BUILDING MOMENTUM: LESSONS FROM NEHEMIAH

In my downtime, I enjoy playing Scrabble on my phone. How many different words can stem from a single root word is fascinating. Recently, while reading an article, the word “momentum” repeatedly caught my attention. I began to reflect on the components necessary to build and sustain momentum. Below are some insights inspired by the word “momentum” and the story of Nehemiah:

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Mo·men·tum /mōˈmen(t)əm/

Momentum signifies a chain reaction of successes—big or small—that creates forward motion, driving progress and accelerating growth in a positive direction.

1. MOMENT

Nehemiah 1:1 The words of Nehemiah the son of Hachaliah. And it came to pass in the month Chisleu, in the twentieth year, as I was in Shushan the palace, 2 That Hanani, one of my brethren, came, he and certain men of Judah; and I asked them concerning the Jews that had escaped, which were left of the captivity, and concerning Jerusalem. 3 And they said unto me, The remnant that are left of the captivity there in the province are in great affliction and reproach: the wall of Jerusalem also is broken down, and the gates thereof are burned with fire. 4 And it came to pass, when I heard these words, that I sat down and wept, and mourned certain days, and fasted, and prayed before the God of heaven.

Nehemiah’s journey began with a pivotal moment when he heard about Jerusalem’s plight and decided to take action. Every great endeavor starts with a moment of inspiration or vision. Think about when you first caught the vision for a significant project or cause.

2. MEN

Nehemiah 11:2 And the people blessed all the men, that willingly offered themselves to dwell at Jerusalem.

The list of people who participated in this monumental project included:

• The descendants of Perez – 468 MEN of standing.
• The descendants of Benjamin – 928 MEN. 
• Priests who worked for the temple – 822 MEN.
• Heads of families – 242 MEN.
• Additional men of standing – 128 MEN.
• From the Levites – 284 MEN.
• The Gatekeepers – 172 MEN.

People are essential for progress. Nehemiah rallied a diverse group of men to rebuild Jerusalem’s walls, each contributing uniquely to the cause. Similarly, any successful initiative requires a committed team to bring the vision to life.

3. MEMO

Nehemiah 2:9 Then I came to the governors of the province Beyond the River and gave them the king’s letters. Now the king had sent with me officers of the army and horsemen.

Clear communication is crucial for maintaining momentum. Nehemiah ensured his people were informed by securing letters from the king and communicating his mission clearly. Regular updates and transparent communication keep everyone aligned and motivated.

4. MOUNT

Nehemiah 2:18 And they said, “Let us rise up and build.” So they strengthened their hands for the good work.

To build momentum, you must inspire and encourage your team. Nehemiah motivated the people by reminding them of their purpose and encouraging them to persevere despite challenges. Similarly, strong leadership involves motivating your team to rise to the occasion and persist in facing obstacles.

5. MUTE

Nehemiah 4:1-2 Now when Sanballat heard that we were building the wall, he was angry and greatly enraged, and he jeered at the Jews. 

It’s vital to mute negative voices that can hinder progress. Nehemiah faced opposition and rumors but stayed focused on the mission. Silence the naysayers and keep your team focused on the goals to maintain momentum.

6. TONE

Nehemiah 4:6 So built we the wall; and all the wall was joined together unto the half thereof: for the people had a mind to work.

The tone of leadership sets the atmosphere for the team. Nehemiah’s people were driven to work, pray, and stay vigilant. A positive, determined tone can inspire your team to give their best efforts and remain committed to the mission.

7. NO

Nehemiah 6:3 And I sent messengers unto them, saying, I am doing a great work, so that I cannot come down: why should the work cease, whilst I leave it, and come down to you?

Knowing when to say “no” is crucial. Nehemiah refused distractions, focusing on the essential work. Prioritizing tasks and setting boundaries helps maintain focus and drive progress.

8. ONE

Nehemiah 8:1 And all the people gathered themselves together as one man into the street that was before the water gate; and they spake unto Ezra the scribe to bring the book of the law of Moses, which the Lord had commanded to Israel.

Unity is critical to sustaining momentum. Nehemiah gathered the people as one to listen to the law, fostering a sense of community and shared purpose. Unified efforts lead to more substantial, more cohesive progress.

9. MET

Nehemiah 12:27-28 And at the dedication of the wall of Jerusalem they sought the Levites out of all their places, to bring them to Jerusalem, to keep the dedication with gladness, both with thanksgivings, and with singing, with cymbals, psalteries, and with harps. 28 And the sons of the singers gathered themselves together, both out of the plain country round about Jerusalem, and from the villages of Netophathi;

Celebrating milestones is essential. When the wall was completed, Nehemiah organized a joyful dedication. Acknowledging and celebrating achievements boosts morale and solidifies the success of your efforts.

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In conclusion, building and sustaining momentum begins with a spark of inspiration. From that moment, it’s about seizing the inspiration and turning it into action. Each step, from setting goals to celebrating achievements, is a part of the journey towards progress and success. Nehemiah’s story offers timeless lessons on how to find and use inspiration to create and maintain positive momentum in any endeavor.