While the text does not say so, it is possible that the lumber for the scaffolding either had arrived or was on its way. Nehemiah was wise enough to know that if he is to challenge the people to rebuild the wall, he must be prepared to set them to work at once. A delay would only dissipate their enthusiasm and give his enemies time to counteract his moves. As Nehemiah addresses the people, he calls on them to evaluate their situation. “You see the bad situation we are in.” They had lived with their