Nehemiah 6:14

O my God, remember Tobiah and Sanballat for what they have done, and also Noadiah the prophetess and the other prophets who tried to intimidate me.

Study Bible

O my God
This phrase is a direct appeal to the divine, showcasing Nehemiah's personal relationship with God. The Hebrew word for God here is "Elohim," which emphasizes God's power and might. Nehemiah's invocation of God highlights his reliance on divine justice rather than personal vengeance. In a historical context, this reflects the Jewish tradition of seeking God's intervention in times of distress.

remember
The Hebrew root "zakar" means to recall or bring to mind. In the biblical sense, asking God to remember is a plea for divine action based on His covenant faithfulness. Nehemiah is not merely asking God to recall events but to act upon them, trusting in God's righteous judgment.

Tobiah and Sanballat
These individuals were prominent adversaries of Nehemiah, representing external opposition to the rebuilding of Jerusalem's walls. Historically, Tobiah was an Ammonite official, and Sanballat was a Samaritan leader. Their opposition is emblematic of the broader geopolitical tensions of the time, as neighboring regions sought to undermine the re-establishment of a strong Jewish presence in Jerusalem.

for what they have done
This phrase underscores the specific actions taken by Tobiah and Sanballat against Nehemiah and the Jewish people. The historical context reveals a series of plots and attempts to discourage and intimidate the builders. Nehemiah's request for God to remember these deeds is a call for divine justice against their malicious intent.

and also the prophetess Noadiah
Noadiah is mentioned here as a false prophetess, part of the internal opposition Nehemiah faced. The inclusion of a prophetess highlights the misuse of spiritual authority to intimidate and mislead. This serves as a warning against false teachings and the importance of discernment within the community of faith.

and the rest of the prophets
This phrase indicates that there were multiple individuals claiming prophetic authority who were working against Nehemiah. It reflects the presence of false prophets in Israel's history, as seen in other biblical accounts. Nehemiah's mention of them underscores the spiritual battle he faced, not just a physical or political one.

who have been trying to intimidate me
The Hebrew root "yare" conveys fear or terror. Nehemiah's acknowledgment of intimidation tactics reveals the psychological warfare employed by his enemies. Despite this, Nehemiah's steadfastness and reliance on God serve as an inspirational example of faith and courage in the face of adversity.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Nehemiah
The central figure in the book, Nehemiah is a Jewish leader who is instrumental in rebuilding the walls of Jerusalem. He is known for his strong leadership and deep faith in God.

2. Tobiah
An Ammonite official who, along with Sanballat, opposed Nehemiah's efforts to rebuild Jerusalem's walls. He is often seen as an antagonist in the account.

3. Sanballat
A Samaritan leader who, like Tobiah, sought to thwart Nehemiah's work. He represents external opposition to God's plans.

4. Noadiah
A prophetess mentioned in this verse, who, along with other prophets, attempted to intimidate Nehemiah. Her actions are seen as contrary to God's will.

5. Jerusalem
The city whose walls Nehemiah is rebuilding. It is a central place of worship and identity for the Jewish people.

Teaching Points

Faithful Leadership
Nehemiah exemplifies a leader who remains steadfast in the face of opposition. His reliance on prayer and God's justice is a model for Christian leadership today.

Discernment in Opposition
Nehemiah's ability to recognize and call out false prophets and adversaries highlights the importance of discernment in spiritual matters.

Prayer as a Weapon
Nehemiah's response to intimidation is prayer, demonstrating the power of prayer in spiritual warfare.

Trust in God's Justice
Nehemiah entrusts the judgment of his enemies to God, reminding us to rely on God's justice rather than seeking personal vengeance.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does Nehemiah's response to opposition in Nehemiah 6:14 inspire you to handle challenges in your own life?

2. In what ways can you apply Nehemiah's example of prayerful leadership in your community or workplace?

3. How does the opposition Nehemiah faces compare to the spiritual battles described in Ephesians 6:12?

4. What can we learn from Nehemiah about discerning true and false spiritual guidance?

5. How does Nehemiah's trust in God's justice challenge or affirm your understanding of dealing with personal adversaries?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Ezra 4
This chapter describes earlier opposition to the rebuilding efforts in Jerusalem, providing context for the ongoing resistance Nehemiah faces.

Psalm 35
This psalm is a prayer for deliverance from enemies, similar to Nehemiah's plea for God to remember his adversaries.

Matthew 5:44
Jesus teaches about loving enemies and praying for those who persecute you, offering a New Testament perspective on dealing with opposition.