Q: Our small group at church is doing a study of the book of Nehemiah. We're almost finished, and frankly I'm not sure that I get the point. I mean it's cool that Nehemiah was able to organize the people and rebuild the city within just a few weeks. It's even more cool that the king supported him in his effort. Is there one thing that we should learn from this book? If so, what would it be?
A: People often point to the book of Nehemiah as being a model for leadership. So often a study of Nehemiah focuses on the virtues of Nehemiah's style of leadership. And that may all be true. But I do believe there are a couple of key points that I've not seen any Bible study focus on.
For starters Nehemiah's heart was broken for the people. When he heard about the conditions in Jerusalem - he was broken hearted. He grieved. He fasted. He prayed. I wonder how many of us are that broken hearted. We're so filled with images on TV, for example, that we might be immune. Take for example, the recent tragedy in Japan. I've no doubt that hundreds of thousands of Americans watched these images --- hearing the story of destruction, suffering and despair --- and then went out to dinner and to a movie. Few of us wept for Japan, fasted for Japan, etc. So like I said, I wonder if any of us could love a people group so much that we could be broken hearted for their misery, suffering, vulnerability, etc.
Secondly, Nehemiah looked to God for everything. He prayed often. He was specific in his requests of God. He was confident that God would answer. He encouraged the people to be confident in God's provision. I think that too stands in stark contrast to how we live today. Even the most faithful Christians are probably falling short of the level of faith that Nehemiah exhibited. Look at it another way. When Jesus performed miracles - He was never surprised that they worked. For example, when Jesus turned water into wine, He didn't say, "Oh my gosh! It worked! It worked!" Jesus knew who He was and He was confident in the power the Lord had given Him. How may of us really expect miracles in our day to day lives?
Just because you don't quite get it, I encourage you not to give up on the book of Nehemiah. Virtually every book in your Bible is "useful for teaching" (2 Timothy 3:16).
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Servant Leadership – Modeled by Jesus Christ
Philippians 2:7 (NIV)
“…but made himself nothing, taking the very nature of a servant, being made in human likeness”
This verse frames servant leadership perfectly. It’s a model we can follow at work, at home, and in ministry.
A true leader is not the one calling the shots, making the demands, and extracting sacrifices from others…all so the LEADER can benefit.
A true leader is the servant who thinks of others first, encourages, motivates, inspires, and helps people achieve great results…for THEIR benefit.
Jesus Christ was GOD in the flesh. Who else would be justified in coming to earth and expecting to be served? But what did Jesus do? He came to serve…not to be served. He humbled himself and became like a slave.
So, whether you a leading a business, a ministry, or your family unit… Lead like Jesus Christ. Give up, sacrifice, and serve humbly…so that others may rise up, grow, and benefit.
Joseph’s Journey – Leadership Lessons
I recently read the story again about Joseph (Genesis 37-47), and how he grew from an immature teen into the leader that was handed the keys of authority in Egypt and who saved the entire Israelite population from starvation during a seven year famine. You are surely familiar with Joseph (the coat of many colors, dream interpreter, thrown into a well by his brothers, sold into slavery, etc…)
What can we learn about Godly leadership through the life story of Joseph?
- Leaders are developed…not born. As a teen, he created division in his family with his over confidence and untactful attitude. He didn’t have natural abilities.
- Developing as a leader takes time. His journey started at the age of 17. He was 30 before he was given a true leadership position. It was another 14 years before he had truly arrived as a leader.
- Even during difficult trials, he never cursed God. He remained faithful and allowed God to use him. His character and integrity were never sacrificed.
- He didn’t take revenge when his position would have allowed him to do so. Instead he forgave his brothers, and gave Glory to God for His hand in his life. He used his leadership position to serve, not to be served.
There are many more lessons to be learned from this story, but here are a few thoughts to make this personal.
God’s timing is long term…not short term. Are you asking God to do something in your life NOW!? What if God has a bigger long term plan for your life. It’s better to be in GOD’s will, than attempt to get God in line with YOUR will.
Do you sometimes feel like you just aren’t as effective or influencial as you want to be? Do you sometimes feel like your gifts and abilities are just not being used to their fullest? Remember that leadership takes time and is developed daily. Look at your daily habits and start taking intentional daily steps at growing in a particular area. Be open to new opportunities (big or small), and seek out opportunities to serve.
Who knows, over time, God might just use you for GREAT things you never saw coming.