“I gave the responsibility of governing Jerusalem to my brother Hanani, along with Hananiah, the commander of the fortress, for he was a faithful man who feared God more than most.” (Nehemiah 7:2, NLT)

The wall of Jerusalem was completed, and the doors had been hung in the gates. Within the walls, they had more area than people. Part of the problem was that many of the houses were still in ruins. Nehemiah wanted to begin an inner-city rebuilding project. But to give this his full attention he needed to delegate the responsibility of governing Jerusalem to someone else. He decided to put his brother Hanani in charge, who had been the one to report to Nehemiah the condition of Jerusalem back in chapter 1. Nehemiah also appointed Hananiah who was the commander of the fortress because he was a faithful man who feared God more than most.

These are great qualifications for any leader. The fear of the LORD is the beginning of wisdom (Proverbs 9:10) and the hatred of evil (Proverbs 8:13). It is also clean, enduring forever (Psalm 19:9). As for faithfulness, the apostle Paul wrote to the Corinthians:

“Moreover, it is required of stewards that they be found faithful.” (1 Corinthians 4:2, ESV)

God is looking for such leaders today. These men needed to watch over the city gates to make sure the enemy did not enter. Our enemy, the devil, is always looking for a way to enter our hearts and the hearts of those whom we love. He comes as a thief to steal, kill and destroy (John 10:10). We must remember the words of Peter:

“Be sober, be vigilant; because your adversary the devil walks about like a roaring lion, seeking whom he may devour. Resist him, steadfast in the faith, knowing that the same sufferings are experienced by your brotherhood in the world.” (1 Peter 5:8–9, NKJV)

Do you want to be used by God? Then start by fearing God and being faithful in the little things he sets before you. Be vigilant, watching yourself and being alert to the devil’s devices. If you are faithful in a little, then God will entrust you with much more (Luke 19:17).