How can we apply Nehemiah's leadership principles in our daily interactions? The text in focus “‘The governors who preceded me had heavily burdened the people, taking from them bread and wine, plus forty shekels of silver. Their servants also oppressed the people, but because of my fear of God, I did not act like that.’” (Nehemiah 5:15) Leadership principles drawn from Nehemiah 5:15 • Lead by example, not entitlement – Nehemiah refused the customary governor’s allowance. – Philippians 2:5-7 shows Christ doing the same: “He emptied Himself.” – Daily application: Choose cost-bearing over privilege—e.g., take the late shift no one wants, or absorb blame instead of passing it. • Shape every decision by the fear of God – “Because of my fear of God, I did not act like that.” – Proverbs 9:10 links this reverence to wisdom. – Daily application: Ask, “Will this honor God?” before hitting “send,” signing a contract, or correcting a child. • Protect those under your influence – Earlier in the chapter Nehemiah confronts loan-sharks exploiting the poor (Nehemiah 5:7-13). – Psalm 82:3 commands, “Defend the weak and fatherless.” – Daily application: Speak up for a colleague being sidelined; tip generously; include the overlooked classmate. • Maintain financial and ethical integrity – Nehemiah’s predecessors “heavily burdened the people” with taxes and perks; he chose transparency (Nehemiah 5:14-18). – 2 Corinthians 8:21: “We are taking pains to do what is right, not only before the Lord but also before men.” – Daily application: Refuse under-the-table deals, complete timesheets honestly, settle debts promptly. • Serve alongside, not above – Nehemiah joined the laborers on the wall (Nehemiah 4:21-23). – Mark 10:44: “Whoever wants to be first must be the slave of all.” – Daily application: Stack chairs after the meeting, help with menial tasks at home, mentor instead of micromanage. Putting it into daily interactions: a quick checklist 1. Before decisions: “Is this choice a burden or a blessing to others?” 2. With resources: “Am I exploiting or empowering?” 3. In conversations: “Do my words reflect reverence for God?” 4. At work: “Am I sharing the load or just delegating?” 5. In finances: “Would I sign this cheque if Jesus were the auditor?” |
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