Stewardship Over Self-Interest | Nehemiah 5:14-15

Moreover, from the time that I was appointed to be their governor in the land of Judah, from the twentieth year to the thirty-second year of Artaxerxes the king, twelve years, neither I nor my brothers ate the food allowance of the governor. The former governors who were before me laid heavy burdens on the people and took from them for their daily ration forty shekels of silver. Even their servants lorded it over the people. But I did not do so, because of the fear of God. — Nehemiah 5:14-15 CALL OUT: Patrick Pope from Hillsboro, MO, is a faithful listener and a new monthly partner. Thank you so much for getting behind us. For all those new to the Daily Devo, we are dedicated to scriptural faithfulness, teaching through the Bible, and providing practical application so you understand how to grow in your faith. Today's scripture centers on Nehemiah's 12 years of political leadership as governor. Now, I have been referring to him as a governor, but this is the first place in this book where this title is mentioned. This means that there was something special about Nehemiah's leadership during this project that led to his appointment by King Artaxerxes. But it's notable to read here that Nehemiah attempts to lighten the burden on the people. Great leaders of any kind have the impetus Nehemiah does here. They have this sustained fear of the greatness of God, which leads them to look at every decision through a spiritual lens, having spiritual consequences. Most leaders do not stop to think about this—even leaders who are believers. For example, consider what Nehemiah could have done in this situation. After his appointment, he could have played right into the King's favor and benefited himself. He could have continued to take food allowances and leverage taxation to benefit himself. But he doesn't. In fact, he counters this move. But he doesn't do it in protest to the king. He also doesn't do this to benefit his favor with the people. He does it because he fears God and refuses to lead God's people down the wrong path. Thus, we discover here that Nehemiah is a unique spiritual leader. He has this unique spiritual perspective on everything he does. He perceives himself not as a leader but as a steward who is leading God's people into the same stewardship. And here is why I love this about Nehemiah. Leaders like this have a growing and enduring impact on the work of God. We need more leaders like this in our homes, churches, businesses, and politics. We need spiritual leaders who care more about fearing God and serving Him than serving self. And I believe these leaders are incredibly hard to find. Mostly because leaders, when intoxicated by a bit of power, money, or influence, will be secretly enticed to make self-interested decisions. They will stop looking at their situations spiritually and be diverted from the fear of the Lord. They will fear the government, fear the people, fear loss, fear provision, yet fail altogether to fear the Lord. But the leader who wakes up every day and recalibrates their heart to the fear of the Lord is the leader upon whom rests great leadership and greater responsibility by God who knows they can bear the tension and burden of these temptations. Today, identify a place in your life where your leadership has turned toward self-interest. Then confess it. And turn back. Fear the only One worth fearing, and see if God doesn't strengthen your spiritual muscle for leadership. ASK THIS: In what ways might you be unknowingly prioritizing self-interest over Godly stewardship in your own leadership roles, whether at home, church, work, or in your community? Reflect on a specific instance and discuss how a "Nehemiah approach" could alter your decision-making process. Nehemiah feared God more than the king, the people, or personal loss. In your life, what fears compete with your fear of God? Discuss how these fears influence your leadership decisions and explore practical steps you can take to align your leadership more closely with a God-centered perspective, as exemplified by Nehemiah. DO THIS: Fear the Lord in your leadership today. PRAY THIS: Father, help me to lead with the humility and Godly fear exemplified by Nehemiah, always placing Your will above personal gain and worldly influences. Guide my heart and decisions so that in all aspects of my life, I may reflect Your wisdom and stewardship. Amen. PLAY THIS: Honey in the Rock. 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: