Moreover from the time that I was appointed to be their governor in the land of Judah, from the twentieth year even unto the two and thirtieth year of Artaxerxes the king, that is, twelve years, I and my brethren have not eaten the bread of the governor. But the former governors that had been before me were chargeable unto the people, and had taken of them bread and wine, beside forty shekels of silver; yea, even their servants bare rule over the people: but so did not I, because of the fear of God. Yea, also I continued in the work of this wall, neither bought we any land: and all my servants were gathered thither unto the work. Moreover there were at my table an hundred and fifty of the Jews and rulers, beside those that came unto us from among the heathen that are about us. Now that which was prepared for me daily was one ox and six choice sheep; also fowls were prepared for me, and once in ten days store of all sorts of wine: yet for all this required not I the bread of the governor, because the bondage was heavy upon this people. Think upon me, my God, for good, according to all that I have done for this people. (Nehemiah 5:14-19)
Today's Morsel: Nehemiah was motivated by three factors as he carried out his duty as governor. He feared God, he was sensitive to the needs of the people, and he desired the blessings of God in his life. These same factors should govern every one of us as leaders in our homes, churches, and communities. If we approach advancements and promotions with the same basic motivations and mindset as Nehemiah, we, too, will have the key to maintaining our spiritual and psychological balance and stability. If we as Christian are sensitive to others, we'll not take advantage of them. We will never use our position or power to exploit them. Nehemiah was in charge, which meant that all the privileges of power were his to enjoy. But he had learned a concept Jesus would later put into words, "And whosoever of you will be the chiefest, shall be servant of all. For even the Son of man came not to be ministered unto, but to minister, and to give his life a ransom for many"(Mark 10:44-45). Nehemiah put this into practice. This is the way of God. The principles that Jesus taught in the parable of the talents will always hold true, "Thou hast been faithful over a few things, I will make thee ruler over many things: enter thou into the joy of thy lord"(Matthew 25:21). If we will concentrate on doing right before ourselves and others, God will open the door to fulfillment and opportunity when we're ready for it. With every opportunity, we should look to help people and to advance the Kingdom of God. When we are motivated by the factors and thinking of Nehemiah, we should be able to handle any promotion or position without being deceived by Satan's tactics.
"Adversity is hard on a man; but for one man who can stand prosperity, there are a hundred that will stand adversity." Thomas Carlyle.
Sing: I am weak but Thou art strong, Jesus keep me from all wrong; I'll be satisfied as long, as I walk, let me walk close to Thee.
Just a closer walk with Thee, grant it, Jesus, is my plea; daily walking close to Thee, let it be, dear Lord, let it be.
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