I often consider writings – especially spiritual writings – in light of leadership. And lately, I’ve been reflecting on the life and circumstances of a great Jewish leader. He is often touted, in certain circles, as a pre-eminent model of leadership (and administration). His name was Nehemiah and he lived in the B.C. time period. Can you believe a culture/people group with that much longevity?
When Nehemiah had committed himself to a massive vision – re-founding the city of Jerusalem along with re-instituting the spiritual practices of the Jews at that time – it was then that opposition rose against him. A man named Tobiah, with malicious intent, threatened Nehemiah by portraying his leadership as self-serving and power hungry.