Then I prayed, “Hear us, our God, for we are being mocked. May their scoffing fall back on their own heads, and may they themselves become captives in a foreign land!

But we prayed to our God and guarded the city day and night to protect ourselves.

“Don’t be afraid of the enemy! Remember the Lord, who is great and glorious, and fight for your brothers, your sons, your daughters, your wives, and your homes!”

The whole assembly responded, “Amen,” and they praised the Lord. And the people did as they had promised.

I replied, “There is no truth in any part of your story. You are making up the whole thing.”

9They were just trying to intimidate us, imagining that they could discourage us and stop the work.

So on October 26:15 Hebrew on the twenty-fifth day of the month Elul, of the ancient Hebrew lunar calendar. This day was October 2, 445 b.c.; also see note on 1:1. the wall was finished—just fifty-two days after we had begun. 16When our enemies and the surrounding nations heard about it, they were frightened and humiliated. They realized this work had been done with the help of our God.

Appoint the residents of Jerusalem to act as guards, everyone on a regular watch. Some will serve at sentry posts and some in front of their own homes.”

Lord God my Father,

Protect me as I delight in your presence in the world. Some will be offended and try to attack. Give me strength and the words you desire me to speak or keep me still when words are not needed. Give me courage and peace to witness you well and discernment in this world of lies. Keep guard of my day and bring your peace powerfully on me.

In Jesus name I pray,

Amen