Nehemiah's closing chapter is permeated by this plea (Neh 13:31). After meditating through this book, this request really strikes a chord. Nehemiah, as governor of the returning exiles to Jerusalem, had to make some decisions to take a strong stand on what God desired among His people. Some of which may have made him unpopular among not only the surrounding peoples, but also among his fellow countrymen.

Such is always the case of those in leadership, whether in civil government, church leadership, or functioning as head of one's own home. Nehemiah's prayer demonstrates an essential ingredient of the heart of a faithful leader - a desire to please God alone. This is a walk by faith that remembers that God is our ultimate ruler and reward.

May we all, in whatever opportunity we have to lead, confidently act and lead in a way, that shows that we have an upward eye toward the desires of our "King", and not an fearful eye on the approval ratings of those over whom we rule. Only in this way will we have the confidence to echo Nehemiah - "remember me, O my God, for my faithful deeds..." (Neh 13:14).    ~ Ted J