Any positive change in us usually comes through the words and actions of other people who became a catalyst for change in our lives. They inspired and sometimes even pushed us beyond what we believed possible.
Scientifically, a catalyst is a substance which increases the rate of a chemical reaction without itself undergoing any permanent chemical change. Someone who precipitates an event or change is also considered a catalyst. It defines someone with the capacity to quickly cause change or bring action.
Just to be clear, that’s not me! At least not yet!
Our prime example of a catalyst will always be Jesus Christ. Our relationship with Him brings transformative change — in some areas instantaneous, in others a slow process.
In reading Nehemiah’s story, I clearly see a man who became a catalyst for change. While an exile in a foreign nation, he was told how his homeland was in a desperate situation.
“…Those who survived the exile and are back in the province are in great trouble and disgrace. The wall of Jerusalem is broken down, and its gates have been burned with fire.”
Nehemiah 1:3
Something needed to change! Somebody needed to lead the way!
Intuitive and Passionate
Catalysts consistently display several qualities. These characteristics rise within the heart of this humble servant, Nehemiah.
“When I heard these things, I sat down and wept. For some days I mourned and fasted and prayed before the God of heaven.“
Nehemiah 1:4
Nehemiah could not rest knowing the plight of his people. Intuitively and passionately he first sought the favor of God. What difference could a simple man make? With God, all the difference in the world!
Though afraid, Nehemiah approached the king, seeking both a temporary release from his duties and full provision for his mission. Not a small request! Soon, the king sent Nehemiah off with armed guards to guide him safely on his journey. Before telling anybody about his God-shaped plan, Nehemiah inspected the broken and burnt walls of the city.
How his heart must have ached! Catalyst people sense and feel things in a way that others don’t. They also have a contagious enthusiasm for the task ahead. Because Nehemiah sought God’s counsel first, he found favor with the people.
“…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.” …They replied, “Let us start rebuilding.” So they began this good work.”
Nehemiah 2:17-18
How long had they stumbled over the broken rubble, feeling their situation was permanent? Yet one man, a catalyst for change, inspired and motived an entire community into action.
Communicators
A catalyst for change possesses the ability to clearly communicate. They articulate a plan of action in a way that inspires vision and insights hope.
Nehemiah declared what others feared to say, lifting the confidence of those around him. He didn’t hesitate when opposition arose but easily quenched the naysayers.
“I answered them by saying, ‘The God of heaven will give us success. We his servants will start rebuilding, but as for you, you have no share in Jerusalem or any claim or historic right to it.‘”
Nehemiah 2:20
As opposition grew, so did Nehemiah’s clear and creative way to find solutions to continue the work. Discouragement and criticism came from both outside and inside the walls. However, Nehemiah didn’t allow either to hinder the work.
“After I looked things over, I stood up and said to the nobles, the officials and the rest of the people, “Don’t be afraid of them. Remember the Lord, who is great and awesome, and fight for your families, your sons and your daughters, your wives and your homes.”
Nehemiah 4:14
Nehemiah spoke with authority and wisdom. We find no evidence of wavering in his commitment to the task.
Responsible
I’m not sure who said it first, “If it’s to be, it’s up to me!” What a great attitude! Nehemiah lived this motto.
Where did Nehemiah develop such confident, solution-based thinking, and a step-to-the-plate attitude? He was an exile after all. Servants don’t usually make the list of significant people. Serving in the counsel of royalty perhaps shaped him in part. But only with and through God can any man or woman rise to their full potential. On his knees, again and again, Nehemiah gained strength and direction from God. God gave Nehemiah the grace and wisdom to both begin and finish this great work.
Nehemiah’s chief concern wasn’t the wall, however. His heart ached for the people. Throughout the rebuild and beyond, Nehemiah served and cared for the poorest and most disadvantaged among them. He became angry to learn how the wealthy oppressed their poorer neighbors.
“…What you are doing is not right. Shouldn’t you walk in the fear of our God to avoid the reproach of our Gentile enemies? I and my brothers and my men are also lending the people money and grain. But let us stop charging interest!”
Nehemiah 5:9-10
Those who become a catalyst for change, see people others ignore, giving sacrificially to improve their plight. While taking care of the poor, Nehemiah also fed “a hundred and fifty Jews and officials” at his table. Can you imagine that kind of lavish generosity?
“It it’s to be, it’s up to me!” catalysts say, as they open their hearts and wallets to others.
Give Credit to God
The truest characteristic of a catalyst for change is how quickly and easily they give credit to God and others. Even Nehemiah’s enemies admitted the rebuilding of the wall was only the work of God (Nehemiah 6:16).
“So the wall was completed … in fifty-two days.”
Nehemiah 6:15
What an astonishing accomplishment! Upon completion of the work, Nehemiah orchestrates a joyous celebration and dedication of the wall. Two choirs led the way, singing and giving thanks to God for His intervention, protection, and provision.
A true catalyst for change seeks no glory for themselves. They applaud those who have partnered with them in the work, and through their humble example, they influence others to do the same.
Today, may we, too, give credit to God for the things He has accomplished through us. May we faithfully acknowledge the catalyst-people who have enriched our lives. May we humble ourselves to appreciate those around us and the Presence of God within us who have given us the courage and grace to do all things.
We are never too young or old to begin. With God’s help, you, and I, can become catalysts for change.
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One more good read on becoming a difference maker:
Boldness! Difference Makers Possess a Different Spirit