What does Nehemiah 5:15 mean?

The governors before me had burdened the people, taking food, wine, and forty silver coins from them every day. Even their assistants acted like they were in charge. But I didn’t do that, because I respected God. Nehemiah 5:15 - Modern Text Bible

(He contrasts his leadership with his predecessors, who exploited the people, while he chose not to out of reverence for God.)