Key Verse: Nehemiah 2:3, “Why should my face not be sad, when the city, the place of my fathers’ tombs, lies waste, and its gates are burned with fire?”
Being honest is to be sincere in what we speak and do, and not blame others for anything. Instead do things that are in one’s own reach for other’s benefit. Honesty or being sincere is one of the qualities of divine wisdom that we see in James 3:17, “But the wisdom that comes from heaven is first of all pure; then peace-loving, considerate, submissive, full of mercy and good fruit, impartial and sincere.”
When King Artaxerxes asked the reason behind Nehemiah’s sad face, he revealed the true reason – the sorrow of his heart. Nehemiah could have hidden the fact or diverted the topic. But, that would have never brought the right response or favor from the king. Nehemiah shared his concerns as he was sure about the King’s character. Sometimes, we try to hide the pain of our heart from others by saying that “Everything’s fine!”, “Nothing to worry!” or “All is good.” Sharing your burden with a trustworthy person can lessen your burden and they may be able to help you in the situation. As a leader, you need to consult with others as well. They can give advices and inputs that could bring out the best solution for your problem.
Also, in his response to the king, Nehemiah never blamed anyone, including the people in Jerusalem at that time. That makes him an outstanding leader. Blaming others or speaking badly about others can be better called as gossip. A leader should never gossip about others, instead he must be honest to his cause.
Practical Living: Be honest in what you speak. Never try to speak with double meaning. Refrain from spreading gossips; it will ruin your spiritual life as well.
