MOST ORGANIZATIONS AND nations fall apart because of opposition and deterioration from within rather than from without. An idea is conceived, gains adherence and grows to fruition. Then after it has served its purpose for a period of time, the work it took to get to that point is taken for granted and often personal aggrandizement corrupts the intended purpose. At the beginning there is sacrifice by the people, but someone usually figures out how to make money from the idea, and it is not long before that which helped people hurts people. That is what happens in this chapter of Nehemiah.
Warming Up to God
The Lord is excited to hear from you today and wants to listen to all you have to say. Tell him about your day and your feelings for a few minutes before you begin reading the Word.
Read Nehemiah 5. »
Discovering the Word
List the three forms of internal opposition in verses 1-5 that are developing against the vision of building the wall.
Who seem to be the people responsible for this inequity? Why do you think they would do this?
Make two lists. In the first cite the practices of the nobles, officials, former governors and their servants (vv. 7-12). In the second list cite the practices of Nehemiah (vv. 14-18).
How would you define the kind of leadership that Nehemiah exercises in dealing with this internal opposition to the wall?
In what ways does the chapter show Nehemiah doing all he can to not be part of this internal opposition?
Applying the Word
In what ways are leaders (spiritual or secular) today likely to assume privileges as these nobles and officials did?
How do you determine what is culturally acceptable and what God's kingdom values are?
What kind of internal opposition could likely come up within your church or Christian group to divert you from your real objectives?
Responding in Prayer
Ask the Lord to "remember you" as you strive to serve him and carry out his will.
For Further Study
Basic Christian Leadership by John Stott
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