There are four characteristics of leaders who complete great tasks. The first characteristic is that they have a compelling purpose. They can make a great commitment to a great cause. They understand and know that their purpose is to do their best with what God has given them to bring honor and glory not to themselves, but to God. They know that their story must revolve around His glory.
Leaders who complete a great task have compelling purpose.
The second characteristic is that they have a clean perspective. They don’t allow fear to cloud their view of the future—they may have fear but they don’t allow fear to be fatal. The truth is, anger, fear, discouragement, and shame are usually a result of trying to please people instead of God. Nehemiah overcame fear because he focused on God and not them. Fear is the false perception that God’s not going to take care of you or give you what we need. We must learn to embrace Unfamiliar Faith or it will result in Unfamiliar Fear!
Leaders who complete a great task have a clean perspective.
‘Let your conduct be without covetousness; be content with such things as you have. For He Himself has said, “I will never leave you nor forsake you.” So we may boldly say: “The Lord is my helper; I will not fear. What can man do to me?”’ Hebrews 13:5-6
The third characteristic is that they are continually in prayer. They understand that short prayers are powerful. Nehemiah realized it was okay to pray for success, if that success was going to bring honor and glory to God.
Leaders who complete a great task are continually in prayer.
‘Lord, let your ear be attentive to the prayer of this your servant and to the prayer of your servants who delight in revering your name. Give your servant success today by granting him favor in the presence of this man.” I was cupbearer to the king.’ Nehemiah 1:11
‘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
‘Remember me with favor, my God, for all I have done for these people.’ Nehemiah 5:19
The fourth characteristic is that they have courageous persistence. They move ahead despite the odds and do not get discouraged easily.
Leaders who complete a great task have courageous persistence.
‘And let us not grow weary while doing good, for in due season we shall reap if we do not lose heart. Therefore, as we have opportunity, let us do good to all, especially to those who are of the household of faith.’ Galatians 6:9-10
