By 430 B.C., the Jerusalem city wall had lain in ruins for decades. Now the Jews began to rebuild. Why not before? Lack of courage . . . no strong leader. Then Nehemiah appeared. He longed to serve and was put in charge. And stirring courage revived a community.
The Jews' enemies scoffed. Building materials were mostly rubble. But Nehemiah was tenacious. He treated workers well and protected them from abuse. He helped the poor. And he was a great man of prayer.
This is Howard Butt, Jr., of Laity Lodge. Let me point you to the book of Nehemiah. You'll find a great study on effective servant leadership—our model for the high calling of our daily work.
Our LORD, I am praying for your servants--those you rescued by your great strength and mighty power. Please answer my prayer and the prayer of your other servants who gladly honor your name. (Neh. 1:5-6)
(Howard Butt, http://www.thehighcalling.org/Library/ViewMessage.asp?MessageID=401&WID=386&T=H&SID=12675)
