Scripture
Deuteronomy 3:28-“But commission Joshua and encourage him and strengthen him, for he shall go across leading these people, and he will give to them, as an inheritance, the land which you will see. So we remained in the valley opposite Beth-peor.”
Observation
Deuteronomy is one of those books that leaks leadership lessons. Here we see the passing of one generation to the next. Moses had to let go of the keys that God had given him to Joshua but Moses grieved within the transition that needed to take place. Yet this was a successful pass to Joshua because every great leader raises up their next.
Application
Lately, this idea of the older generation passing off to the next has been on my heart for the past months. I take a look at people like Pastor Wayne, Pastor John Tilton, Pastor Richard and Mary Waialeale, and the many great staff leaders I work with at New Hope, it brings this sadness and joy knowing some of these legendary leaders are going to end their time one day. Moses must have been filled with mixed emotions about ending his leadership and Joshua must have been overwhelmed with anxiety over what he is about to take on. Yet God knows when it is time.
Even if it is not the same leaders God desires for every generation to embrace the God-given vision that He speaks. I am so grateful for the many leaders that have poured into my life and knowing the trails they blazed before is only to be continued for the next generation to come. I desire to be a young Moses for the later Joshuas to rise up. I don’t want there to ever be a moment where I am not mentoring, discipling, or Equipping someone.
Prayer
Lord,
I pray that I continue to desire to learn from my leaders and mentors. I pray to the Lord that I honor them and serve the best I can. I thank you Lord that you have put me in great hands. I pray to God that I be intentional in the building of others as well. May I keep seeking new leaders who desire to embrace reaching more for your son Jesus. Amen.
