Nehemiah was a Biblical figure, cup-bearer at one time to the King of Persia and governor of Jerusalem. He led a team of Jews in the enormous task of rebuilding the walls of Jerusalem that had been destroyed 70 years prior. Many people have never heard of Nehemiah but ever since I read Nehemiah in the Bible, he has become my hero. There was much opposition from his enemies who were threatened by the rebuilding of Jerusalem and it’s possible that they were jealous of his tenacity and courage.
In the 7th chapter of Nehemiah, the wall has been completed, but there was still much work to be done. Nehemiah’s visionary leadership looked beyond their accomplishment to a city that would be strengthened, protected, and rebuilt into a transformed God-fearing society. He looked towards a future when the people of God would once again assemble in worship and revival would sweep their and hearts and land.
- Visionary leaders see beyond their accomplishments and look toward the fulfillment of God’s purposes
- Visionary leaders have a strategic God-plan and work the plan
- Visionary leaders recognize that unless the Lord builds the house it is built in vain (Psalm 127 )
- Visionary leaders are always looking forward not backward, seeking the Lord’s plan
So today I want to challenge you to keep moving forward allowing God to build – your relationships, your job, your projects, your calling. Keep building, keep moving forward. Now for true confessions. There are days when I feel overwhelmed and I decide to give up; quit; stop moving forward. I can hear myself say, “Ive done as much as I can.” And then the voice of Truth breaks through as I step into prayer and worship reminding me that there is more work to be done. The Lord infuses my tired self with His plan and ability to keep moving forward.
Are you tired and worn out? Are you feeling that it’s time to give up on a project, a relationship, your job, or whatever is sucking the life out of you? It may be time for you to reset your vision so you can move forward and often that takes finding space to rest.
Are you tired? Worn out? Burned out on religion? Come to me. Get away with me and you will recover your life. I’ll show you a real rest. Walk with me and work with me– watch how I do it. Learn the unforced rhythms of grace. I won’t lay anything heavy or ill-fitting on you. Keep company with me and you will learn to live freely and lightly. (Matthew 11:28-30 The Message)
If you are losing sight of the next steps you need to take to move forward or if you are simply burned out, step back and find a quiet space to seek the Lord. Connect with Him. He will show you the way.
