Sadly, the world has witnessed tyrants and oppressors who loot people and live in luxury. In the time of Nehemiah, around 445-430 BC, the governors were oppressing Israel with excessive taxes. Governors charged 40 shekels of silver as allowance for a life of luxury (Nehemiah 5:15). Selfish rulers who love luxury are a curse for that nation. Nehemiah was a blessing to the Nation and for the glory of God.
Forfeiting privileges: Neither Nehemiah nor his brothers set a bad example. They had the right to tax people for their expenses, but forfeited that right, so that the work of God, building the wall, advances. One who preaches could live by the gospel, but Paul also forfeited his rights, like Nehemiah, for the sake of the gospel. (I Corinthians 9:1-15)
Fear of God: Nehemiah declares that forsaking his rights was right and pleasing in the sight of God. Nehemiah feared God; hence, he sought to please God and received wisdom from God. He refused to follow the examples of predecessors, the practice of his peers, and also the norm of worldly leaders. Those who have the right relationship with God will have the right relationship with other people.
Oppressive taxes: Governors before Nehemiah demanded 40 shekels of silver, which was several months’ wages of common people. To keep the governors rich and to lead a luxurious lifestyle, the common people have to sacrifice several months’ wages. The people experience an economic crisis. People were forced to see their children into slavery, mortgage their lands to pay taxes to the governors. One who indulges in luxury is living dead. (I Timothy 5:6)
Generous Nehemiah: As a self-sacrificing and caring shepherd for his people, Nehemiah refused to take the governor’s food allowance of oppressive tax for twelve years. He did not want to be a burden to his people. Nehemiah paid for his own food, food for his officials and guests who were about 150. His daily expenses included an ox, six sheep, various fowl, and an abundance of wine every ten days.
Do I have an oppressive mindset or an uplifting and empowering mindset?