I did not demand the governor’s food allowance, because the servitude was heavy on this people. Remember me, O my God, for good, according to all that I have done for this people.
Nehemiah 5:18-19
Leaders lighten the load for their people with strategic sacrifices. Nehemiah distinguished himself in the eyes of the people and God by giving up what he had a right to have. Privileges of leadership exist, yet when a leader passes on them or returns them back to the people, it does not go unnoticed by God.
Your position exists to serve the people, not the other way around. There is a street credit that exists for a leader who sacrifices for their people. Nehemiah knew that if he exercised his right for the governor’s portion, it would come at the expense of the people. Great leadership doesn’t think twice about laying down personal rights so the organization can benefit. Sometimes a leader may sacrifice time, income, expense accounts, vacation plans, and more that they may be entitled to so the team can benefit or be relieved from a burden. Leaders can’t just be aware of what something is; they must be aware of how something looks. Remaining “above reproach” in leveraging the benefits that accompany the office of leadership is as important as avoiding the hint of impropriety in issues of character.
REFLECT TO CONNECT
- Are there “rights of leadership” you feel led to lay down?
- What do people say about leaders who abuse perks?
- Why is it both good and bad to enjoy the privileges of leadership?
Remaining “above reproach” in leveraging the benefits that accompany leadership is as important as avoiding the hint of impropriety in issues of character.
