Joshua’s leadership work was nearly done.  The land was divided, and the people were settled. But before he died, he used wisdom to cast a vision for the next generation.   

¹⁴ “Now fear the Lord and serve him with all faithfulness. Throw away the gods your ancestors worshiped beyond the Euphrates River and in Egypt, and serve the Lord. ¹⁵ But if serving the Lord seems undesirable to you, then choose for yourselves this day whom you will serve, whether the gods your ancestors served beyond the Euphrates, or the gods of the Amorites, in whose land you are living. But as for me and my household, we will serve the Lord.” …. ²⁵On that day Joshua made a covenant for the people, and there at Shechem he reaffirmed for them decrees and laws. ²⁶And Joshua recorded these things in the Book of the Law of God. Then he took a large stone and set it up there under the oak near the holy place of the LORD. ²⁷“See!” he said to all the people. “This stone will be a witness against us. It has heard all the words the LORD has said to us. It will be a witness against you if you are untrue to your God.” ²⁸Then Joshua dismissed the people, each to their own inheritance (Joshua 24:14-15, 25-28 NIV).

In his final leadership action, Joshua casts a vision for the Israelites to renew their commitment to follow God.  He does this with wisdom in three powerful ways.

Joshua used wisdom to cast vision by recalling the past. 

Joshua recalls their history. He spends much of his farewell address reminding them of the ways that God has led them to the place they now are.  He shares the stories of the past to provide vision for the future. He wisely links future vision to past events. 

Some leaders only look to the future and paint a glorious picture of what can be with no connection to the past. But serving leaders link future vision to the stories that brought them here. They find vision from the past and project that forward into an even better future. They remind the people they lead that they are rooted in what has come before. 

Joshua used wisdom to cast vision by setting a personal example.

Joshua called the people to recommit themselves to following God and then made his well-known declaration, “But as for me and my household, we will serve the Lord.” He wisely leads by example. He will pursue the vision no matter what the choice of the people is. This commitment and personal engagement is a strong motivation to the people and they also agree to serve the Lord.

Some leaders call others to a high level of commitment, but they don’t get personally involved. They ask others to pay a price they are unwilling to pay. But serving leaders cast vision by their own action. They move before calling others to move. 

Joshua used wisdom to cast vision by using visual reminders.

Joshua set up “a large stone” as a visual reminder of the commitment they were making. He wanted them to recall their commitment every time they walked past this stone. He wisely understood that a picture is worth a thousand words.

Some leaders rely only on words, hoping that repetition will make the vision stick. But serving leaders add visual reminders to the vision. They paint word pictures; they share stories and give examples that help the vision to stick in the hearts and minds of those they lead. They stir their hearts before asking for their hands.

For further reflection and discussion:

• When I share vision, how do I root it in the past? Even when significant changes are needed, have I found ways to look at the past to help articulate the way forward?
• In what ways do I model the vision I ask others to work towards? Can I consistently invite people to follow my example? What impact does that have on my leadership?
• How do I help people visualize the vision? Are there physical objects that I could use to remind people of the vision as Joshua did? Do I tell stories and give personal examples that bring the vision to life? What other ways can I help connect people’s emotions to the vision? 
• In addition to these reflections above from Joshua’s life, read all of Joshua 23 and 24. Reflect on how he wisely used his farewell speech and covenant renewal to project a vision for the future. What do I learn from his example that I can apply to my own leadership?       

Until next time, yours on the journey,

Jon Byler

Few things need wisdom like trying to divide an inheritance among siblings! Joshua faced this on a national scale as he led the Israelites through the process of dividing up the land into tribal portions.  Joshua employed wisdom in this potentially explosive moment and offers serving leaders practical wisdom for navigating divisive situations.

⁴ Appoint three men from each tribe. I will send them out to make a survey of the land and to write a description of it, according to the inheritance of each. Then they will return to me. ⁵ You are to divide the land into seven parts. Judah is to remain in its territory on the south and the tribes of Joseph in their territory on the north. ⁶ After you have written descriptions of the seven parts of the land, bring them here to me and I will cast lots for you in the presence of the Lord our God (Joshua 18:4-6, NIV).

