The essence of leadership

The essence of leadership lies in doing two things. (1) Going first! 'Cross over ahead of your fellow Israelites' (Joshua 1:14 NIV). This means that if God has called us to lead, we step out in faith and go first. This requires believing in ourselves and our mission. God told Joshua, 'Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged, for the Lord your God will be with you wherever you go' (Joshua 1:9 NIV). We don't need all the answers upfront. Our confidence comes from knowing that God is with us - and ahead of us.

(2) Taking others with us. 'Cross...ahead of your brothers to help them' (Joshua 1:14 NCV). We may wonder, 'How long do I have to keep helping and investing in this person?' The answer is, 'until they take the land the Lord their God is giving them' (Joshua 1:15 NCV). Some people will serve when they're made to; others serve in a crisis. But servant-hearted people initiate service. They see the need, seize the opportunity and serve, knowing they're serving God. Therefore it's great to serve with gladness (see Psalm 100:2).



So what now? True leadership means going first and taking others with you. And the reward: God said, 'After that, you may go back and occupy your own land, which...the Lord gave you' (Joshua 1:15 NIV).





— SCRIPTURE —

'Cross over ahead of your fellow Israelites.' Joshua 1:14 NIV
— SOULFOOD —

Lev 24:17-22, Deut 15:7-11, Matt 5:38-48