Moreover, from the twentieth year of King Artaxerxes, when I was appointed to be their governor in the land of Judah, until his thirty-second year—twelve years—neither I nor my brothers ate the food allotted to the governor. …Furthermore, a hundred and fifty Jews and officials ate at my table, as well as those who came to us from the surrounding nations. (14,17).
Nehemiah went above and beyond to make sure his life was an example. To do so he lived above reproach, not accepting the governor’s portion and still feeding many at his table.
Too often leaders and people of prominence accept perks and at times flaunt privilege. Not so Nehemiah. He chose to live so that the average person would respect him and honor him.
Nehemiah sets a high bar to this day.
What does living above reproach mean for me in my life? For me it means living within my means. It means being transparent with my elders when a parishioner gives me something that might be beyond what that person would give anyone else. It means living in a way that if others emulate, the glory is given to the Father, Son and Holy Spirit.
Living above reproach means living a life of integrity.
What does living above reproach mean for you? Think about it…
Lord God, may my life bring You honor and glory. Lord, may my life bring people into Your kingdom. I pray this in Jesus’ name. Amen.
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