Joshua employed wisdom by involving everyone.

Joshua instructed the people, “Appoint three men from each tribe.” He involved the people in selecting the leaders who would divide the land into parts. Every tribe had equal representation. Every man carried with him the mandate to get the best portion for their tribe! Joshua wisely created a process in which no one was excluded.

Some leaders face divisive issues and make decisions using their own experience and expertise. But serving leaders recognize that divisive issues require inclusive practices. They wisely pull key people into the decision-making process, ensuring that all voices will be heard.

Joshua employed wisdom by delegating authority.

Joshua gave authority to the men who were chosen, “you are to divide….” Their work was to survey the remaining land and divide it into portions that were equal in value. Undoubtedly, as they traveled through the land they were carefully observing what areas had fertile soil, good pastureland, and fortified cities. Every man was carefully looking at what they wanted but also aware that another tribe might get it, so they chose carefully.  In addition, Joshua selected three people to ensure broader representation and that there would not be a tie vote. By wisely delegating the process, Joshua ensured that no one could accuse him of favoritism.

Some leaders fear that the delegation of authority in a divisive issue will create more problems so they delegate less. But serving leaders wisely find ways to delegate authority that creates better outcomes and group support for the process.

Joshua employed wisdom by retaining decision-making power.

While Joshua involved everyone in choosing the leaders and delegated authority to the leaders in dividing the land, he took charge of the final step in the process. “I will cast lots for you….” Under God’s guidance, he would make the final decisions. He recognized that even with the careful process of dividing the land into 7 portions, if he allowed the leaders to choose, there would be more dispute over who received which portion.

Some leaders abdicate their ultimate responsibility to make final decisions and allow others to selfishly influence the outcomes. But serving leaders recognize that after involving people appropriately, they are responsible for making the decision that best serves the vision and mission of the organization. Then, like Joshua, they employ wisdom from God and decide. 

 Serving leaders employ wisdom to turn potential division into unity. 

For further reflection and discussion:

• Reflect on a leadership decision which you are currently facing that is potentially divisive. With that situation in mind, reflect on the three ways Joshua used wisdom (he involved everyone, he delegated authority, and he retained decision-making power). What can you learn from his example and what will you do to lead with wisdom through this situation?

Reflect on Joshua’s decision to allow the leaders to divide the land into 7 portions. What might have happened if Joshua had divided the land without their involvement? What can you learn from this about delegating authority? 

In addition to these reflections from Joshua’s life, consider the following verses from Proverbs that relate to employing wisdom in divisive issues.  Proverbs 6:16-19; 13:10; 15:1, 18; 16:23-24, 28; 17:14; 18:6, 17; 19:11; 29:22.        

Until next time, yours on the journey,

Jon Byler

In the next issue, we’ll look at how Joshua used wisdom in casting vision. 

Joshua led Israel through a series of military campaigns to claim the land God had promised to them. But he didn’t rely on military tactics of his experience—he applied wisdom in his decisions, guided by surrender, obedience and adaptability. Though most serving leaders do not lead armies, they can learn powerful strategy lessons from Joshua’s example.  

 ¹³ Now when Joshua was near Jericho, he looked up and saw a man standing in front of him with a drawn sword in his hand. Joshua went up to him and asked, “Are you for us or for our enemies?” ¹⁴ “Neither,” he replied, “but as commander of the army of the Lord I have now come.” Then Joshua fell facedown to the ground in reverence, and asked him, “What message does my Lord have for his servant?” (Joshua 5:13-14, NIV).

¹³ The seven priests carrying the seven trumpets went forward, marching before the ark of the Lord and blowing the trumpets. The armed men went ahead of them and the rear guard followed the ark of the Lord, while the trumpets kept sounding. ¹⁴ So on the second day they marched around the city once and returned to the camp. They did this for six days (Joshua 6:13-14).

⁹ After an all-night march from Gilgal, Joshua took them by surprise. ¹⁰ The Lord threw them into confusion before Israel, so Joshua and the Israelites defeated them completely at Gibeon (Joshua 10:9-10).

Joshua applied wisdom by surrender.

