There is a difference between leading from convenience and leading from conviction. Convenient leadership is going through the motions in our roles. Conviction is leading from a set of beliefs and values that have captured us. Nehemiah’s conviction led him to rebuild the wall, repopulate the city, and urge the people to recommit themselves to God.
Conviction is the fruit, but the roots beneath the surface that produced the fruit of conviction are clarity and courage.
When the king asked what Nehemiah wanted, Nehemiah asked to go to Jerusalem to rebuild the wall. He was clear on the time he would be gone, the authority he needed in writing from the king, and the resources required. Nehemiah excelled at clarity.
Nehemiah was also courageous. Notice what he wrote about his time before the king: “…Then I was terrified, but…” (Nehemiah 2:2-3, NLT). Courage does not mean not being afraid. Courage is pushing forward in the midst of your fear. Nehemiah replaced his fear of the earthly king with fear, or awe, for His Heavenly King. He prayed to his King and kept going.
Some leaders have clarity, knowing exactly what needs to happen, but they lack the courage to take action. Some leaders have lots of courage and are willing to move, but lack clarity of direction. Without clarity and courage, you don’t get the fruit of conviction.
