Read Numbers 27:12-23
I wonder how Moses felt in that moment of commissioning Joshua to be his replacement. Gratefulness was surely part of it for all that God had allowed him to do over these years. A sense of relief could also have helped Moses, knowing that the people would not be left “like sheep without a shepherd.”. Even to the end, Moses was the ultimate leader thinking of the people he had been charged to care for.
What a life Moses had lived. The first five books of the Bible, known as the Pentateuch, are all authored by Moses. In the pages of the Bible we learn Moses’ story from birth to death. God used him in mighty, almost unbelievable ways. What a faithful example Moses has set for us.
Moses always went before the LORD directly. In those days, it was unheard of for a man to get that close to God and live to tell about it. Their relationship was intimate. God said the new leader would do things a little differently. God had thought of everything to make sure Joshua and Eleazar, the priest were equipped and ready to understand how things would work with Joshua at the helm. The people, too, were made aware.
New leadership means new ways of doing things. Have you ever been put in a leadership position following a great and successful leader? It can be intimidating. I can relate to the feelings of panic Joshua may have been feeling at this moment.
We’ve heard about Joshua before. He was one who had already explored the Promised Land, bringing back a positive report and displaying his faith in God for their expected success. This text tells us God was already working in Joshua. God’s direction to Moses said, “Take Joshua son of Nun, who has the Spirit in him, and lay your hands on him.” The Old Testament mentions the Spirit often, many times referring to how the Spirit helps certain individuals for their ministry or God assigned mission. We can tap into the Holy Spirit’s power for our own God-honoring purposes.
What a privilege Moses had had to have such access to God. The new leader, Joshua, was also equipped with a plan for divine communication. When you think about it, we have that very same privilege. Because of Jesus opened the gates of heaven for us, we can seek the Father and make our petitions known. We can take our questions and need for direction to God in prayer. Do we ever take that honor for granted?
Let’s pray. Lord, thank you for your great wisdom and how you pour into me every day. Being in constant communion with you is such an honor and privilege. Help me to never take you or time in your presence for granted. Help me do better at making you the center of my life. Help me to be the best leader I can be in those life situations you put me in. I look forward to watching you work through me. May I always follow your lead. In Jesus’ name. Amen.