Before Joshua carried out his first military action he had an encounter with a man blocking his progress. He asked a natural question of the man but was startled when he responded that he was the “commander of the army of the Lord.” Joshua appropriately surrendered! Before he commanded, he surrendered. This was not weakness; it was wisdom.

Many leaders assume that they are in charge and call others to follow. They charge ahead and sometimes ask God to bless their plans. But serving leaders surrender to a higher command. That surrender makes them better commanders.

Joshua applied wisdom by obedient risk taking.

Joshua’s surrender was critical when God gave what seems like foolish and unconventional directions for the battle at Jericho. But Joshua took the risk of moving forward in obedience. He marched around the city for 6 days, then 7 times on the final day, finally giving a united shout. He risked looking foolish losing everything on his first battle!  

Some leaders move forward only when the strategy is logical and clear. But serving leaders are willing to take risks of obedience when they have received instructions from God.

Joshua applied wisdom by embracing change.  

After demonstrating obedience, Joshua still had to learn to embrace change. When Joshua marched around Jericho it took a week. But when he attacked the coalition of kings who were against the Gibeonites, he employed an overnight march and took them by surprise. In many other situations, Joshua embraced change and used different tactics at God’s instruction. He refused to fall into the trap of believing that what worked previously should become the standard practice. He was able and willing to pivot and try new methods.

Some leaders find ways that work and then refuse to consider changes. But serving leaders are willing to consider new ways of accomplishing the mission. Their surrender to God’s instruction is the foundation from which they make decisions. 

For further reflection and discussion:

Have I fully surrendered to the authority of God to direct my life and leadership? What does this look like in my daily leadership practices?

Do I naturally take or avoid risks? How does that impact my leadership? Am I willing to take risks when I clearly hear God’s instruction? What do I do to ensure that I’m able to accurately hear God’s direction?

When is the last time I tried a new approach in my leadership? How open am I to change? How do I determine when change is healthy and when it is a distraction?

In addition to these reflections from Joshua’s life, consider the following examples of his military strategy as well as some from Proverbs: Joshua 6:1-27; 8:1-13; 11:1-9; Proverbs 15:22; 16:3, 9; 24:6   

Until next time, yours on the journey,

Jon Byler

In the next issue, we’ll examine how Joshua employed wisdom in times of division.  

 After a great victory over the city of Jericho, Joshua sent a few of his troops to the small city of Ai, expecting an easy victory. Instead, his army was routed.  Joshua rightly asked God what went wrong and God responded.  

  ¹⁰ The Lord said to Joshua, “Stand up! What are you doing down on your face? ¹¹ Israel has sinned; they have violated my covenant, which I commanded them to keep. They have taken some of the devoted things; they have stolen, they have lied, they have put them with their own possessions. ¹² That is why the Israelites cannot stand against their enemies… ¹⁴ “ ‘In the morning, present yourselves tribe by tribe. The tribe the Lord chooses shall come forward clan by clan; the clan the Lord chooses shall come forward family by family; and the family the Lord chooses shall come forward man by man. ¹⁵ Whoever is caught with the devoted things shall be destroyed by fire, along with all that belongs to him. He has violated the covenant of the Lord and has done an outrageous thing in Israel!’  (Joshua 7:10-12a, 14-15, NIV).

God revealed to Joshua that the reason for the military defeat was a violation of the covenant He had commanded. God’s instructions gave Joshua the wisdom he needed to uphold community with clarify and grace. His example helps serving leaders wisely uphold the standards of their organization.

Joshua utilized wisdom by identifying the standard.

What went wrong? “They have taken some of the devoted things; they have stolen, they have lied…” The standard of obedience was clearly identified and the behaviors that were not consistent with obedience were articulated.  Joshua made a public declaration of what was wrong (see 7:13).

Some leaders don’t clearly articulate their standards yet still hope for the best from people. But serving leaders make the values and standards of the organization clear to everyone. They explain what behavior is acceptable and what is not. They are quick to say, “This is the way we do things here” and “This is not the way we do things here.” Wise leadership begins by clarifying and communicating standards.  

