The Nehemiah Blueprint By Chris Jorgensen

The Nehemiah Blueprint for Building Lasting Impact

In January 2022, I spent my morning studying Nehemiah’s book. As I immersed myself in Nehemiah’s story, I realized that his leadership example provides a tremendous roadmap.

If we think back to early 2022, faith-based organization leaders faced tremendous challenges. Many leaders were stretched thin, on the brink of burnout, and feeling dread as they endeavored to be the leaders God had called them to be.

The realization of Nehemiah’s leadership example’s impact on us as we continue to encounter challenging seasons began a journey that I didn’t think I would ever take. It resulted in a book, The Nehemiah Blueprint, that unpacks eight attributes Nehemiah portrayed that fueled his leadership:

Passion & Calling | Courage | Wisdom & Discernment | Preparation| Humility | Vision | Action | Perseverance

As I wrote the book, I began to see four themes emerge that are deeper than the eight attributes.

Leadership is a Journey

While Nehemiah’s leadership journey may start in Chapter 1, God was honing his leadership ability well before he was called to help the Israelites rebuild the wall.

The attributes that made him successful weren’t there overnight. Instead, they were cultivated through intentional effort. Each attribute he portrayed is not all or nothing, not something you have or don’t have.

Instead, Nehemiah shows us that leadership is a journey. The goal is to take small steps to grow into the leaders we desire to be.

Be encouraged! He shows us that where we are today on our leadership journeys is not where we always will be. We can intentionally grow to become the leaders God has called us to be.

Leadership Matters

Nehemiah’s leadership had a multiplying effect on the Israelites. He did much more than organize a group of people. He motivated a nation to unite for one purpose, one goal. Individuals set aside personal differences and cancerous historical practices to contribute selflessly to their unifying cause.

His positive leadership example translated into tremendous teamwork, humility, and selflessness by the Israelites.

Unfortunately, the same multiplicative effect applies in the absence of good leadership. When leaders aren’t mindful of how they are leading, aren’t working to improve, and become self-focused, their leadership will inevitably spill over to the people they lead and create devastating ripples.

His leadership mattered; the catalyzing difference exponentially propelled the Israelites to success.

Foundation Matters

Nehemiah led on top of a foundation that was solid. He knew his purpose. He was courageous and willing to face difficulty. He constantly sought wisdom and took time to discern the best path forward. He created space for preparation and rest. He was humble, intentionally focused on others, and aware of his weaknesses. He made a vision that resonated with the people.

His leadership foundation was intact. It was whole. It was crack-free. He constantly stewarded it to ensure he was leading on a firm foundation.

His sound leadership foundation amplified under pressure; his leadership strength grew stronger.

When a leader’s foundation is sound, their strength will appear and amplify in challenges. But, when a leader’s foundation is cracked and crumbling, their weaknesses amplify when difficulties arise.

It is too late to repair a leadership foundation when a challenge comes. The time is to create a solid foundation to thrive through difficult seasons.

Leadership is Not Done Alone

From the start and constantly throughout the effort to rebuild the wall, Nehemiah sought God to help him lead. He prayed before starting his journey, asked God for help daily, and constantly pointed back to God as the reason for their success.

His example shows the importance of prayer and seeking God’s guidance. It shows how much more impactful we are when we surround ourselves with mentors and trusted counselors who help us navigate the difficult situations we will inevitably face.

He was not alone on his leadership journey; we don’t have to do it alone. I am excited about what Christian Leadership Alliance is doing in its Community Hubs. In this place, faith-focused leaders can unite and sharpen one another to be the leaders God desires them to be. I am humbled to be able to serve at the Community Catalyst for the Executive Leadership Hub, where my goal is to create an encouraging environment where we can all support and motivate each other to lead well.

If you want to enhance your leadership foundation in the eight attributes found in the Blueprint, consider taking The Nehemiah Blueprint Assessment. This complimentary leadership self-assessment will provide you with customized insights.

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Chris Jorgensen is the founder of Convergent Strategy. Chris offers strategic guidance in planning, effectiveness, and organization development. His new book, The Nehemiah Blueprint, explores essential leadership attributes. If you are an Alliance member, you can engage with him in the Executive Leadership Community Hub!

Meet Chris Jorgensen at the Outcomes Conference, learn more about his latest book, and how to engage with him and other leaders at the Executive Leadership Community Hub. The Alliance Online Member Community is where leaders meet to share ideas, tackle problems, and collaborate for a more significant Kingdom impact. Discover all the places where a leader like you belongs!

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