Leaving A Legacy

(www.mensgroup.org – “Original Study”)

Overview:

This 16-part Bible study series, “Leaving a Legacy,” is designed to inspire and equip individuals to live intentionally and make a lasting impact on the world around them. Each session focuses on biblical principles that encourage participants to embrace their God-given purpose, make wise decisions, and actively serve others. Through the exploration of key themes such as faith, courage, and the importance of community, this series will challenge you to rise above life’s challenges and become a blessing to those around you. By understanding your purpose and taking action, you can create a meaningful legacy that resonates for generations to come.

Message from Marsh: “May your personal walk with the Lord lead you to be transformed, renewed, and blessed.”

Marsh

Founder/President

Thank you for coming to: mensgroup.org

Part VII: Nehemiah - A Model of Godly Leadership

Description

This Bible study explores the life of Nehemiah, focusing on his leadership qualities and how he rebuilt the walls of Jerusalem. We’ll examine how Nehemiah’s example can inspire us to be godly leaders in our own spheres of influence and leave a lasting legacy.

Opening Prayer

Heavenly Father, as we study the life of Nehemiah, open our hearts to Your wisdom. Help us understand what it means to be a godly leader and how we can apply these principles in our own lives. Give us the courage to step up and take responsibility for where you have placed us. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

Introduction

Nehemiah’s story is one of courage, prayer, and decisive action. Though he was not a contractor, builder, or military officer, Nehemiah answered God’s call to lead the rebuilding of Jerusalem’s walls. His example teaches us valuable lessons about leadership, prayer, and leaving a legacy that honors God.

Key Lesson: Nehemiah’s Leadership Principles

A Heart for God’s Concerns

Nehemiah demonstrated a deep concern for God’s people and the state of Jerusalem, despite living comfortably in the Persian palace. When he heard about the condition of Jerusalem, his response was one of genuine distress. Nehemiah 1:4 (NIV) tells us, “When I heard these things, I sat down and wept. For some days I mourned and fasted and prayed before the God of heaven.” This teaches us that to leave a legacy, we must care about the things that matter to God. Effective leaders are those who allow their hearts to be moved by the needs around them, even when those needs don’t directly affect their personal comfort.

The Power of Prayer

Nehemiah’s first response to the distressing news about Jerusalem was to pray. He spent four months in prayer before acting, showing us the importance of seeking God’s guidance before making major decisions. His prayer, recorded in Nehemiah 1:5-11, demonstrates humility, confession, and a reliance on God’s promises. This extended period of prayer underscores the importance of aligning our hearts with God’s will before rushing into action. It reminds us that effective leadership is rooted in a deep relationship with God.

Taking Responsibility

Nehemiah not only prayed but also took action. He approached the king, made plans, and personally led the rebuilding effort. When he arrived in Jerusalem, Nehemiah 2:17-18 (NIV) records his call to action: “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.” This reminds us that godly leadership involves both prayer and action. It’s not enough to be concerned or to pray; we must also be willing to step up and do the work God is calling us to do.

Facing Opposition with Faith

When Nehemiah faced opposition, he didn’t give up. Instead, he continued to pray and press forward with the work. Nehemiah 4:9 (NIV) describes his response to threats: “But we prayed to our God and posted a guard day and night to meet this threat.” This teaches us to persevere in the face of challenges, trusting in God’s guidance and provision. Nehemiah’s example shows us that opposition is often a sign that we’re doing something significant, and that our response should be one of increased prayer and practical action.

Building a Team

Nehemiah understood the importance of involving others in the work. He rallied the people of Jerusalem to rebuild the walls together, demonstrating that effective leadership often involves inspiring and organizing others toward a common goal. Nehemiah 3 details how he organized the people, assigning specific sections of the wall to different families and groups. This collaborative approach not only got the job done but also invested the entire community in the project’s success. It reminds us of that great achievements often require teamwork and that a leader’s role is to unite and motivate others towards a shared vision.

Discussion Questions

1. How can we develop a heart for God’s concerns like Nehemiah did? What issues in our community or world should we be more aware of and concerned about?

2. Nehemiah prayed for four months before taking action. How can we cultivate a similar patience and reliance on prayer in our own lives?

3. In what areas of your life is God calling you to take responsibility and lead? What steps can you take to answer that call?

4. How do you typically respond to opposition or challenges? What can we learn from Nehemiah’s response?

5. Nehemiah built a team to accomplish the work. How can we involve others in the work God has called us to do?

Application

1. Identify an area in your family, church, or community that needs attention. Spend time this week praying about how God might want you to get involved.

2. Start a prayer journal this week, focusing on seeking God’s guidance for a specific area of your life where you need direction.

3. Think of a challenge you’re currently facing. What practical steps can you take to face it with faith, following Nehemiah’s example?

4. Consider your strengths and abilities. How can you use these to serve and lead others in your sphere of influence?

5. Reflect on your current priorities. Are there any adjustments you need to make to align more closely with God’s concerns?

Closing Prayer

Lord, thank You for the example of Nehemiah and the lessons we can learn from his life. Help us to develop hearts that care deeply for Your concerns. Teach us to pray fervently and to act courageously in response to Your call. Give us the strength to face opposition with faith and the wisdom to involve others in the work You’ve given us. May our lives, like Nehemiah’s, leave a legacy that honors You and blesses others. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

Continue to Part VIII: From Blindness to Sight - A Journey of Faith and Obedience

Or use these links to navigate to various parts of this study:

Overview | Part I | Part II | Part III | Part IV | Part V | Part VI | Part VII | Part VIII

Part IX | Part X | Part XI | Part XII | Part XIII | Part XIV | Part XV | Part XVI

Did you find this study useful?

We’d love to hear your success story, ideas, or other feedback. Please send us an e-mail addressed to mensgrouptopics@gmail.com or use our contact page.

click the button below for A “PRINTER FRIENDLY” PDF OF this free study

Join our email list to stay in touch!

  • Get notified of updates such as when new studies are added.

  • Stay “in the know” about book giveaways (and other prizes).

  • We hate spam and will never sell or share your email address.