Thursday, August 6, 2009

Lessons From Joshua

Joshua was the general who led Israel to the promised land. During his reign, there was total support from the people. He never experienced the insurgence Moses had. Even, his closest rival-Caleb bowed to his leadership. What could have contributed to his immense success as a leader?

How easy is it for you to be under the tutelage of a superior for 40 years? Joshua did just that. He was the servant of Moses for 40 years. That was 40 years of total submission to higher authority. He operated at the background. His capacity to serve was very rare. While other leaders chose to rebel against Moses, he kept his cool and remained loyal to the annointed man of God. He never knew it would be his turn one day to lead the people(Aaron was always there with Moses).
Joshua prepared well for leadership role. His education was complete. He never jumped the gun.
Many there are today who are not patient enough to learn from superior authorities before going it alone. Some new generation churches emerged from act of rebellion. Such leaders cannot expect to go scot free. What a man sows he shall reap.
If you have been found wanting in this, quickly reconcile with your leader and mend your ways.
We have so much to learn from Joshua. Lessons could be derived from the acronym of his name as follows:

J-Just: When Joshua was sent as a spy with 11 others, he never wavered in his faith. He knew that 'The just shall live by his faith'. He led Caleb to instill faith in others contrary to the false reports from the despondent 11.

O-Obedient: Yes. Joshua was an obedient follower. He performed all assignment given to him excellently. His loyalty was total.

S-Self-contrained: Can you despise his level of discipline? As a warrior he never entangled himself with the affairs of this world. He lived like an eagle of God.

H-Humble:His patience for 40 years under tutelage speak volumes of his humility. No trace of pride was found in him.

U-Untiring:Joshua never compromised his faith in the God of Israel. He defended his faith when it matters. He never looked back like Lot's wife.

A-Above reproach: No one had anything against him till he finished his course. At the twilight of his ministry, he made it know to the people that 'as for me and my household, we will serve the Lord'.

The question to you is this. What kind of a follower are you? How are you learning from your leader? If you follow the good example of Joshua, you will profit thereby.
Dissociate yourself from any rebellion in your church and wait for your time. Keep working for God and serving His people. It shall be well with you.

Text: Num 13:16, Ex 17:10, Ex 24:13.

Soul Searching Question
If you drop dead tonight, where will you spend eternity?

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