It is one thing to be attacked by the governors of the region (Chapter 4) but another to be attacked by their fellowmen. They complained that when they needed food during the famine (v. 2), they mortgaged their properties to the rich and borrowed money to pay their taxes, ending in debt to their creditors (v. 3). When they couldn’t pay them, they have their properties taken and their children became their slaves (v. 4).

It was clear in Leviticus 25:39-43 that they must regard their fellow Jews as hired laborers, not as slaves. Thus, the creditors broke the law and exploited the poor.In desperation, the exploited cried to the new governor, Nehemiah for help.

Nehemiah was angry but he thought about it before calling a meeting to lay the charges in verse 8 We, as far as we are able, have bought back our Jewish brothers who have been sold to the nations, but you even sell your brothers that they may be sold to us!” They were silent and could not find a word to say.

He said what they did was wrong as they did not fear God. They must stop charging the people any interest and give back the interest and any properties taken. The people agreed in verse 12. So, Nehemiah called the priests and made the nobles and officials take an oath on their promise in verse 13.

Nehemiah also promised that he would not be like the previous governors who placed a heavy burden on the people as taxes (vv. 14-16). He asked God to remember him despite having to feed the men until him (vv. 17-19).

Nehemiah had the same compassion for God’s people in Chapter 1. He was angry with the exploiters. But he did not let his anger cause him to act irrationally but wisely before he charged the nobles and officials. He also admitted to his fault in verse 10. They repented with restitution being made. Nehemiah was acting on the command of the Lord to love our neighbors as ourselves.

In a symbolic gesture, Nehemiah shook “the folds of his robe” and said, “In this way may God shake out of their house and possessions anyone who does not keep this promise. So, may such a person be shaken out and emptied!” The dramatic statement means, “If you don’t do as you promised, may God take away all of your possessions.” This was how they committed themselves to obeying the Lord

Nehemiah showed us what it means to be a leader. A leader must listen and act fairly and justly. A leader must admit his mistakes. A leader takes responsibility for his mistakes by making restitution like everyone else. A leader must not use his office or position to his advantage. A leader depends on God.

Prayer: Dear God, grant me grace to love my neighbor as myself. Grant me the strength to be like Nehemiah who exhibited such godly leadership as well.