MODERN-DAY NEHEMIAH

After recently reading again the Book of Nehemiah in the Bible, I was struck with a number of subtle similarities between the patriotism and leadership abilities of Nehemiah and President Donald J. Trump.

Now, before you roll your eyes and think this comparison is an assertion that President Trump is the godliest of men, who should warrant our reverence and worship, that’s not the implication here. However, it is quite interesting when you examine the comparison of these two leaders.

Nehemiah lived in the fifth century B.C. following the Babylonian exile of the Jews and the destruction of Jerusalem and the Temple in 586 B.C. The Babylonian Empire fell to the Persian Empire in 539 B.C. Shortly after, the Persian King Cyrus signed a decree allowing Zerubbabel to lead some Jews to return to Judah, and even financed their plan to rebuild the Temple in Jerusalem.

Thus says Cyrus king of Persia: “All the kingdoms of the earth the Lord

God of heaven has given me. And He has commanded me to build Him

a house at Jerusalem which is in Judah.” Ezra 1:2

Now, as a side note, isn’t it interesting that the King of Persia (which is modern-day Iran) would honor and support the Jewish people then, only to have Iran do everything possible to annihilate them today. But sadly, that is the condition of our world.

Okay, back to Nehemiah. He wasn’t even born when the first group of exiles returned to Jerusalem and re-built the Temple in 539 B.C. Then 80 years later in 458 B.C., a second wave of exiles returned to Judah, led by Ezra, only to find dysfunction, immorality, laziness, infiltration of pagan influence, and spiritual bankruptcy.

During this time, Nehemiah held a position of great privilege and responsibility in the Persian court of King Artaxerxes. In addition to being the cupbearer, he was also a trusted advisor to the king; all the while being a devoted follower of God. In 445 B.C. Nehemiah was informed about the condition of Jerusalem and the remnant of Jews that had already returned.

Much of the misery and vulnerability the Jews were experiencing was because the walls of Jerusalem had not been rebuilt since the fire and destruction 140 years earlier. There was certainly a compelling need for strong leadership. Through prayer and fasting, Nehemiah immediately asked God for wisdom, discernment, guidance and vision to become that leader.

After receiving permission from King Artaxerxes to go to Judah, Nehemiah was appointed governor of Jerusalem to make Israel great again! (MIGA) Now we all know that it was actually God who anointed and called Nehemiah to fulfill these duties, as it is God who puts all people in leadership roles to accomplish His purposes.

“…For there is no authority except from God, and the authorities that exist are

appointed by God.” Romans 13:1

Now Nehemiah didn’t have to leave his comfortable and prestigious life in Persia to travel some 800 miles to go to a city/nation in ruins. But he did so as a result of his love for his fellow Jews. Nehemiah possessed several distinguishing attributes and traits that made him the kind of leader who could accomplish what was necessary, such as:

· He relied on God for everything through prayer

· He had vision to see a project through, from beginning to completion

· He assembled a strong team to meet his objectives

· He cared deeply about doing what was right for the Jewish people

· He was an insightful negotiator

· He was a strong leader during times of turmoil

· He had the ability to motivate others

· He was tirelessly committed to his role and the task at hand

· He was resolute in ensuring the safety and security of his people (the wall)

· He stood up to his adversaries and detractors with resolve

· He was a source of motivational energy, and celebrated victories with joy

All these leadership qualities resulted in Nehemiah leading his people in completing the rebuilding of the walls of Jerusalem in just 52 days! That was cause for celebration and a shout out to the One to gives us strength.

Nehemiah said, “Go and enjoy choice food and sweet drinks, and send some

to those who have nothing prepared. This day is holy to our Lord. Do not grieve,

for the joy of the LORD is your strength.” Nehemiah 8:10

Now let’s compare these leadership attributes for Nehemiah to those of President Trump. This same list of leadership traits can also be assigned to our current leader of the free world. He accomplished a great deal in his first term, but we are experiencing leadership we have not likely seen in our lifetime. And, as of this writing, it has only been 42 days, not 52!

It is highly plausible that the two attempts on President Trump’s life in 2024 has influenced a slightly different approach to his leadership this term. For one thing, he boldly declares his need of, and love for God. How refreshing was it to have his first cabinet meeting open with a prayer!

As President Trump exhibits his love of God and love of country, let all of us continue to pray for his protection, and that of his dynamic cabinet. Nehemiah led the efforts to build the much-needed wall around Jerusalem. President Trump will complete the much-needed wall at our southern border.

Nehemiah was determined because the task at hand was vital, and he was serving a powerful God. Trump has the same determination to make America great again. They both posses(ed) the same level of determination because they are part of a great plan that God has for the world. God bless America!

“Pray for rulers and for all who have authority so that we can have quiet

and peaceful lives full of worship and respect for God.” 1 Timothy 2:2

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Mist Carter is Christian patriot who is the author of three books. Her most recent release, “We the People—Daily Devotional for Loving God & Country” is now available. Her previous books are titled, “Our Crumbling Foundation—Will God Cancel Us?” and “God’s Truth About America!” Proceeds from all her book sales go to support Tunnel to Towers!