The pronoun our
serves to unite the two groups hearing Nehemiah speak, that is, the oppressors as well as the oppressed. They are brothers
because they all belong to one God.
Nehemiah had previously reminded the people that this God is the great and awesome God who keeps covenant and steadfast love with those who love him and keep his commandments
(Nehemiah 1:5; Nehemiah 2:18; Nehemiah 4:4, Nehemiah 4:9, Nehemiah 4:20). Given his identity, an attitude of deep reverence (fear
) necessarily befits those who belong to him. Such respect in turn dictates conduct (walk
) in daily life. Being party to enslaving a fellow servant of this God is simply impious conduct.
9 So I said, “The thing that you are doing is not good. Ought you not to walk in the fear of our God to prevent the taunts of the nations our enemies?