Satan always opposes God’s people, especially when they do the Will of God. Nehemiah was called by God to build the broken walls around the city of Jerusalem. Yes, he accomplished the task in fifty-two days in spite of opposition. The opposing people were Sanballat, Tobiah, Geshem, the Arabs, the Ammonites and the Ashdodites. (Nehemiah 4:8) The methods are similar even today.
1) Hostile environment: Sanballat and Tobiah were angry, displeased and upset. (Nehemiah 2:10) They created an environment of fear and hate.
2) Mockery: They jeered, despised, ridiculed or teased Nehemiah. They were humiliated, saying: If the fox goes over the wall, the wall will break and fall. (Nehemiah 2:19; 4:3)
3) Conspiracy: They became united together in their opposition that they plotted against Nehemiah. Strangely, unrighteous and wicked people make quick alliances to oppose good or righteous people.
4) Deception: “Sanballat and Geshem sent to me, saying, “Come and let us meet together at Hakkephirim in the plain of Ono.” But they intended to do me harm. (Nehemiah 6:3) Their words were smooth like butter, but war was in their hearts. (Psalms 55:21)
5) Surprise attacks: Enemy scouts for vulnerable points to attack and kill as they planned against Nehemiah and his team. (Nehemiah 4:11) Satan can spot unbelief, doubt, disunity, lack of stewardship, fear, negative attitude…etc and viciously attack.
6) Compromise: The enemies invited Nehemiah for negotiations, cut a deal and compromise. Nehemiah was wise to reject their offer. “I am doing great work and I cannot come down. Why should the work stop while I leave it and come down to you?” And they sent to me four times in this way, and I answered them in the same manner.” (Nehemiah 6:3,4)
7) Intimidation: They intimidated by sending hired false prophets. (Nehemiah 6:13) They expected Nehemiah to make spiritual blunders.
8) False accusations: They sent an open letter with accusations that Nehemiah was exalting himself as king. (Nehemiah 6:5) This was to create mistrust among his team and people.
Am I wise as a serpent to discern and counter attacks of Satan?