and trust that God is fighting for you.