3 counter-intuitive principles of Leadership

 Read Nehemiah 5.

 If the external problems were not enough, Nehemiah next must deal with an internal threat.  A food shortage prompted those who were starving to sell or mortgage their homes and fields to other Jews in Jerusalem who had food.  Putting their possessions and themselves on the line at interest from each other in a time of famine created a form of slavery. 

Nehemiah started at the top.  He became so angry that he "brought charges against the nobles and officials."  The city was in survival mode from external threats and now things were going from bad to worse due to this behavior toward their own in a time of need.  These leaders should have led in showing mercy to the poor.  The culture had been one where those in high position took advantage of the people and lived lavishly above everyone else.  When Nehemiah became the appointed governor, his view of positional leadership was threefold:

1. Stewardship.  It was God who gave them this opportunity and they would be held accountable to Him.  "Ought you not to walk in the fear of our God."  A steward takes care of the owner's property and makes decisions based upon what pleases the owner. 

2. Sensitive.  He was cognizant that unbelievers were watching.  Those who belonged to the LORD should behave differently than those who do not, "to prevent the taunts of the nations our enemies". 

3. Service.  He did not demand to be served, but he saw himself appointed to serve.  "I also persevered in the work on this wall, and we acquired no land, and all my servants were gathered there for the work."  This he did in part at his own expense.  It was a privilege, not a right, to be where he was. 

It was the attitude of Jesus.  "For even the Son of Man came not to be served but to serve, and to give his life as a ransom for many." (Mark 10:45)