The words are similar for a reason. Opportunity. Opposition. They aren’t just neighbors in the dictionary. When opportunity knocks, expect opposition to rock.

I like what Paul says in 1 Corinthians 16:9 “a great door for effective work has opened to me, and there are many who oppose me.”

A “great door of effective work” – in other words, a wonderful opportunity to work for God has just been given to me. Then Paul includes this statement: “and there are many who oppose me.”

Bottom line: Don’t judge opportunity by its opposition.

God often gives His chosen ones two great gifts: (1) a Dream and (2) a Deterent. Just because your dream has its critics does NOT necessarily mean you haven’t heard from God or that He has forsaken you.

While Nehemiah organized the rebuilding of Jerusalem’s walls, he had to arm his builders with a tool and a sword. David had to run and hide for 15 years AS the anointed King of Israel. He had to sing/perform for a man whom God has rejected as King, dodging his hurled chairs and spears at the same time. Moses had 600,000 angry followers, an attempted coup by Korah, and even his own brother and sister turned against his leadership.

Jesus was bruised, beaten and put to death all while fulfilling the will of God for His life perfectly.

One of the best reasons God keeps opportunity and opposition near each other in life is so we learn to rely on Him more and ourselves less. Opposition can drive us to our knees, get us to ask God the right questions, and shore up our devotional time and determination!

Don’t judge an opportunity by its opposition.

Of course you do not want to foolishly blaze a trail into stupidity. That’s why you have a church, elders, and Christian leaders in the local assembly to give you sound advice.

But if what is on your heart is about bringing people to God – there is no doubt – God is in it.

No wonder Paul then writes in VERSE 13 Be on your guard; stand firm in the faith; be men of courage; be strong.

Who says doing the will of God is for wimps?