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JOSHUA ASSUMED THE LEADERSHIP OF ISRAEL
FRIDAY, DECEMBER 31
Deuteronomy 34:9-12

Numbers 27:18-23

 

“And he laid his hands upon him,
and gave him a charge, as the

LORD commanded…”

 

JOSHUA ASSUMED THE LEADERSHIP OF ISRAEL
 
Joshua is described as a man full of spirit and wisdom. He is commonly referred to as the son of Nun to differentiate him from other biblical characters with the same name. He belonged to the tribe of Ephraim, the younger son of Joseph who was given the birthright by Jacob when he adopted them. Joshua’s appointment to leadership did not happen overnight. He had stood the test of time. In Exodus 17, he was a commander in fighting the Amalekites. In Numbers 13-14, he was one of the spies that brought a good report about occupying the land of Canaan. Also, in Numbers he was named the successor of Moses.
 
In Numbers 27:18-19, we read: “And the LORD said unto Moses, Take thee Joshua the son of Nun, a man in whom is the spirit, and lay thine hand upon him; And set him before Eleazar the priest, and before all the congregation; and give him a charge in their sight.” The Lord led and everything was fitted into its place when that time arrived. Joshua’s abilities came into effect as he took over the reins of leadership from Moses. Israel was also ready to obey Joshua as they had obeyed Moses. This is a very important element for any leadership. Submission is enshrined in the fifth commandment. God’s prior choice of Joshua to take over Moses’ position made the transition smooth. Moses laid his hands on Joshua again as he handed over the leadership to him. His leadership ushered in a new era. The baton had been passed to a new generation. The nation was not destitute of any guidance as they marched into the Promised Land. They entered a new era.
 
The transition that was witnessed was an assurance of stability, and the nation had to achieve its goal. The Lord raised a worthy leader. All civil and spiritual leadership comes from the Lord. Due honour is to be given to all leaders. Beyond this is the leadership of our eternal Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ. Whosoever believes in Him shall have everlasting life. Do you believe?
 
THOUGHT: The stability of a nation rests on God who sets it up.

PRAYER: Father, give a meek spirit to our leaders that we may have peace.

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