The Leadership ChallengeSample

Challenge 29

NEHEMIAH: LEADING CHANGE

READ: Nehemiah 4:1–14

Part of leading change is the ability to identify and respond to opposition while keeping focused on the mission at hand. Read the passage from yesterday again. From the beginning, Nehemiah and his team face opposition to their building project. Much of it is taunting and back-channel attempts to get the Babylonian leadership to question Nehemiah’s motives. At times the enemies resort to outright threats and plans to attack the builders and so demoralize and disrupt the mission. Consistent with his character, one of the first things Nehemiah does is pray (see also Challenge 22). He recognizes the source of true wisdom and reminds his people of the power of the Lord, “who is great and awesome.” Then he changes his plans, taking prudent steps to protect the work while avoiding interruptions. As we serve in the military, one thing we can rely on is constant change. Some change occurs as the result of unexpected barriers or opposition, and effective leaders must learn to anticipate and adjust to accomplish the mission.

What other leadership lessons can we learn from this text? What can you learn from Nehemiah about anticipating and adjusting—both personally and as a team—to opposition or obstacles?