Pastor Bell's Words To Live By

Then they answered Joshua, “Whatever you have commanded us we will do, and wherever you send us we will go. Just as we fully obeyed Moses, so we will obey you. Only may the LORD your God be with you as he was with Moses. Whoever rebels against your word and does not obey your words, whatever you may command them, will be put to death. Only be strong and courageous!” (Joshua 1:16-18 NIV).

The generic nature of humanity is to be rebellious, however those who are called and come into the kingdom of God are encouraged to be obedient but also to become a critical friend. As we mature we recognise that God does speak to those he has placed in authority. This authority is not a ‘dictatorship’, therefore a leader must also be strong and courageous but one who courts counsel.

All leaders need governance and people who can reign them in should they become autocratic. Although the Lord appeared to those who were in the company of Moses in his time, he spoke to Moses directly. So the 70 elders who ate and drank in the presence of the Lord saw some of his glory but never had face to face contact with him (Ex. 24:9-11). Similarly with Joshua, God directs him about what to do which he relays to the elders who in turn relays it to the people.

without vision people fail

Progressive leadership ensures that continuity is maintained and also that the vision is fulfilled. From our reading today we see that once the vision is shared, the elders are committed to obeying what God is telling their leaders and to go where God is taking them.

Today, obedience is imperative for all those who want to fulfil the purposes of God in their lifetime. We are all called as servants so find your place and serve, but be strong and very courageous.

Read Joshua 3