With these words, set as they are in the context of the blown trumpet, Nehemiah is reminding his hearers of their history. In time past the blow on the trumpet was blown to summon the people to battle (Judges 3:27–28; Judges 6:34; Judges 7:18; 1 Samuel 13:3). Yet the battle was not theirs so much as it was the Lord’s, and when he fights, victory is always assured. Nehemiah’s words recall that glorious lesson of Israel’s history (Exodus 14:14, Exodus 14:24; Deuteronomy 1:30; Deuteronomy 3:22; Deuteronomy 20:4; Joshua 10:14, Joshua 10:42; Joshua 23:10).
20 In the place where you hear the sound of the trumpet, rally to us there. Our God will fight for us.”