Learning From a Great Leader

Who is the greatest leader you’ve ever followed? Why did you choose that person?

Nehemiah was pretty great. He was unafraid to call people out, but he led with his actions as well as his words. He was consistent and he was faithful.

Each of us has a position of leadership – even if just as a parent. What will you take from Nehemiah’s example?

September 14: Nehemiah 1:1-11
Today’s Takeaways:

• Nehemiah prayed and fasted for four months because Jerusalem, and the Israelites who had returned there, were having a very difficult time.
• Nehemiah’s prayer confessed that his people had made poor choices and asked for forgiveness and help.

Today’s Talking Topic:

• Nehemiah was cupbearer to the king, which meant he had some power. He used that power to help the Israelites. What power or influence do you have that you could use to help others?

September 15: Nehemiah 2:1-20
Today’s Takeaways:

• Nehemiah was afraid to be sad in front of the king because kings, back then, were allowed to kill you if they didn’t like something about you.
• Before Nehemiah answered the king, he prayed.

Today’s Talking Topic:

• We often act without seeking God. What situation are you dealing with currently that you should probably pray about before you act?

September 16: Nehemiah 3:1-32
Today’s Takeaways:

• As the Israelites rebuilt the walls of Jerusalem, each family took a section and worked on it.
• Though each family claimed a section, they all worked side by side to fix the walls.

Today’s Talking Topic:

• What can you do together as a family that will help more than just yourselves?

September 17: Nehemiah 4:1-23
Today’s Takeaways:

• Sanballat was a Samaritan leader. Samaritans and Israelites did not get along.
• The Israelites faced a lot of opposition in trying to rebuild the walls, both from their enemies and from circumstances, but they kept building because it was what they were supposed to do.

Today’s Talking Topic:

• What obstacles do you often face when you’re trying to do faithful things?

September 18: Nehemiah 5:1-19
Today’s Takeaways:

• Many of the Jews started turning on each other and treating each other poorly, but Nehemiah called them out for it.
• Nehemiah made sure he did not accept special treatment because of his high position. He, instead, worked on the wall alongside the others.

Today’s Talking Topic:

• Do you have any special position or privilege you could give up for the good of someone else?