Have you ever felt defeated when God has led you to do a work, and it faced resistance? Did you give up or push through? It is normal to question what you are called to do when you face any opposition. The Jewish leaders wanted to kill Peter and John, but they backed down because of some wise counsel. If it is of God, it won’t fail.
Acts 5:39
“So in the present case I tell you, keep away from these men and let them alone, for if this plan or this undertaking is of man, it will fail; but if it is of God, you will not be able to overthrow them. You might even be found opposing God!” So they took his advice,”
Wise Counsel
In the early days of the church, there was a movement by the Sanhedrin to snuff it out. They went after the leaders, Peter and John. Their hope was to kill them until a wise Pharisee named Gamaliel stepped in and provided some counsel, “if this is of man, it will fail, but if it is of God, you won’t be able to stop it.” Fortunately for the Jewish leaders, they listened. They weren’t going to stop the new work that God was doing through the church.
Don’t Lose Your Head
In moments of extreme emotion, you can often lose your head and all reason. When the blood pressure rises, all you can think about is getting what you want. The Jewish leaders in the Sanhedrin were so overcome with emotion that they lost sight of any biblical wisdom. When you get hurt by someone, it is easy to lose all perspective and not do the godly thing. It is in those moments that you can oppose God. You will never win that fight. Take a walk, some deep breaths, and consult the wisdom of a mature Christian.
If It Is of God It Won’t Fail
If God has led you to do something, don’t let the opposition stop you. Peter told the leaders, “We must obey God over men.” The same is true for you. People may put up roadblocks, but God sees that, and He won’t let what He has called you to do be thwarted. Be patient and wait for God to open the door. During that process, He is doing a work in you and those who are resisting.