When we talk about vision, we often speak from a business perspective, but the same biblical principles work in our families. If you want your family to experience something different, then you need to articulate a new vision as a leader in your family, so the family sees the direction you’re all headed.
Nehemiah did this effectively. Nehemiah talked to the city officials. And before he moves to get the people involved, he goes through the 6 Critical Moves for Solving Life Problems, so he could share the vision with the people. Nehemiah said to them, “You see the trouble we are in: Jerusalem lies in ruins, and its gates have been burned with fire. Come, let us rebuild the wall of Jerusalem, and we will no longer be in disgrace” (Nehemiah 2:17 NIV).
Nehemiah incorporated three keys to sharing a new vision successfully.
- Share the problem.
He reminded the people, even though it was obvious to them, the walls were down, and they were living in reproach. Perhaps it had become normal after 60 or 70 years, as generations to generation lived in the mess. But Nehemiah pointed the problem out to them.We can live with a problem so long we start to ignore it. It’s necessary to elevate the problem to a level that they remember they once cared about the problem. When you share a vision it’s important to demonstrate you care. Don’t just share the facts but point to the heart of the impact of the problem and what needs to be changed. - Present the plan.
Nehemiah told the people, “We are going to rebuild the wall.” He was very clear when he communicated what the vision was of the people. So, be clear with your family. Tell them, “This is what we are going to do ….” - Create a picture of the prize.
Nehemiah described what his visions looked like – that they would no longer live in reproach.When you have a powerful vision God has laid on your heart that you need to share with a group of people – your own family, your church group or in your business – this is a great way to share the problem, the plan and the prize.
Sharing a bold vision during times of change is a dangerous moment. People don’t like change unless they’re the ones doing the changing. The most important thing to do in order to be successful is to over communicate, continue to communicate, listen and ask questions.
