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Choose to Lead:Committed to Lead
by Jim Shoff (Jim's bio)
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In Chuck Swindoll's bible study guide "Hand Me Another Brick: A Study of Nehemiah," he describes the re-builder of the wall around Jerusalem as a "rare blend of godliness, tact, discipline, determination, grace, and objectivity." Swindoll's description was that of a leader who was committed to a task he felt strong enough about that he took on the challenge of making others feel just as committed.
In the first part of the book of Nehemiah the remnant of Israel was described as being in great trouble and disgrace. This was the work force that Nehemiah chose to assist him in the task of rebuilding the wall. Nehemiah did not hesitate to embark on this effort because he was committed. He was committed to returning the city of Jerusalem to a city of pride and honor to the God.
Nehemiah possessed the special characteristic of leadership needed to take on a challenge like this. Nehemiah was first and foremost committed to God. He understood the importance of rebuilding the wall as a means to improve the morale of the Israelites more so than for protection. He used inspiring words to evoke the same commitment from his workers as he had for the project. And despite great personal persecution and slander he stood true to his commitment.
As leaders we can learn many lessons from Nehemiah. Once we set on a goal we need to communicate our commitment to the goal to all those involved. In communicating the goal we also need to assure those whom we recruit that we have a plan. That plan needs to appear to be well thought out yet flexible enough to allow us to work through obstacles. As leaders we have to value the input of those we lead. Nehemiah was so committed to the goal that when confronted by his workers of obstacles and concerns Nehemiah showed greater leadership by adjusting the plan and moving forward.
If you want to get started on the right path to success start with your commitment to God, put your plan and goals in His hands and commit yourself to serving Him. In Matthew 5, Christ reminds us "Blessed are those who have been persecuted for the sake of righteousness, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven. Blessed are you when men cast insults at you, and persecute you, and say all kinds of evil against you falsely, on account of Me. Rejoice, and be glad for your reward in heaven is great, for so they persecuted the prophets who were before you."(NIV) Seek some joy in your life, commit to lead.
Copyright 2001, Jim Shoff. All Rights Reserved. Used by permission.
| About Jim Shoff: Jim is married and the father of three teenage daughters. Through his work in sales in the technology sector for the last twenty years, Jim has developed a desire to provide personal development advice for Christian business leaders through his www.leadershipresource.net web site. E-mail Jim |
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