Embracing Biblical Wisdom: Nehemiah’s Guide to Meeting Dignitaries

“NO WORRIES, BY FRIDAY, I SHOULD SHARE A THING OR TWO REGARDING THIS.”

It is a race against time, and still, it’s Friday. Some days ago, I promised to share a thing or two about a subject I called “meeting dignitaries“.

It is 11:39 pm, and this must still be published.

The Bible gives so much wisdom about how to live our lives, even touching every sphere. You think about it. God is so intentional about us and has made available a guide for us to help at whatever point we find ourselves in life. We can receive so much wisdom when we give ourselves to His Word.

Let’s say you have the privilege to meet the governor of your state. Maybe that is even too far. What about someone you so much honour whose feats have caused you to wonder, what would you do?

Take a break, be honest, and respond to that question.

Here’s some wisdom to help guide you in your decision.

Nehemiah, was a man who excelled in diplomacy and interactions with high-ranking individuals. His approach to meeting dignitaries, provides valuable insights on preparation, etiquette, and communication.

In the month of Nisan in the twentieth year of king Artaxerxes, when wine was brought for him, Nehemiah had the privilege of serving the king. A change in his countenance was easily observed by the King, who realized that Nehemiah was sad and had a lot on his mind.

Nehemiah was scared to reach out to the king, but he still did. He needed to voice out. Thankfully, it was an extension of mercy.

This was a very significant opportunity for Nehemiah, who was burdened in his heart. It may be an opportunity Nehemiah may not have again. More than his reaching out to the king was the extension of God’s help. The king asked, “What is it you want?” At this very point, one thing was needful, let’s call it preparation. Nehemiah had a request already.

Nehemiah 2: 4-5

Then I prayed to the God of heaven, and I answered the king, “If it pleases the king and if your servant has found favor in his sight, let him send me to the city in Judah where my ancestors are buried so that I can rebuild it.

At this very moment, it is worthy to note the God factor. There’s a favour God can bring when a man stands before kings.

Even at this time, we significantly have our roles to play, and that’s our level of preparedness where opportunity meets our preparations.

A question was thrown back to Nehemiah after His request. This was to prove how prepared he was for what he was asking.

Nehemiah 2:6

Then the king, with the queen sitting beside him, asked me, “How long will your journey take, and when will you get back?” It pleased the king to send me; so I set a time.
I also said to him, “If it pleases the king, may I have letters to the governors of Trans-Euphrates, so that they will provide me safe-conduct until I arrive in Judah? And may I have a letter to Asaph, keeper of the royal park, so he will give me timber to make beams for the gates of the citadel by the temple and for the city wall and for the residence I will occupy?” And because the gracious hand of my God was on me, the king granted my requests. So I went to the governors of Trans-Euphrates and gave them the king’s letters. The king had also sent army officers and cavalry with me.

Many times, it’s about something other than meeting dignitaries or having access to them. Often, it’s even about what bargain and deal you can strike in simple conversations with them. More than your desire for an affiliation with them is the value exchange.

Nehemiah’s manner and approach were respectful, humble, direct, and determined. Undoubtedly, he was faithful as well.

Nehemiah began by addressing the king, “If it pleases the king” and “your servant,” demonstrating his respect for his authority. Trust me, it takes humility to gain access to heights of honour.

He was humble as well. He referred to himself as “your servant,” indicating his humility and willingness to serve the king.

As direct as Nehemiah was, he was not afraid to speak his mind, even though he did so respectfully. Nehemiah clearly stated his request to return to Judah and rebuild the city. Their time slot wouldn’t avail so much talk. Hey, go straight to the point.

Nehemiah remembered to understand a significant factor backing him up in all of these. He understood the role of God in all of these. No wonder he realized that the king also granted his request because the gracious hand of the King of kings was on Him.

Have faith in God, trust Him to help you and remember you also have a role to play even in your quest to become better and achieve incredible feats. Thrive!!!

Thank you for revisiting my space. I hope to write to you soon.