What I have learned about people and organizations...so far.

Tuesday, August 30, 2022

Fifth Century Visioneering

 Nehemiah’s Vision

 
We can learn much about vision from a study of Nehemiah, the fifth century high official in the Persian court of King Artaxerxes I.  His vision was for the city of Jerusalem; which during its history was destroyed twice, besieged 23 times, attacked 52 times, and captured and recaptured 44 times.  Nehemiah’s story has at its core every element related to vision.   He envisioned rebuilding the wall surrounding the city that had been destroyed by an invader and left in shambles by apathetic citizens.  In the Book of Nehemiah we see: 

  • Vision Formed – he was compelled to rebuild the wall.
  • Vision Shared – he asked the king for permission to do so.
  • Vision Acted On – he organized others to help him in the task.
  • Vision Resisted – the “good old boy” network mocked him and tried to stop him.
  • Vision Completed – Jerusalem’s wall stood once again.

 
So, what is your vision?  What do you see?  What do you think about that could be or should be?”  Before you make any plans spend time seeking vision. 

 

“Good business leaders create a vision, articulate the vision, passionately own the vision, and relentlessly drive it to completion.”  Jack Welch