Unity In Diversity Is Not The Diversity You Think | Nehemiah 3:6-9

Joiada the son of Paseah and Meshullam the son of Besodeiah repaired the Gate of Yeshanah. They laid its beams and set its doors, its bolts, and its bars. And next to them repaired Melatiah the Gibeonite and Jadon the Meronothite, the men of Gibeon and of Mizpah, the seat of the governor of the province Beyond the River. Next to them Uzziel the son of Harhaiah, goldsmiths, repaired. Next to him Hananiah, one of the perfumers, repaired, and they restored Jerusalem as far as the Broad Wall. Next to them Rephaiah the son of Hur, ruler of half the district of Jerusalem, repaired. — Nehemiah 3:6-9 SHOUT OUT: Adam Clark in Pembroke, NC. He just purchased a bunch of Called To Act books for his men. Thanks for investing in men. What struck me today is the diverse range of individuals collaborating in Nehemiah's story. Here, goldsmiths, perfumers, and rulers work together seamlessly. As you read further, you notice that the diversity only grows. This is a prime example of unity amidst diversity, but it's distinct from the secular concept. It's not about religious diversity. Nehemiah doesn't display a "Coexist" sticker on his horse while circling the city. These individuals are unified under God, aiming to accomplish one goal: to complete the wall, safeguarding the Temple, God’s Word, and God's people. So, let's make this extremely practical. Spiritual leadership is the convergence of three things: A humble leader called by God. A project that is far bigger than one humble leader. A team that believes the project is worth their investment. A diversity of skills working in harmony together. Do you know what this sounds like? It sounds like a mission trip to Haiti with your family. Or a small group that reads the Bible and shares experiences and insights so they can grow spiritually. Or a service project that serves a local ministry with a project. Or going to church and just getting involved and finding a way to use your gift to bless that community. And this requires some thought and effort. So what are you waiting for? Take action right now. Just try one of these: Tell your wife, it's time for us to do a family mission trip. Tell a men's leader you want to lead a group. Sponsor or lead a service project with a group of believers you know. Call your pastor and find a way you can help in the church. That's spiritual leadership. So, get to leading. And thanks, Adam Clark, for leading other men and showing us the way. ASK THIS: How can we, in our own lives or as a small group, embrace the diversity of skills and backgrounds among us to serve a larger purpose, much like Nehemiah's team did in rebuilding the walls of Jerusalem? Reflecting on Nehemiah's leadership style, how can we apply the principles of humble leadership, a common goal, and the convergence of varied talents to strengthen our faith community or personal spiritual journey? DO THIS: Do one of the four options above or one of your own variations. PRAY THIS: Father, guide me to recognize and utilize the diverse talents and backgrounds in my community, just as Nehemiah did, so that together we can achieve Your purposes and strengthen our unity in You. Teach me to lead with humility and wisdom, always keeping my eyes fixed on Your vision and mission. Amen. PLAY THIS: Hark The Herald Angels Sing. Check out other all Vince Miller's videos and audios for small groups at: https://beresolute.org/ Get Vince's most widely read resources The Daily Devotional at: https://beresolute.org/mdd Check out more ALL IN products like the one Vince is wearing at: https://beresolute.org/product-category/all-in-hats/ ____________________________________________________________________________________ Connect with Vince socially: FACEBOOK: https://www.facebook.com/millervince INSTAGRAM: https://www.instagram.com/vinceleemiller LINKEDIN: https://www.linkedin.com/in/vincemiller TWITTER: https://twitter.com/vinceleemiller