When Sanballat the Horonite and Tobiah the Ammonite official heard about it, it was very displeasing to them that someone had come to seek the welfare of the sons of Israel. (Nehemiah 2:10)
As in every good story when things seem to be going well, enter the antagonists, in this one Sanballet the Horonite ( translated “sin has given life”) and Tobiah the Ammonite. Both play key roles in an effort to derail the project in Jerusalem. We witness how this is done in politics everyday, with relentless and loud criticism from the opposition for starters. Sanballet was the unofficial governor of Samaria to the west and Tobiah the “official” was well connected by marriage heralding from the east side of the river Jordan. Both had enjoyed unfettered access to Jerusalem until now, like kids playing in a vacant lot on their street. But now the rightful owner has showed up to build on it, and was in the process of staking it off. Nehemiah, you see, had the title deed in his hand.
His assessment process has long been admired for its pragmatism. The three day rest, the silent tour of the wall at night with a few good men, and his lack of bluster in keeping his plans close to his vest. In leadership, you let your people see what you see and experience it themselves before the inevitable teaching moment and call to action. You cast your vision as one that was cast to you. People need and want to hear how the the Lord did his bidding. Words are your capital and effective if spent wisely.
“You see the bad situation we are in, that Jerusalem is desolate and its gates burned by fire. Come, let us rebuild the wall of Jerusalem so that we will no longer be a reproach.” (Nehemiah 2:17)
Then he told them how the hand of their God had been favorable to him and also about the king’s words which he had spoken to him. The people need to get a sense that there is an appointment with destiny at work and they are invited to participate.
Seeing for themselves and hearing, as it were, from God themselves, they said in response, “Let us arise and build.” So they put their hands to the good work. (Nehemiah 2:18)
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