Nehemiah 6:9

For they were all trying to frighten us, saying, "Their hands will be weakened in the work, and it will never be finished." But now, my God, strengthen my hands.

Study Bible

For they all were trying to intimidate us
The phrase highlights the persistent opposition Nehemiah faced from his adversaries. The Hebrew root for "intimidate" is "yare," which conveys fear or terror. Historically, Nehemiah's enemies, including Sanballat and Tobiah, sought to instill fear to halt the rebuilding of Jerusalem's walls. This reflects a common tactic used by adversaries to disrupt God's work by sowing doubt and fear among His people.

saying, 'Their hands will be weakened in the work
The expression "hands will be weakened" is a metaphor for discouragement and loss of strength. In Hebrew culture, hands symbolize power and action. The enemies' goal was to sap the energy and resolve of the workers, making them doubt their ability to complete the task. This mirrors the spiritual battles believers face, where discouragement is a tool used by the enemy to hinder God's work.

and it will not be done
This phrase underscores the ultimate aim of Nehemiah's adversaries—to prevent the completion of the wall. The Hebrew word for "done" is "asah," meaning to accomplish or finish. The historical context reveals that the wall's completion was crucial for the security and identity of the Jewish people. The enemy's assertion that "it will not be done" is a direct challenge to God's promise and provision.

But now, O God, strengthen my hands
Nehemiah's response is a prayer for divine intervention. The word "strengthen" comes from the Hebrew "chazaq," meaning to make strong or firm. Nehemiah's reliance on God for strength is a testament to his faith and leadership. This plea for strength is a powerful reminder for believers to seek God's empowerment in the face of opposition. It reflects the biblical principle that true strength and perseverance come from reliance on God, not merely human effort.

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. Sanballat and Tobiah
These are adversaries of Nehemiah who oppose the rebuilding of Jerusalem's walls. They represent external threats and opposition to God's work.

3. Jerusalem
The city whose walls Nehemiah is working to rebuild. It is a symbol of God's presence and the spiritual center for the Jewish people.

4. The Wall of Jerusalem
The physical structure that Nehemiah is focused on rebuilding, representing protection, security, and the restoration of God's people.

5. The Jewish Workers
The people who are working under Nehemiah's leadership to rebuild the wall, facing both physical and psychological challenges.

Teaching Points

Dependence on God
Nehemiah's immediate response to opposition is prayer, demonstrating the importance of relying on God for strength in times of trouble.

Perseverance in the Face of Opposition
Despite the threats and attempts to intimidate, Nehemiah remains steadfast, teaching us the value of perseverance in fulfilling God's work.

Spiritual Warfare
The opposition Nehemiah faces is not just physical but also spiritual. Believers must be aware of spiritual battles and rely on God's strength.

Leadership and Encouragement
Nehemiah's leadership is marked by encouragement and prayer, setting an example for leaders to support and uplift those they lead.

Faith in Action
Nehemiah's prayer is coupled with action. He doesn't just pray for strength but continues the work, showing that faith must be accompanied by action.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does Nehemiah's response to opposition in Nehemiah 6:9 inspire you to handle challenges in your own life?

2. In what ways can you apply Nehemiah's prayer for strength to your current circumstances?

3. How does the opposition faced by Nehemiah compare to spiritual battles you might face today?

4. What other biblical figures demonstrate similar reliance on God in the face of adversity, and what can we learn from them?

5. How can you encourage and support others in their faith journey, following Nehemiah's example of leadership and prayer?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Ezra 4
This chapter describes earlier opposition to rebuilding efforts, showing a pattern of resistance against God's people.

Philippians 4:13
This verse speaks to the strength that believers can find in Christ, similar to Nehemiah's prayer for strength.

Isaiah 41:10
This passage reassures God's people of His presence and strength, echoing Nehemiah's reliance on God.

2 Corinthians 12:9
Paul speaks of God's strength being made perfect in weakness, paralleling Nehemiah's prayer for strength amidst opposition.