Leadership and Governance lessons from Nehemiah!

“For the entire twelve years that I was governor of Judah—from the twentieth year to the thirty-second year of the reign of King Artaxerxes—neither I nor my officials drew on our official food allowance. 15 The former governors, in contrast, had laid heavy burdens on the people, demanding a daily ration of food and wine, besides forty pieces[b] of silver. Even their assistants took advantage of the people. But because I feared God, I did not act that way.16 I also devoted myself to working on the wall and refused to acquire any land. And I required all my servants to spend time working on the wall.” Neh 5 : 14-16

ehemiah was a privileged man, the cup bearer(Equivalent to a Special Adviser) to King Artaxerxes of Babylon. He was an immigrant in Babylon due to the sins of his forebears in Judah. Let’s learn some critical lessons from him.

Lesson 1: Concern and Information Gathering
Nehemiah paid attention to news and information about the state of Jerusalem, which allowed him to identify the problems and needs.

Lesson 2: Emotional Reaction and Action
He reacted emotionally to the situation, which led him to prayer, fasting, and seeking guidance from God before taking action.

Lesson 3: Obtaining Permission
Nehemiah approached the king and obtained permission to leave his role temporarily to focus on rebuilding Jerusalem.

Lesson 4: Making Requests
He made specific requests to the king for support and materials, showing the importance of clear communication and planning.

Lesson 5: Sharing Vision and Gaining Support
Nehemiah shared his vision with the leaders and gained their support, emphasizing the value of effective communication and collaboration. Neh 2:18.

Lesson 6: Handling Challenges Diplomatically and Prayerfully
He dealt with opposition and challenges diplomatically and through prayer, demonstrating the importance of resilience and faith. Neh 2:19-20

Lesson 7: Focus, Strategy, and Security
Nehemiah and his team remained focused on their goal, adopting a strategy that allowed them to work while being prepared for potential threats.

Lesson 8: Record Keeping and Accountability
He maintained records of contributions and progress, highlighting the significance of accountability and transparency. Chap 3

Lesson 9: Finishing Strong
Nehemiah successfully completed the project within a set timeframe, emphasizing the importance of perseverance and achieving goals.

Lesson 10: Refusing to Abuse Power and Office.
The main lesson the Holy Spirit wants us to learn from Nehemiah today is his refusal to abuse his authority, which serves as a reminder for leaders to act ethically and responsibly, especially in positions of power.

Nehemiah said as governor for 12 years he did not receive salary due to him. What a lesson! For sixteen years I was privileged to work with an oil company and at the same time pastoring a prosperous church. I refused to take salary or allowance from the church.

Conclusion: Overall, these lessons offer valuable insights for individuals in leadership roles, whether in religious, organizational, or societal contexts. They emphasize the importance of integrity, empathy, clear communication, strategic planning, and responsible use of authority. May the Lord help us all. Maybe you are abusing office in your small corner and stealing your company dry. Don’t you fear God? Don’t you have conscience? What do you want to do with this acquisition of illegal wealth? All these are at the expense of your soul!

“What good is it for someone to gain the whole world, yet forfeit their soul?” Mk 8:36

Learn!!! Shalom.

Pastor Amos Dada is the District Superintendent of Christ Apostolic Church Bethel, Toronto and the Convener of International Gathering of Eagles conference & Dean, Christ Apostolic Church North America Bible Institute.