When Sanballat heard that we were reconstructing the wall, he flew into a rage, became indignant, and mocked the Jews.

I became very livid when I heard their complaining and these charges.

When all of our enemies including the surrounding nations heard this, they became very discouraged, since they saw that the work had been done by our God.

"But they our ancestors became arrogant and stubborn, refusing to listen to your commands.

They would not listen, and did not remember the miracles you did among them. Instead, they became stubborn and appointed a leader to return them to their slavery. "But you are a God of forgiveness, gracious and compassionate, slow to anger, and rich in gracious love; therefore you did not abandon them.