Joshua and Leadership

I love watching people grow into leaders. I love the process. Watching a young, aspiring musician turn into a humble, worship leader, for me, is simply remarkable. In the Old Testament, Joshua is a perfect example of someone who started small and grew into massive leadership for God (Deut. 31:14-23). Looking deeper into the life of Joshua, I noticed three things that prepared him for this leadership role that can help a leader wherever they are in their leadership journey.

First, Joshua was born a slave. He worked in the trenches for the Egyptians as an Israelite slave. He carried bricks, made cement, and would groan under the burden of slavery. Joshua knew he had leadership potential, but God was using that time to teach and shape him. Throughout that season, God was listening to Joshua's cries for help (Exodus 2:23-24). Many leaders need a time of surrender before God can use them. Vernon Whaley said that God was using trials to reveal His faithfulness in Joshua’s life (Called To Worship).

Second, Joshua was mentored by Moses. Once Moses came to Egypt to lead the children of Israel out of the land of slavery, Joshua was ready to step up and serve. Under the direction of Moses, Joshua was promoted to lead the armies of Israel. As they traveled towards the Promised Land, Moses mentored and taught leadership to Joshua. The apostle Paul did the same thing with Timothy. Paul taught Timothy to present himself to God as one approved, just like a workman who does not need to be ashamed and who correctly handles the word of truth (2 Timothy 2:15). Many leaders need a season of being mentored. Joshua was blessed by God to have Moses as his mentor.

Third, Joshua made the right decision in face of adversity. Moses sent twelve spies to research the Promised Land. Ten of the spies came back with a negative report. Joshua had an opportunity to conform with the rest of the leaders around him and agree that it would be better to not inhabit the land. However, along with Caleb, he boldly declared that God would be with His people. Joshua declared that God would direct the Israelites into this land flowing with milk and honey (Numbers 14:8). Joshua's focus was on God's plan, not his plan. Because of his zeal, God blessed Joshua's leadership.

Joshua is a wonderful example to me. Through every circumstance that Joshua went through, the glory of God was revealed in and through his life. “But as for me and my house, we will serve the Lord (Joshua 24:15).” Might I always model Joshua’s passion for Christ, hunger for His Word, and disply Christ-like humility in everything I do.