They were just trying to intimidate us, imagining that they could discourage us and stop the work. So I continued the work with even greater determination. (Nehemiah 6:9)
Sanballat’s weapon of choice was rumour, which has at least two distinctive characteristics. First, a source is never declared. Note the vague reference, “It is reported among the nations” (Nehemiah 6:6 NASB). This lends an air of credence to both the story and the storyteller. It suggests that the story is widely reported and, therefore, credible.
Second, rumours usually involve exaggeration and inaccuracy. A rumour builds upon a kernel of truth, which gives gullible people—or people with a motive—just enough reason to swallow the lie whole. Then it’s passed from person to person as the exaggeration compounds itself, almost like magic.
Nehemiah found himself on the horns of a dilemma. If he refused to go to Ono, it would be tantamount to saying, “I’m afraid to let the truth be known.” But if he went to Ono, he would leave the work on the wall and play into the hands of the enemy.
People who spread rumours invariably lack wisdom. Discernment causes a person to ask such searching questions as, “Is it necessary to say this? Is this confidential information? Is it even true? Do I have any right to pass this on?” Wisdom prompts the reply, “Don’t open your mouth because God hates those who sow discord among His people” (see Proverbs 6:16–19).
Nehemiah was confronted with an open letter containing accusations built upon a lie. And he responded beautifully. First, Nehemiah calmly denied the charge: “Nothing like these things that you are saying has been done” (Nehemiah 6:8 NASB). Second, he put the blame where it belonged: “You are inventing them in your own mind” (6:8 NASB). Third, he took his case before the Lord: “But now, O God, strengthen my hands” (6:9 NASB).
“So the wall was completed” (6:15 NASB). Such sweet, satisfying words. And what a magnificent accomplishment! Even as the attacks continued, the final bricks were laid in place. With the completion of the wall, the tables turned: “When all our enemies heard about it, and all the nations surrounding us saw it, they lost their confidence” (6:16 NASB).
That has to be the most thrilling experience in the world—to see God come to the rescue when you have been helpless. In the middle of the incessant assault of the enemy, in spite of the endless verbal barrage, the wall was built! Even as the enemy blasts, God builds.
