Leading

“Moses my servant is dead. Therefore, the time has come for you to lead these people, the Israelites, across the Jordan River into the land I am giving them."
Joshua 1:2 (NLT)

There comes a time in every generation to take up the mantle of the previous generation.  In this case, one of the greatest leaders has passed on into eternity – Moses.  Joshua receives news from the Lord that he is to take up the special privilege of leading God’s people into the promise land.
There are several lessons we can learn from Moses and Joshua’s life.  First, leadership is something precious that God gives few of His people.  It’s not a right someone has, but rather a sober opportunity and task that God gives to those He chooses.  We should never lead people with a harsh attitude or a condescending spirit, but with humility and respect.
Secondly, the position of leadership is temporary.  It’s only for a season.  In due time the Lord will pass that position onto someone else.  Moses, as great as a man as he was, still died and it was Joshua whom the Lord chose to finally lead the people into the promise land.  With that in mind, we need to pour into and train the next generation of leaders by being good examples and allowing them observe what it means to be a leader.  Joshua was very close Moses and was able to observe his prayer life and his relationship with God.  He saw Moses have to make difficult decisions and even observed his failures. 
Thirdly, don’t miss the opportunities to watch and observe your leaders right now because God just might call you as He did Joshua by saying “the time has come for you to lead”.  Don’t miss the chance to grow in your spiritual walk and to be discipled by those who are more mature in the faith than you are.

Anchored in Christ,
Aaron R. Force