I love the story of Nehemiah, but I think one of my favorite parts of the story is a piece that is often overlooked. Check out Nehemiah 7:1–2
Now when the wall had been built and I set up the doors, and the gatekeepers, the singers, and the Levites had been appointed, I gave my brother Hanani, and Hananiah the governor of the castle, charge over Jerusalem, for he was a more faithful and God-fearing man than many.
— Nehemiah 7:1–2
At this point in the story, Nehemiah has faithfully followed God’s calling to serve and protect the people of Jerusalem, and to rebuild the wall as he set out to do. Now, the time for him to leave is
We don’t know a great deal about these men, but we do know that they weren’t chosen for the positions due to a lengthy and impressive resume. They were chosen to serve in these roles because of their faith! They were God-fearing men, who were trustworthy, and faithful. I wish I could remember who said it, but I’ve heard it said before that leadership techniques and qualifications change, popularity diminishes, but faithfulness and integrity never go out of style!
Have you ever felt that God was calling you to do something, or you’d been presented with an opportunity that you simply did not feel qualified or experienced enough to carry out? My guess is that this is how these two men felt when Nehemiah named then as Jerusalem’s next leaders, however, they faithfully accepted and led well. God doesn’t only use people who are “qualified” – he uses people who are willing to take a step of faith.
Our church staff is amazing! But, c|Life thrives because of the work of the people. Nehemiah had a vision, and he worked hard, made sacrifices, and faithfully followed through. In what ways is God calling you to serve? Perhaps it is a ministry inside the church, perhaps it is something outside the church walls. Whatever it is, God doesn’t need you to have an impressive resume – he simply needs you to be “faithful and God-fearing!”