I also made provision for contributions of wood at
designated times, and for the first fruits.
Remember me with favor, O my God. Nehemiah
13:31
Footnote: Nehemiah's life story provides many principles
of effective leadership that are still valid today.
1. Have a clear purpose and keep evaluating it in
light of God's will. Nothing prevented Nehemiah from staying on track.
2. Be straightforward and honest. Everyone knew
exactly what Nehemiah needed, and he spoke the truth even when it made his goal
harder to achieve.
3. Live above reproach. The accusations against
Nehemiah were empty and false.
4. Be a person of constant prayer, deriving power and
wisdom from your contact with God. Everything Nehemiah did glorified
God.
Leadership appears glamorous at times, but it is often
lonely, thankless, and filled with pressures to compromise values and
standards. Nehemiah was able to accomplish a huge task against incredible odds
because he learned that there is no success without risk of failure, no reward
without hard work, no opportunity without criticism, and no true leadership
without trust in God. This book is about rebuilding the wall of a great city,
but it is also about spiritual renewal, rebuilding a people's dependence on
God. When we take our eyes off God, our lives begin to crumble.
Keep reading -- 79 days left!
All footnotes taken from the Life Application Study Bible, NIV
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