This book explains the book of Nehemiah, an Old Testament book about leadership. Nehemiah is the best book on leadership ever written. Another is close, The Education of Cyrus, but it does not quite reach this level. Nehemiah is shorter and it is about a common man who became an uncommon leader.

Nehemiah was a cupbearer, a position of trust, for King Artaxerxes, who was the leader of the Persian Empire. Messengers from Jerusalem told him that the people were in dire straits and the city was in ruin. Nehemiah prayed and established a plan to rebuild the wall and reinvigorate the city.

Chuck Swindoll has been a Christian leader and pastor for decades. He wrote several books on biblical heroes. This book is designed to help those who aspire to lead reflect on what is necessary for effective leadership. Nehemiah has 13 chapters. The author goes chapter by chapter, covering topics like the following:

• the role of prayer in the life of a leader
• preparation
• motivating oneself and others
• dealing with opposition and criticism
• handling discouragement
• resolving financial issues
• handling promotions well
• dealing with intimidation
• setting priorities
• dealing with problems

You should read this book more than once. At the very least, write down the main points so that you can review and put them into practice.