Joshua utilized wisdom by allowing time for change.

The standards were broken and there would be consequences. But Joshua used wisdom in providing a bit of time before the punishment would be applied. In this situation he did not know the person involved. He provided a public announcement that evening and told people to prepare themselves for the following day. The next day there was a public process of finding out who did wrong. Achan, the guilty party, had plenty of time to come forward and admit his mistake and ask for a way to be restored but he did not respond until it was too late.

Some leaders recognize a values violation and immediately respond by implementing consequences such as firing or disciplinary action. But serving leaders care about the people involved and prefer that they change their behavior to align with the standards of the organization. So, they allow some time for the person to change. Ultimately, if there is no change, they continue to serve the organization by upholding the standard which may mean releasing that person. Wisdom provides people time to change and align with the standards of the organization.

Joshua utilized wisdom with consistent enforcement.

“Whoever is caught with the devoted things shall be destroyed by fire….” Joshua wisely enforced the cost of violation of the standards, in this case using capital punishment! While today’s consequences look different, leaders still face hard decisions, sometimes needing to ‘fire’ those who are not willing to change.  

Some leaders overlook violations of standards and hope that over time things will improve. But serving leaders take action to ensure that standards are consistently enforced. They model the standards and require that everyone in the organization also align with these values. Wisdom requires that standards are uniformly enforced.  

For further reflection and discussion:

Read the entire account of Joshua and the experience at Ai (Joshua 7:1-8:28). What additional insights about upholding standards do you gain from this story?

Are the standards in my organization clearly identified? Does everyone understand what behaviors are expected and what will not be tolerated? Do I regularly remind people of our standards? Am I currently aware of someone who is not upholding our standards? If so, when will I address this?  

When standards are not upheld in my organization do I allow enough time for people to change? Do I allow too much time? What changes should I make to apply wisdom in the timing of addressing broken standards?

How consistently do I uphold my organization’s standards in my own life? Are there areas in which I need to make a change before expecting others to follow? Are there times I am tempted to accept a violation from one person that I would not accept from another? What can I do to be more consistent in enforcing my organizational standards?

In addition to these reflections from Joshua’s life, consider the following verses from Proverbs, the book of wisdom, that relate to wisely upholding standards: Proverbs 3:11-12; 9:8-9; 10:9, 17; 11:3; 12:1, 22; 13:8; 15:5, 12, 31-32; 19:20; 22:6; 25:28; 27:5-6; 28:5; 29:1.     

Until next time, yours on the journey,

Jon Byler

In the next issue, we’ll look at how Joshua applied wisdom in strategic decisions.

Joshua received a spirit of wisdom from Moses—but that didn’t mean his path would be free of failure. In fact, one of his early leadership mistakes with the Gibeonites became a powerful lesson in gaining wisdom through failure.  This happened in his interaction with the Gibeonites, a nearby group of people who pretended to be from a distant land and sought peace with the Israelites. Joshua, and the leaders, accepted the offer before realizing it was a deception.

¹⁴The Israelites sampled their provisions but did not inquire of the Lord. ¹⁵Then Joshua made a treaty of peace with them to let them live…  ²⁰This is what we will do to them: We will let them live, so that God’s wrath will not fall on us for breaking the oath we swore to them.” ²¹They continued, “Let them live, but let them be woodcutters and water carriers in the service of the whole assembly.” So the leaders’ promise to them was kept (Joshua 9:14–15, 20-21, NIV).

This treaty was a significant failure in Joshua’s leadership. But he gained wisdom through the experience as he responded.

Joshua gained wisdom by accepting his mistake.

Joshua was fully prepared for war, but the ruse was a surprise. He failed to stop and ask God for wisdom. His decision was rational but it was not wise. But when Joshua realized what happened he accepted his mistake. He didn’t blame others or point fingers at the leaders that were with him; he took full responsibility for the mistake. He gained wisdom as he reflected on what happened and learned from his failure.

Some leaders look for others to blame when they make a mistake and try to cover up the impact of their failure. But serving leaders accept responsibility for failures and thoughtfully gain wisdom. They understand that failure is a great teacher…when they reflect, learn and grow as a result.

