Nehemiah’s greatest challenge was not assessing the state of the ruined wall and proposing a reconstruction plan. His true challenge was to get the people to follow him in this drastic project. Given the prevailing context, it seems the people of Jerusalem were psychologically weakened. In their mindset, the task seemed impossible—their morale was low. Indeed, many before Nehemiah had tried to rebuild the city but had been stopped; the people were demoralized.

Nehemiah was fully aware of the mental and emotional state of the people. He therefore tackled the issue head-on and summoned all the leaders without exception—nobles, magistrates, priests, and others. I picture him standing before this assembly, presenting the project of rebuilding the wall, boldly speaking to all, stirring the people regarding Jerusalem’s dire condition, reminding them that they were chosen by God and should not wallow in despair, but rather be filled with strength and courage to overcome this hardship.

It was no longer acceptable for Jerusalem to remain in shame and mockery. God had found a leader to change the thought system of a discouraged and defeated nation. Nehemiah shared with all the people of Jerusalem his mindset of a faith-filled and optimistic conqueror:

“Then I said to them, ‘You see the trouble we are in: Jerusalem lies in ruins, and its gates have been burned with fire. Come, let us rebuild the wall of Jerusalem, and we will no longer be in disgrace.’ I also told them about the gracious hand of my God on me and what the king had said to me. They replied, ‘Let us start rebuilding.’ So they began this good work.” Nehemiah 2:17-18

Nothing can discourage us anymore when our way of thinking is transformed—absolutely nothing. Sanballat the Horonite, Tobiah the Ammonite official, and Geshem the Arab mocked and despised the momentum rising in the people of Jerusalem. Believing discouragement still ruled their hearts, they didn’t realize that God had raised a leader to strengthen the people’s mindset. Oh, how I love Nehemiah’s response to their intimidation:

“I answered them by saying, ‘The God of heaven will give us success. We his servants will start rebuilding, but as for you, you have no share in Jerusalem or any claim or historic right to it.’” Nehemiah 2:20

Now the God of heaven is with them, and nothing can stop a nation that relies on Him from achieving its goal. No discouragement strategy can extinguish the determination of a people who rise up to fulfill God’s purposes. In times of crisis, the Lord will always send a type of leader who will transform the thought system of an entire nation—a leader who will not give in to discouragement, but will transmit his courage, way of thinking, and mindset to those around him.

While chaos reigns and morale is low, while everyone cries out in despair, let us choose to go against the tide. Let us be among those who lift up all who are ready to abandon the idea of changing their environment and their situation…

This text is an excerpt from the book “The Economy of the Kingdom” written by Emmanuel MENIE.

We invite you to read the next article: “Leaders Who Confront Adversity.”

Nation’s Thought System. Nation’s Thought System.