Nehemiah 4:12

And it came to pass, that when the Jews which dwelt by them came, they said unto us ten times, From all places whence ye shall return unto us [they will be upon you].

Ver. 12. And it came to pass, that when the Jews which dwelt by them came] Their brethren from abroad gave the workmen intelligence; and this was a friendly office; for praemonitus praemunitus, premonition is the best means of prevention. It is the property of a brother, though at other times not so kind, yet in affliction and extremity to find nature working in him, and to do his best. See Proverbs 17:17. See Trapp on " Pro 17:17 "

They said unto us ten times] i.e. Oftentimes, Gen 31:41 Numbers 14:22. The Lord knoweth how to deliver his, as he did David from Saul, Peter from the Jews, Acts 12:7,12, Paul from those conspirators, Acts 23:12,23, and this sinful nation oft from the blood thirsty Papists. Masses were said in Rome for the good success of the Catholic design (the gunpowder plot); but no prayers in England, for our deliverance: and yet they were defeated (Sorex sue periit indicio), and we delivered. Admirable mercy.

From all places whence ye shall return, &c.] Some read it thus, And it came to pass, when the Jews which dwelt beside them, came and told us of their practices ten times out of all places, whence they came unto us, I set in the low places, &c. And here, I cannot tell, saith one, whether these intelligencers be worthy more praise or condemnation. It was their duty to have come home, stood in storms, and help to build Jerusalem. But God, which turneth our intelligence and foolishness to the setting forth of his wisdom and goodness, gave them a good will and boldness to further that building as they might. Thus God useth the service of all men and creatures to the comfort of his people.