Joshua gained wisdom by a thoughtful response.

When the failure was evident, the Israelite army set out for the Gibeonite territory. Joshua had three days of marching to ponder his options. He had more than enough military power to demolish the Gibeonites and destroy their towns as they had done to Jericho and Ai. Humanly, he was likely angry at himself and at the Gibeonites for what had happened and a brutal response would have pacified all his people who were now grumbling about his decision. But Joshua’s thoughtful response helped him avoid an emotional reaction.    

Some leaders react after a failure and seek to punish others in revenge. But serving leaders take time to reflect so that instead of reacting, they can act with wisdom.

Joshua gained wisdom by honoring his commitment.

Joshua had made a commitment to the Gibeonites and even though they had deceived him, he gained wisdom by choosing to honor his commitment to them. No one would have rebuked him if he would have destroyed them entirely. But Joshua chose to keep his integrity even at a great cost. He found a way to honor his commitment while making the Gibeonites woodcutters and water carriers for the Israelites.

Some leaders reverse course when they realize they made an unwise promise and justify their actions to save face and look powerful. But serving leaders recognize that one mistake does not justify another. They gain wisdom by finding ways to honor their commitment as well as accomplish their mission.   

Joshua’s failure didn’t disqualify him—it refined him. And failure can do the same for any leader willing to learn.  

For further reflection and discussion:

• Read the full account of this story in Joshua 9:1-27. What additional insights can I observe about how Joshua gained wisdom through this failure?
• How often do I pause to reflect and pray before making what seems to be an obvious decision? What impact does this have on my leadership?
• What significant leadership failure have I experienced and what did I learn from it? Are there ways I gained wisdom through that experience? What would I do differently if I had a chance to do it again?
• Am I always willing to honor my commitments, even when I later realize I should not have made the commitment? How does this impact my leadership?
• In addition to these reflections from Joshua’s life, consider the following verses that relate to gaining wisdom through failure and God’s discipline:   Prov. 3:11-12; 12:1; 15:31-32; 19:20; 26:11-12; Ps. 51:1-6; and James 1:2-5.        

Until next time, yours on the journey,

Jon Byler

In the next issue, we’ll examine how Joshua utilized wisdom to uphold standards.

Leadership challenges quickly show us how much we need wisdom—more than knowledge alone, we need the ability to act correctly in difficult moments. This is the essence of wisdom: applying what we know and experience to make sound judgments and decisions. Knowledge relates to what we know; wisdom relates to how we should act.

In this series, we’ll explore how Joshua, one of the Bible’s great leaders, found, gained, and exercised wisdom in leading God’s people.  In this first reflection, we’ll look at how Joshua found wisdom. Early in his leadership, scripture tells us that he was filled with wisdom— making his life and leadership a powerful case study on wisdom.

“Now Joshua son of Nun was filled with the spirit of wisdom because Moses had laid his hands on him. So the Israelites listened to him and did what the Lord had commanded Moses.” (Deuteronomy 34:9, NIV)

What can we learn from Joshua about how he found wisdom? 

Joshua found wisdom by spending time with God.

The text above indicates that Joshua was filled with wisdom because Moses laid hands on him. While this had a spiritual element, we also know that Joshua spent much time in God’s presence before this. While Moses would speak to God and then return to the people, Joshua stayed at the tent (see Exodus 33:11). Here Joshua learned what Solomon would write about over 300 years later, “The fear of the Lord is the beginning of wisdom” (Prov. 9:10). In this tent, Joshua was in the background, developing the heart of a leader that served others. Here he learned to value God’s presence more than a position or the applause of people. This private shaping prepared him for public service.

Some leaders look for wisdom in the latest book on leadership or at the conference that promises answers to leadership challenges. While these are good in themselves, serving leaders first find wisdom in time alone with God. They seek wisdom not in position but from presence. Serving leaders who want to grow in wisdom don’t skip the time in the tent!

Joshua found wisdom by observing a wise leader.

Moses laid hands on Joshua only after 40 years of Joshua observing how Moses led. Joshua saw how Moses met with God, how he responded to troublemakers and slanderous attacks. Joshua led the people to battle with the Amalekites but learned that it was the prayers of Moses on the mountain that determined the outcome.   

