16
LEAD my heart to LEAD Your people
Rod Shimabukuro23The Lord gave this command to Joshua son of Nun: “Be strong and courageous, for you will bring the Israelites into the land I promised them on oath, and I myself will be with you.” Deuteronomy 31
I thought this passage intriguing and tense because it is sandwiched between God predicting Israel’s rebellion, rejection and idolatry and His final instructions to Moses before his death. Intriguing because the younger leader Joshua, hears from God Himself, huge promises to be fulfilled for a nation. Tense because I wonder what Joshua’s thoughts, feelings and reaction were, being placed in such a leadership position and situation. I hear it like, “You gotta suck it up son! It’s going to be a wild ride into the Promise Land. I’m going to keep My word and fulfill My promise - I’ll be with you.”
WOW! The tone of this section is intense! For Moses knowing he’s going to die, writing a song, the weight of instructions for the transition. For Joshua, he knows what he’s inheriting, but it’s all going to be on his shoulders. He saw what Moses encountered and experienced! … and what are the people thinking hearing and experiencing!
My simple and challenging take away: Leadership under God, over people is not easy. It is rewarding because I’m living for, dealing with, serving and fulfilling God’s commands. The words to Joshua, echo in my heart as strength, as a warning, as a command.
The people God has called me to lead are Awesome, Incredible - at Manoa! We have our few struggles, but absolutely, positively nothing like Moses and Joshua! Oh my!!! But internally, the fight is on - my internal little sins of rebellion, obstinance and idolatry. I’m not fighting against God, a nation, other people’s sins…I’m fighting me, at times.
This devotion is turning internal. Before or while I’m leading people (great people that is!:), I’m strengthened to be strong and courageous - KNOWING that I know…My God is With Me - and He will fulfill His Promises…in, through me…!
God! Oh God!!! Help me to LEAD my Heart and Life - that I may lead Your people, into Your promises. May my leadership not be about what I desire ,what fulfills me - but what pleases You and fulfills Your Kingdom Purposes! I Love You!
