Nehemiah 6:2

That Sanballat, and Geshem sent vnto me, saying, Come, let vs meet together in some one of the villages in the plaine of Ono: But they thought to doe me mischiefe. Nehemiah 6:2 (KJV)

Nehemiah is an Old Testament book that records the rebuilding of Jerusalem’s walls under the leadership of Nehemiah. The events occurred after the Babylonian exile, during the Persian period, when the Jewish people were permitted to return to Jerusalem and restore their city. Nehemiah was appointed governor of Jerusalem and immediately faced opposition from several enemies who did not desire the city’s restoration. Among these adversaries were Sanballat and Geshem, who repeatedly attempted to hinder the wall’s reconstruction.

In Nehemiah 6:2 we see a new tactic employed by Sanballat and Geshem. They sent a message to Nehemiah, inviting him to meet in one of the villages in the plain of Ono, a location outside Jerusalem. On the surface the invitation might appear to be a reasonable request for dialogue or reconciliation, but their true purpose was malicious. Their intention was to do Nehemiah mischief—either to distract him from his work, to trap him, or possibly to assassinate him.

Nehemiah discerned the evil intent behind the invitation. In response, recorded in Nehemiah 6:3, he wrote, “I am doing a great work, so that I cannot come down; why should the work cease, whilst I leave it, and come down to you?” His reply demonstrates a clear prioritization of God‑given work over personal safety or political intrigue. He refused to be sidetracked by the enemy’s schemes and remained focused on the task God had placed before him.

The passage yields several enduring lessons. First, it teaches discernment: not everything that looks benign is beneficial, and believers must seek God’s wisdom to recognize the enemy’s tactics. Second, it models perseverance; despite intense opposition, Nehemiah pressed on, encouraging us to remain steadfast when obstacles arise. Third, it underscores the importance of prioritizing God’s work above distractions and personal agendas. Finally, Nehemith’s refusal to meet the adversaries reveals his trust in God’s protection, showing that reliance on divine guidance safeguards us even in dangerous circumstances.

By studying this verse we gain insight into the challenges Nehemiah faced and the principles he embodied—discernment, perseverance, focus on God’s mission, and confidence in divine protection. These truths inspire believers to stay committed to God’s calling, to recognize and resist deceptive tactics, and to trust that God will watch over and guide us as we pursue His work in our lives.