When Portia Simpson Miller said that she was going to be the government's worst nightmare, many persons, including myself, thought it was just one of the many silly things that usually come out of her mouth.

I personally saw her as one who engaged her mouth before engaging her mind. Time has taught me that I was wrong. Portia, the PNP and their myriad of great distracters obviously have a well-organised nightmare machinery in place.

Religious orientation

The prime minister needs to, therefore, pull on his religious orientation to counter this cascade of political undermining. In fact, contemporary leaders can learn several valuable lessons from studying Sanballat's assaults, threats and schemes on Nehemiah (Nehemiah 4:1-23;6:1-19).

Nehemiah had to contend with the same kind of pest that plagues the prime minister and the current administration: distracters who torment and do everything possible to interfere in the work of restoring a battered economy. Sanballat played this distracting role in the life of Nehemiah. He knew that the repair of the wall and the restoration of Jerusalem would bring a major shift in commerce and political power. Sanaballat liked the status quo and had a vested interest in Jerusalem remaining in disrepair.

Leadership and character

The contrast between Nehemiah and Sanballat could hardly be more pronounced. Nehemiah's leadership and character countered every assault of Sanballat and provided the impetus for his godly vision to be completed.

Be encouraged, Mr Prime Minister. This tactic of fear, entrapment and political man-oeuvring could very well be an indication that you are on the right track.

I am, etc.,

Pastor Daren Larmond

optilearn1@yahoo.com