Some leaders expect to find wisdom on their own, believing that they have what it takes to become wise. But serving leaders observe older, wiser leaders and learn wisdom from them.

Joshua found wisdom by being commissioned.    

Moses commissioned Joshua to be the next leader by laying his hands on Joshua. This transfer of authority and power included the gift of wisdom that Moses possessed. It also indicated that Joshua would lead under authority.  

Some leaders commission themselves and seek authority on their own merits. But serving leaders operate under appropriate authority that blesses them to grow in wisdom. They learn wisdom by being under authority before being in authority.  

For further reflection and discussion:

• Do I have a time in my day that I ‘unplug’ from my leadership role, turn off the news, social media and messages and spend time in the ‘tent’ with God? How does this impact my leadership?
• In what ways have I learned wisdom by observing other leaders? Am I intentionally reflecting on how and what I learn from them? Where possible, have I thanked them for the way their wisdom has helped me as a leader?
• Under whose authority do I lead? How does this help me grow in wisdom? Are there ways I can strengthen this relationship for greater impact?   
• In addition to these reflections from Joshua’s life, consider the following verses that relate to finding wisdom: (Proverbs 1:7, 2:3-6, 3:5-7, 4:7, 9:10, 21:11; Luke 2:52; James 1:5; Ephesians 1:17; Colossians 1:9, 2:2-3)       

Until next time, yours on the journey,

Jon Byler

In the next issue, we’ll look at how Joshua gained wisdom through failure.  

Leaders are often forced to navigate different sides on many divisive issues of our time. We live in a world that takes sides on political persuasions, social views, health issues, economic perspectives, and many more. The sides chosen by a leader deeply impact their own leadership and those who follow. When a leader chooses a wrong side, they may quickly be sidelined! How does a serving leader decide which side to take? Joshua had an encounter with a man that provides help for serving leaders choosing sides.  

¹³ Now when Joshua was near Jericho, he looked up and saw a man standing in front of him with a drawn sword in his hand. Joshua went up to him and asked, “Are you for us or for our enemies?” ¹⁴ “Neither,” he replied, “but as commander of the army of the Lord I have now come.” Then Joshua fell facedown to the ground in reverence, and asked him, “What message does my Lord have for his servant?” ¹⁵ The commander of the Lord’s army replied, “Take off your sandals, for the place where you are standing is holy.” And Joshua did so. (Joshua 5:13–15).

Joshua was leading God’s people into their first battle. It was a crucial time. Success at this point would greatly boost his reputation while a failure would be devastating. He wanted to make sure his side would win! When he meets the man with the sword, likely an angel, Joshua asks a natural question, “Are you for us or for our enemies?”  What does his encounter teach serving leaders?

Serving leaders acknowledge their own side.

Joshua saw the situation from his side. He wanted to know if this man was for him or against him. “Are you for us or for our enemies?” But in the encounter, he realizes that there is another side which he has not considered. Serving leaders acknowledge their own bias to think in terms of sides. They recognize they see the world with the question, “Do you support my vision or my competitors?” But from Joshua, serving leaders learn the need to stop and recognize that there are other sides!    

 Serving leaders accept God’s side.

Joshua must have been shocked with the man’s response, “Neither,” he replied, “but as commander of the army of the Lord I have now come.” This response completely changed the conversation and reframed the question. It was no longer, Joshua’s question changed from “Who is on my side?” to “Am I on the right side?” God calls serving leaders to change their vantage point, not right and wrong, but about who is in charge. God’s agenda is above ouragenda. His side is often not found in either side of our loud debates. Serving leaders do not compromise truth but they acknowledge that their own view is limited and may not be as close to God’s as they previously thought! Serving leaders don’t dismiss their vision, they just submit that vision to a higher purpose. They accept that their role is not to convince people to join their side, but to rally everyone to God’s side. Serving leaders recognize they can’t win the battle for sides until they get themselves on God’s side.

Serving leaders adjust to a new side.

