Matthew Poole and continuators on Nehemiah 6:16

16 And it came to pass, that when all our enemies heard thereof, and all the heathen that were about us saw these things, they were much cast down in their own eyes , for they perceived that this work was wrought of our God .

i. e. In their own Opinion, or themselves being Judges. For though ordinarily men are very prone to judge partially, and still to flatter themselves with vain hopes and fancies, yet this case was so clear and remarkable, that they began to despair. Now they saw that all was lost, that their designs were broken, and that their mischief was now likely to fall upon their own heads.

By that admirable Courage, and Constancy, and quickness wherewith this work was managed, notwithstanding all their difficulties and discouragements.

That it was the work of that mighty God of Israel, whom they had great reason to fear: and withal they took it for an ill omen▪ to them, and a sure presage that God would still watch over that City and People, and crush those who should oppose or disturb them.