Definition: Also I said, It [is] not good that ye do: ought ye not to walk in the fear of our God because of the reproach of the heathen our enemies?

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down that passage from Nehemiah 5:9. It’s a really important and somewhat sobering verse. Here's an explanation in simpler terms: The Basic Idea: This verse is telling us to be very careful about how we treat people who are different from us – particularly those who are foreign or outside our community. It warns against being overly fearful of those who don’t share our beliefs or traditions. Let's unpack it piece by piece: “Also I said…” : This is Nehemiah speaking, and he’s offering a warning. “…it is not good that ye do…” : This means we shouldn't be acting in a way that's harmful or disrespectful to these people. It suggests wrongdoing. “ought ye not to walk in the fear of our God…” : This is the core of the warning. "Our God" refers to God, the creator and ruler of the universe. The verse is saying we shouldn’t let fear – a feeling of dread or anxiety – control our actions. It's suggesting we should be respectful and trust in God's guidance, not be paralyzed by worry. “because of the reproach of the heathen…” : This is the reason behind the warning. "Reclame" means to be scorned, criticized, or treated poorly. The “heathens” here are people from other countries or cultures – those who don’t belong to our community. The verse highlights that these people are being treated unfairly and negatively by us . In a nutshell: Nehemiah is saying we need to be mindful of the potential for negativity caused by treating others with fear, especially when they're different from us. It’s about respecting everyone and avoiding actions that could cause harm or disrespect. Why is this important? This verse highlights the importance of: Tolerance: Accepting people who are different from you. Respect: Treating everyone with dignity, regardless of their background. Humility: Recognizing that we don’t always have all the answers and that God is in control. --- Do you want me to: Explain another verse from Nehemiah? Discuss a specific aspect of this passage (like its historical context)?