Definition: Yet many years didst thou forbear them, and testifiedst against them by thy spirit in thy prophets: yet would they not give ear: therefore gavest thou them into the hand of the people of the lands.

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this verse from Nehemiah 9:30. It’s a really important passage about how God responds to disobedience and injustice. Here’s a simplified explanation: The Basic Situation: Nehemiah was in charge of rebuilding the walls of Jerusalem. He was trying to restore order and rebuild the city after a period of chaos. The people were disobeying God's instructions. They were refusing to listen to the prophets who told them to build the walls correctly and follow God’s laws. What Happened Next: The people refused to yield to God's message. They just kept ignoring what he was telling them. God responded with a powerful punishment. He didn’t just punish them – he took away their ability to do anything. He essentially handed them over to the people of neighboring lands. What Does It Mean? This verse is a bit dramatic, but it's about God’s judgment and his unwavering commitment to justice. Here's what it suggests: God's Sovereignty: He’s in control and doesn’t give in to bad behavior. He isn't letting them off the hook. His Spirit as a Force: The phrase "testifiedst against them by thy spirit" means that God was actively using his power – his spirit – to confront their defiance. It wasn’t just a passive judgment; it was a forceful presence. Giving Up Control: The verse highlights that God took over the situation and gave the people of neighboring lands the responsibility for handling the situation. In simpler terms, it means that because the people refused to listen to God's word, he chose to take action – to remove their ability to do anything – as a consequence. Key takeaway: It’s a powerful reminder that God is ultimately in control and will not tolerate willful defiance of his commands. --- Do you want me to elaborate on any specific part of this verse, or would you like me to explain it in a different way (e.g., focusing on the spiritual aspect)? For example, are you curious about: The context of Nehemiah's situation? What does "testifiedst against them" mean in more detail?