Joshua fell facedown! He would go back to the same people and continue to lead them into battle at Jericho. But his perspective has changed. He recognizes that he is leading on God’s side, not asking God to be on his side. He would still command, but as one under authority. He would no longer call people to “his side”, instead he would invite all to join him on God’s side. Serving leaders adjust their leadership to acknowledge that God is not on their side; they are on God’s side. They humbly ask God for His direction on the divisive issues facing them and learn that the sides are not so much about ‘us’ and ‘them’ if they focus on Him!

For further reflection and discussion:

• What situation am I currently facing in my leadership that is divisive or in which people take opposing sides? Consider that issue as you work through the following questions.
• In what ways do I naturally see the different “sides” only from my side? What have I done in the past week that illustrates this? How could I get a more balanced view of the ‘other’ side?
• In this situation, how do I assume that God is on my side? What difference does this make in how I lead? What if I asked God if He was on my side on this issue and He responded, “Neither,” he replied, “but as commander of the army of the Lord I have now come.”?  How might that shape the way I respond? Do I fear that truth will be compromised or can I trust that God knows truth better than I?
• What does it mean for my leadership for me to ‘fall on my face’ on this issue? When I get back up, how will my leadership be different?  

Until next time, yours on the journey,

Jon Byler

In the next issue, we will begin looking at the life of Boaz.

Joshua provides a model to all serving leaders about how to begin well in a new role or position. As we have seen in the previous two issues, he began by acknowledging the realities of his situation, then he believed in God’s promises. But leadership is all about relationships and Joshua also models well how to connect with the people.

¹⁰  So Joshua ordered the officers of the people: ¹¹  “Go through the camp and tell the people, ‘Get your provisions ready. Three days from now you will cross the Jordan here to go in and take possession of the land the LORD your God is giving you for your own.’ ” ¹²  But to the Reubenites, the Gadites and the half-tribe of Manasseh, Joshua said, ¹³  “Remember the command that Moses the servant of the LORD gave you after he said, ‘The LORD your God will give you rest by giving you this land.’ ¹⁴  Your wives, your children and your livestock may stay in the land that Moses gave you east of the Jordan, but all your fighting men, ready for battle, must cross over ahead of your fellow Israelites. You are to help them ¹⁵  until the LORD gives them rest, as he has done for you, and until they too have taken possession of the land the LORD your God is giving them. After that, you may go back and occupy your own land, which Moses the servant of the LORD gave you east of the Jordan toward the sunrise.” ¹⁶  Then they answered Joshua, “Whatever you have commanded us we will do, and wherever you send us we will go. ¹⁷  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. ¹⁸  Whoever rebels against your word and does not obey it, whatever you may command them, will be put to death. Only be strong and courageous!”   (Joshua 1:11-18).

By the end of these verses, there was a strong relational bond between Joshua as a leader and those who followed. He was ready to lead and they were ready to follow!

All serving leaders can learn three things from the way Joshua connected with the people.

Connect with the influencers of the people. Joshua first addressed the “officers” of the people. These were the primary influencers in the nation and Joshua connected with them directly. He acknowledged their role and did not attempt to do their work. He gave them a message to deliver, knowing that the people under them would receive the message well from them. Serving leaders recognize that while they may not be able to connect personally with everyone in a large organization, they can connect well with those who influence others. As they establish strong relationships with these influencers, they increase their ability to serve the entire group well.

Connect with the interests of the people. “the land the LORD your God is giving you.”  Joshua already knew what the people were interested in, he understood their hearts. They were passionate about entering the land God had promised to them.

Serving leaders learn to know the hearts, passions, and interests of those they lead. They serve them well by pointing out how the next steps take them closer to their goals. They recognize that leadership is not only about helping the leader reach his or her goals, but helping those they serve accomplish the desires of their heart.

Connect with the individuality of the people.  Joshua had special instructions for two of the tribes who were in a unique situation (see verses 12-16). He did not attempt to treat everyone exactly the same way. Serving leaders connect with people by learning their uniqueness. They seek to understand the strengths and weaknesses of each person on their team and they shape their leadership to best serve the individuality of those they lead. Serving leaders serve everyone well but do not serve everyone the same. 

