Good morning people who lead with integrity

Joshua 1:17,18b 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…Only be strong and courageous.

The Israelites committed to following Joshua as they had followed Moses (remember, these were the children of those who died in the desert). It’s essential that we make a commitment to follow our leaders, as we follow the Lord.

But it’s also essential that leaders lead well. In fact, the Israelites made two specific requests of their leader and I think it is great advice for all of us. Here are the two requirements.

1. Walk close to God.

Nothing can replace intimacy with God. Leaders need to stay dependent upon the Source of life for their wisdom on how to lead in love. Busyness robs many leaders of living up to their God-given potential. There will always be ‘reasons’ why we can’t spend enough time with God but we must have a revelation of this truth: intimacy with God is our greatest calling and not just a means to an end. God doesn’t just want us to spend time with Him so we can serve Him. He wants us to spend time with Him because He wants to spend time with us. How’s your intimacy with God going?

2. Be strong and courageous.

The Israelites wanted a leader who led strongly. They were not looking for someone to dominate them or control them but rather someone who was confident in their God, due to intimacy, and as a result, modelled the way to live and be secure. They wanted a leader who did not shrink back due to intimidation and fear. They wanted a leader with a conquest spirit and not a survival spirit. Confidence in God creates confidence in leaders. When leaders know the way to go because they have heard from God, they can lead with confidence. This is how people want to be led. How is your confidence in your God and in your calling?