• Public Opinion
Humans are always faced with the fear of being judged by others than actually upholding religious standards. We tend to compromise our faith for fear of being judged by others, we find ourselves celebrating vileness because we like to be associated with the elite and gain earthly popularity as opposed to eternal value.
• Inadequate Bible Knowledge
Lack of understanding of God’s word can cause a reduction in the faith as faith comes by hearing: hearing the word of God. When one is not informed of God’s word, he struggles to live a godly life.
The Godly man is one whose life reflects God’s character, which is marked by righteousness (which is a free gift of salvation through faith not earned by works) and obedience to the teachings of Jesus Christ.
In Psalm 1, the Godly man is described as one who is blessed, deeply rooted in God’s word and whose craft prospers. This is a call for spiritual revival alongside a personalised hunger for God, which is achieved by meditating on the word God, continuous communication in the place of prayer and faithfulness are key prerequisite for spiritual growth.
In the book of Nehemiah, Nehemiah as an exemplary leader was faithful in His walk with God and work for God. He received a report of the ruins of Jerusalem after which he fasted and prayed for God’s guidance so he could rebuild the walls of Jerusalem.
As every good thing would face opposition, there was a plot in Neh 4:8 to cause confusion and stop his good intentions. These men fought his good deed by intentionally creating chaos with the main aim of stopping the actualisation of the dream. Faithful men are scarce due to these kind of men, who walk in the path of Sanballat and Tobias. However, Nehemiah applied the strategy of prayer; he did not only pray, but also worked strategically with His people (the Jews) to ensure that the work was done. He played a prophetic role to restore His people and city to God. If faithful men must maintain their stand and retain their post prayer and communion with God is sacrosanct.
Nehemiah in the 12th verse had the gift of good men who informed him of lapses the enemies could use and with that information, he strengthened His defence. Information is essential for every work to progress. He was a selfless leader who had His people at heart as this was noticed in their devotion and dedication to the work at hand else, they’d not avail themselves.
In our society today, leaders must be ready to serve the people and not only lead for the convenience that comes with the position. Most times it is embarrassing to witness how some sacrifice the led for the same convenience. To this end many great talents have been sacrificed for leadership convenience and some followers has given up because they are not ready to pay the ultimate price of humility, patience, tolerance and long suffering.
Finally, in a world steeped in darkness it is wisdom to be a beacon of light. Individuals, communities and institutions are urged to cultivate and promote faithfulness and godliness as virtues.
•The Venerable Stephen Wolemonwu is Rector, The Ibru International Ecumenical Centre, Agbarha-Otor, Delta State (08035413812)
