PRINCIPLES OF CHRISTIAN LEADERSHIP #1

Insights from Nehemiah

What is leadership? The dictionary defines it as: “1. the position, function, or guidance of a leader. 2. The ability to lead.” To me that definition seems lifeless. While it technically gives the definition, it means little. To see what true leadership is, one must look at a leader. There is no better example of leadership than Nehemiah. He is the personification of Christian leadership.

As I look at Nehemiah, certain principles shine forth that enlighten us as to what a leader is and does. These principles are not limited to Nehemiah and his situation, but are universal and can be applied to Christian leaders today.

Principle # 1: ONE MUST HAVE EMPATHY WITH GOD’S PEOPLE

Empathy is the ability to enter into the feelings of another, to have appreciative perception and understanding of the person or situation. It is to identify and sympathize with another person. Nehemiah shows us that empathy involves:

1. The ear (Nehemiah 1:2-3). The ability to listen is one of the greatest assets of a Christian leader. Leadership begins not with the mouth, but with the ear. One must have the ability to really listen. Information is vital to a leader.
2. The heart (Nehemiah 1:4). When Nehemiah listened, he began to feel. Feeling is concern for what one hears. Concern grips us to turn what we hear to feel the reality of the situation. A leader must be concerned about those whom he leads. Christian leadership is not to be selfish. This is a major difference between leadership in the world and that in the church. A Christian leader leads with his heart, not just his head. His attitude is one of a servant, not a superior. His concern is that of a shepherd for his sheep.
3. The will (Nehemiah 1:4-2:6). When the heart is touched, the will springs into action. Concern leads to involvement and cost. Nehemiah willed to get involved and pay the cost. He was motivated to action—not by personal ambition, but to help God’s people.

Christian leadership involves empathy. It involves being informed of the needs of the people, concern for their situation, and a heart willing to help, motivated to action for those whom God has placed in his care.