Andrew Valiente is talking about Nehemiah. Nehemiah is a fellow who lived while the Israelites were captives of the Babylonians. He wanted to go back, but the city was ruined, and he prayed to God for help before he presented himself to the king for permission to fix up the city.
Before God, Nehemiah humbled himself. Then he declared his sadness to the king, and when the king offered some assistance, Nehemiah began praying to God.
Valiente's point is that Nehemiah's focus -- indeed, utter frightened dependence -- on God pleased God, and is an important example for us to follow.
Nehemiah went to Jerusalem, and against mockery and opposition declared that God would accomplish His purpose -- to rebuild Jerusalem (or, most notably, the wall). Nehemiah had confidence in God, and would not be daunted.
When the wall was halfway finished, great opposition came. This parallels Andrew's experiences in school -- halfway through the semester, things get tough.
Nehemiah dealt with this problem by distributing weapons to his workers and organizing them a bit. It was quite an intelligent plan, for it defended the wall but allowed work to continue. It is important to note that he didn't give up. He had a plan. We, as students (or just people, for that matter), should have a plan. When the going gets tough, the tough get going, so to speak.
Above all, Nehemiah always gave credit and praise to God for the accomplishments -- that were, after all, due to God. And we need to do that as well -- as students, teachers, workers -- as His creation, all glory we might have is due to Him.