READING: Deuteronomy 33:1-34:12, Joshua 1:1-2:24
In the world of church growth and leadership where I daily live, we often talk about the transitional struggle for a new pastor following a long-term, beloved pastor in a local church. The latter is often a hero (especially after he’s stepped down), and the former must honor his predecessor even while walking in his own shoes. It’s so often a struggle that a pastorate following a long-termer many times becomes a de facto interim pastorate.
Given these realities, I cannot imagine what it must have been like to follow Moses as the leader of the people of God. He was the “servant of the Lord” (Deut 34:5), a man the Lord knew “face-to-face” (Deut 34:10), a prophet like no other. He performed mighty acts “in the sight of all Israel” (Deut 34:12). Community mourning for the death of a leader would make sense in general, but that was especially so when the people mourned Moses’ passing for 30 days.
Then, Joshua was to take the lead. God’s servant, Moses, was dead, and it was Joshua’s turn to step up to the plate. How do you follow someone like Moses? You rely on the wisdom God gives you (Deut 34:9), obey His word without exception (Josh 1:7-8), and march forward in the strength and courage God gives you. When you know He is with you, you don’t worry about following a long-term leader; you simply commit to following Him.
PERSONAL REFLECTION: What is God calling you to do today that will require strength and courage?
TODAY’S PRAYER: “God, I commit to walk in your ways today, never turning to the right or the left.”
TOMORROW’S READING: Joshua 3:1-6:27
