It is an honor to have you as a member of our subscription service! Share today. #14 NEHEMIAH | Friend of A KingDr. Stephen Phinney: Understanding the value of partnership with governing authorities is crucial for any man striving to make a lasting difference in a world that has gone upside-down.
MEN | BECOME FRIENDS WITH AUTHORITYMen, stop delaying! It's time to take action and rise to the challenge before us. Pick up a brick and rebuild that wall, just as Nehemiah did.Our communities and families depend on our commitment and determination. Let's not wait any longer—embrace the responsibility, work together, and make a difference. With God's strength and indwelling guidance, we can accomplish great things. The time is now! Listen to the IM Leadership podcast version: Nehemiah 2:18 (ESV): "And I told them of the hand of my God that had been upon me for good, and also of the words that the king had spoken to me. And they said, 'Let us rise up and build.' So they strengthened their hands for the good work."Nehemiah exemplified the importance of attentive listening and obedience to both earthly and divine authority. When he learned about the dire state of Jerusalem's walls, he first sought the favor of King Artaxerxes, demonstrating respect and submission to his earthly ruler. With the king's blessing and support, Nehemiah embarked on his mission. Throughout the process, he remained in constant communication with God through prayer, seeking divine guidance and strength. Nehemiah's unwavering faith and dual obedience to his king and God enabled him to lead the successful rebuilding of Jerusalem, in 52 days, showcasing the profound impact of humble and dedicated leadership. Throughout history, God has used worldly leaders to accomplish His divine and holy will for His people.In Proverbs 21:1 (ESV), it is written, "The king's heart is a stream of water in the hand of the Lord; He turns it wherever He will."This verse illustrates that God holds ultimate authority over earthly rulers and can direct their actions to fulfill His purposes. Examples abound in the Bible, such as how God used Pharaoh to display His power in the exodus of the Israelites, or how He used King Cyrus of Persia to decree the rebuilding of the Jerusalem Temple. These instances remind us that, despite the apparent authority of worldly leaders, God remains sovereign and orchestrates events according to His divine plan, ensuring the fulfillment of His promises and the advancement of His kingdom for all those who honor existing authority. This is the exact reason we are to honor earthly authorities!Romans 13:1-2: "Let every person be subject to the governing authorities. For there is no authority except from God, and those that exist have been instituted by God. Therefore whoever resists the authorities resists what God has appointed, and those who resist will incur judgment." Nehemiah supernaturally understood the importance of honoring earthly authorities to fulfill the authoritative mission of God. By seeking and securing the favor and support of King Artaxerxes, Nehemiah demonstrated his respect for the established political structures, recognizing that all authority ultimately comes from God. His strategic and respectful approach to the king not only facilitated the rebuilding of Jerusalem's walls but also underscored the biblical principle of submitting to governing authorities as a means to achieve God's greater purposes. Nehemiah's actions exemplify how reverence for earthly leaders can align with and advance divine objectives, showcasing the harmony between faith and obedience in both spiritual and secular realms. Today, it is 100% opposite of Nehemiah’s Biblical honor!In today's society, many men are ingrained with the ideology of resisting authority as a means to accomplish God's mission. This perspective often stems from a desire to break free from oppressive systems and to stand firm in their self-inspired form of leadership. However, it is crucial to remember that true obedience to God includes honoring the structures of authority He has established. While there are times when resisting unjust or immoral authority is necessary, like being asked to break the ordnances of God, a blanket resistance can lead to disorder and undermine the very mission we seek to fulfill in Christ. By discerning when to submit and when to stand firm, men can more effectively advance God's kingdom, balancing respect for authority with a commitment to His Yeshua’s purposes. GOD HAS HIS WAYSLike the story of Nebuchadnezzar, God has his ways to turn the heart toward the heart of the prophet, like that of Daniel. In the book of Daniel, we read about King Nebuchadnezzar, who was a powerful ruler of Babylon. Despite witnessing God's miracles through Daniel and his friends, Nebuchadnezzar remained prideful and arrogant. God humbled him to demonstrate His sovereignty and power. One day, Nebuchadnezzar had a dream that troubled him, and Daniel interpreted it, warning the king to repent and acknowledge God's authority. However, Nebuchadnezzar's pride persisted. Consequently, God fulfilled the warning: Nebuchadnezzar was driven from his throne and lived like a beast in the field. He ate grass, his hair grew like eagles' feathers, and his nails like birds' claws. This humbling period lasted seven years, during which Nebuchadnezzar experienced the consequences of his pride and rebellion. Eventually, Nebuchadnezzar lifted his eyes to heaven, acknowledged God's sovereignty, and his sanity and kingdom were restored. This Biblical discipline led him to praise and honor the Most High, recognizing that God's dominion is everlasting, and His kingdom endures from generation to generation. This powerful story illustrates how God can use even the mightiest of earthly rulers to fulfill His divine purposes, turning their hearts toward Him and demonstrating His ultimate authority. PRIDE GOES BEFORE A FALLProverbs 16:18 (ESV): "Pride goes before destruction, and a haughty spirit before a fall." How many proud men do you know that think they are qualified leaders?As for me, the list is long and distinguish. In fact, I was one of them until God broke me like a twig. This breaking moved me into a seven-year study of the book of Nehemiah. Today, thankfully, not only am I known for empowering leaders, but I remain in mentorships that continue to grow me as a dynamic leader. The friendship relationships between a governing servant and a powerful earthly leader are beyond responsible, it is eternal. Nebuchadnezzar and Daniel were trusted friends. King Artaxerxes and Nehemiah were trusted and faithful friends. Men, this is how it works. During a remarkable period in my life, I had the privilege of being close friends with the king of a nation up unto his death. Our mutual trust was so united, I was accepted into the Royal Family as special counsel. Our bond was built on mutual respect, trust, and a shared vision for the well-being of the kingdom he was called to serve. This unique friendship allowed me to gain valuable insights into the complexities of leadership and governance. It also provided me with opportunities to influence positive change and contribute to the nation's progress. The lessons learned and experiences shared during this time have left an indelible mark on my life, shaping my understanding of true leadership and the importance of personally knowing that friendship with earthly authorities, is the doorway to accomplishing Yeshua’s mission. Until men recognize that forming friendships with governing authorities is a vital component of fulfilling God's mission here on earth, they will struggle to achieve the broader impact they seek.These relationships provide essential support, resources, and influence that can amplify their efforts and help bring about meaningful change. By aligning with leaders who hold authority and power, men can work more effectively towards the common good, ensuring that their initiatives are supported and sustained. Those who refuse to embrace this lesson may find themselves isolated and unable to reach their full potential, ultimately ending in a state of loneliness and unfulfilled purpose. Understanding the value of partnership with governing authorities is crucial for any man striving to make a lasting difference in a world that has gone upside-down. Find a governing authority. Become friends with them. Honor their position and mission. Then, and only then, will they trust you with their “nation.”
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