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.
For many years you were patient with them and warned them through your Spirit speaking through your prophets. But they wouldn't listen, so you allowed the people of other nations to conquer them.
God is incredibly patient, giving people many chances to turn back to him, but when they persistently refuse to listen, he allows consequences to follow.
📚 Historical Context
In the Book of Nehemiah, the Israelites had returned from exile in Babylon and were holding a public assembly to confess their sins and recommit to God. This verse is part of a prayer that recounts God's long-suffering patience with their ancestors, who repeatedly ignored the warnings delivered by prophets inspired by the Holy Spirit. As a result, God allowed foreign nations to conquer them as a form of discipline for their unrepentance.
Explore Similar Verses
Ask the AI Assistant
Have a question about this chapter or verse? Ask below for a clear explanation.