The language Nehemiah uses here echoes terminology (and sentiments) that featured numerous times in Israel’s history. We might think of Moses’ words to the people of Israel when Pharaoh’s army was catching up with them on the banks of the Red Sea at Pi-hahiroth. The people saw only destruction before them and feared greatly
(Exodus 14:10), but Moses told them to fear not, stand firm, and see the salvation of the Lord, which he will work for you today
(Exodus 14:13). Similarly, when the people panicked after the return of the spies, Moses said, Do not fear the people of the land…. The Lord is with us; do not fear them
(Numbers 14:9). By using this same terminology now, Nehemiah was reminding the people of their rich history and the God who preserved them.
14 And I looked and arose and said to the nobles and to the officials and to the rest of the people, “Do not be afraid of them. Remember the Lord, who is great and awesome, and fight for your brothers, your sons, your daughters, your wives, and your homes.”