Nehemiah 4:15

When our enemies heard that we were aware of their scheme and that God had frustrated it, each of us returned to his own work on the wall.

Study Bible

When our enemies heard
The term "enemies" in this context refers to the surrounding nations and groups who opposed the rebuilding of Jerusalem's walls. Historically, these included the Samaritans, Ammonites, Arabs, and Ashdodites. The Hebrew word for "enemies" is "oyeb," which implies not just opposition but active hostility. This highlights the constant threat faced by the Israelites, emphasizing the spiritual and physical battles believers often face.

that we were aware of their scheme
The phrase "aware of their scheme" indicates a level of discernment and vigilance among Nehemiah and the Israelites. The Hebrew root for "scheme" is "mezimmah," which can mean a plan or plot, often with a negative connotation. This awareness underscores the importance of spiritual discernment and wisdom in recognizing the tactics of opposition, a theme prevalent throughout Scripture.

and that God had frustrated it
The acknowledgment that "God had frustrated it" points to divine intervention. The Hebrew word for "frustrated" is "parar," meaning to break, annul, or thwart. This demonstrates God's sovereignty and His active role in protecting His people. It serves as a reminder of the biblical truth that God is a defender and protector, turning the plans of the enemy into nothing.

each of us returned to his own work on the wall
This phrase signifies unity and determination among the Israelites. The act of returning to work symbolizes resilience and faithfulness to God's calling. The Hebrew word for "work" is "melakah," which refers to labor or craftsmanship. This highlights the importance of perseverance and dedication in fulfilling God's purposes, despite opposition. The rebuilding of the wall is not just a physical task but a spiritual mission, reflecting the restoration and protection of God's people.

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 reliance on God.

2. Enemies
These are the adversaries of the Jews, including Sanballat, Tobiah, and others who opposed the rebuilding of Jerusalem's walls. They sought to intimidate and thwart the efforts of the Jews.

3. God
The divine protector and guide for Nehemiah and the Jewish people. God is credited with frustrating the plans of the enemies.

4. The Wall of Jerusalem
The physical structure being rebuilt by the Jews under Nehemiah's leadership. It symbolizes protection, identity, and the restoration of the Jewish community.

5. The Scheme
The plan devised by the enemies to attack and stop the rebuilding of the wall. This scheme was ultimately thwarted by God.

Teaching Points

God's Sovereignty in Our Battles
Trust in God's ability to thwart the plans of those who oppose His work. Just as He frustrated the enemies' schemes in Nehemiah's time, He remains sovereign over our challenges today.

The Importance of Vigilance and Prayer
Nehemiah's awareness of the enemy's plans came through vigilance and prayer. We must remain spiritually alert and prayerful to discern and counteract the enemy's schemes in our lives.

Returning to the Work
After the threat was neutralized, the people returned to their work. We should be diligent in our God-given tasks, trusting that He will handle the opposition.

Community and Cooperation
The rebuilding of the wall was a communal effort. In our spiritual journey, we should work together with fellow believers, supporting and encouraging one another.

Faith in Action
Nehemiah's account teaches us to combine faith with action. While trusting God, we must also be proactive in fulfilling our responsibilities.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does Nehemiah 4:15 demonstrate God's sovereignty over the plans of our enemies, and how can this assurance impact your daily life?

2. In what ways can you remain vigilant and prayerful to discern the schemes of the enemy in your own life?

3. Reflect on a time when you faced opposition in your work or ministry. How did you see God at work in that situation?

4. How can you contribute to the "rebuilding" efforts in your community or church, similar to the communal effort in Nehemiah's time?

5. What practical steps can you take to ensure that your faith is accompanied by action, as demonstrated by Nehemiah and the people of Jerusalem?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Psalm 33:10-11
This passage speaks of God frustrating the plans of the nations and ensuring that His purposes prevail, similar to how God frustrated the enemies' plans in Nehemiah.

Isaiah 54:17
This verse promises that no weapon formed against God's people will prosper, reflecting the protection Nehemiah and the Jews experienced.

Philippians 1:6
This New Testament verse assures believers that God will complete the good work He has begun in them, paralleling the completion of the wall despite opposition.