Encourage The Troops

Then as I looked over the situation, I called together the nobles and the rest of the people and said to them, “Don’t be afraid of the enemy!” Nehemiah 4:14

A group of Boy Scouts struggled up a steep mountain trail. It was hot and dry, many of the boys had sore feet, some had empty canteens, and one or two were ready to sit down and cry. They were miserable.

The Scoutmaster was up ahead. He reached the summit and shouted, “Hey guys, I know you’re tired and it’s really hot, but there’s an awesome lake just over the top. Have courage. Keep going.”

Leaders have different perspectives from the people who follow them. It’s easy to ignore the concerns of the group because you can see beyond the present, but it’s your job to encourage them.

The Israelites were surrounded by enemy soldiers, and they were frightened. Nehemiah knew what the outcome would be. He had been to the mountaintop, so he could acknowledge their concerns and reassure them.

What can you see that your troops can’t?