The Hebrew word translated as awesome
comes from a verb whose root meaning is to fear.
The Hebrew term fear
leans in two directions depending on the disposition of the heart of the person doing the fearing (Exodus 20:20; Jonah 1:10, Jonah 1:16). Unbelievers should fear God in the negative sense of being terrified, while believers should fear God in the positive sense of deep respect. The word awesome,
then, is not a synonym for great,
but reflects the respect and adoration Nehemiah has for this glorious God.
5 And I said, “O LORD God of heaven, the great and awesome God who keeps covenant and steadfast love with those who love him and keep his commandments,