RIDICULE

Ridicule

Jennifer Woodley

‘But when Sanballat the Horonite, Tobiah the Ammoite official and Geshem the Arab heard about it, they mocked and ridiculed us. “What is this you are doing?” they asked. “Are you rebelling against the king?” Nehemiah 2:19 (NIV).

There will always be those who taunt us when we are set on following God. Those who try to deter us from the good work we are determined to do. The enemies who ridiculed Nehemiah, said that the walls could never be rebuilt because the damage was too extensive. And they said that Nehemiah was rebelling against the king. Yet Nehemiah, undeterred, let their ridicule fall on deaf ears, as he continued to diligently rebuild Jerusalem’s walls.

Ridicule can cut deeply, causing discouragement and despair. In retaliation, we can be tempted to fight back with hurtful words and then grow despondent and give up. That is just how the enemy would have us behave. Instead, like Nehemiah, we need to pray and continue to do what God tells us. 

What is our response when we are mocked for our faith or the good we are doing? Rather than becoming discouraged can we respond in a more healthy way? Tell God how we feel and remember that He promises to be with us. This gives us the encouragement and strength to carry on.

The work of rebuilding the wall progressed well because the people had set their hearts and minds on accomplishing what they had begun. They did not lose faith or give up even in the face of ridicule. If God has called you to a task, resolve to complete it. The rewards of work done well will be worth the effort.

Jennifer is a freelance writer who enjoys encouraging others on their Christian journey through writing and mentoring. Contact