Serving leaders, especially as they begin new roles, make an effort to connect with the people they serve. They learn from Joshua that beginning well always includes strong relationships.

Until next time, yours on the journey,

Jon Byler

For further reflection and discussion:

In the next issue, we’ll begin to look at how Jesus modeled the five actions of serving leaders. 

Copyright, Center for Serving Leadership, 2020. 

As we saw in the last issue, Joshua began well in his new role by acknowledging the realities of his situation. As he began he heard God give him several promises. 

⁵  No one will be able to stand against you all the days of your life. As I was with Moses, so I will be with you; I will never leave you nor forsake you. ⁶  Be strong and courageous, because you will lead these people to inherit the land I swore to their ancestors to give them. ⁷  “Be strong and very courageous. Be careful to obey all the law my servant Moses gave you; do not turn from it to the right or to the left, that you may be successful wherever you go. ⁸  Keep this Book of the Law always on your lips; meditate on it day and night, so that you may be careful to do everything written in it. Then you will be prosperous and successful. ⁹  Have I not commanded you? 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 1:5-9).

At the beginning of his leadership journey Joshua heard and believed these promises which would become foundational to his leadership practice. God gave three promises that all serving leaders rely on, not only to begin their journey, but also to continue well.

God promises His presence.

“I will be with you; I will never leave you nor forsake you.” God promised Joshua that whatever would happen to him as a leader, God would be with him. Leaders make difficult decisions and carry the burdens of knowing their decisions impact all those under their leadership. Sometimes there are choices which need to be made which will not be accepted by those they lead. The weight of these responsibilities can cause a leader to feel lonely. But God promised Joshua that in every situation, he would not be alone, he would have God’s presence with him. Serving leaders acknowledge that they need to draw on a source of wisdom and understanding especially as they step into new levels of responsibility or face unexpected challenges.  Serving leaders rely on God’s presence to give them wisdom for the challenges of leadership. His presence gives serving leaders an awesome advantage!

God promises His power.

Three times in these verses God tells Joshua, “Be strong and courageous.”  Joshua would need strength and power for his new role. He was to lead people into a new land and there would be battles ahead. Leadership requires strength. Joshua was expected to do his part, but it would not be enough. As he began this role, he needed to be aware that he would not succeed because of his own credentials or previous experience. He needed the additional power God promised. So God reminded him the land he would conquer was promised by God and would provide His power to help Joshua accomplish the task. The mission was His! Serving leaders receive training and learn from books and other excellent resources. They work hard and do all they can. But they also gratefully believe that God has promised them the power they need to do what He has called them to do.

God promises His plan.

God expected Joshua to lead well, but He also assured Joshua that He had a plan. He first gives Joshua personal instructions, to carefully obey God’s law so he would “be prosperous and successful.” God would later add more details to this plan but as Joshua began, obedience was the foundation. Serving leaders do not simply develop their own plans; they seek to follow God’s plans. They believe that God’s plan is far greater and more significant than what they can conceive on their own.

Joshua began well by believing the promises God gave him. Serving leaders do the same.

Until next time, yours on the journey,

Jon Byler

For further reflection and discussion:

(If you are not in a new role currently, consider how these question apply to the place where you now serve.)

• In my current leadership situation, how clearly do I sense God’s presence? What difference does it make in the way I lead? Are there things I need to do to increase my awareness of His presence in my daily activities?
• In what way do I need power right now in my leadership? Do I tend to rely only on my own power or do I regularly acknowledge my need for God’s power in my leadership?
• God commanded Joshua, “Keep this Book of the Law always on your lips; meditate on it day and night, so that you may be careful to do everything written in it.” In what way do I practice this in my own leadership? Are there changes I need to make to follow Joshua’s example?
• Does my leadership focus primarily on my plans or discovering and implementing God’s plans? In what way is God inviting me to learn more about His plans for my leadership?         

In the next issue, we’ll examine how serving leaders begin well by connecting with people.

Copyright, Center for Serving Leadership, 2020. 

In the last series we learned from Moses how serving leaders transition well. Now, let’s examine the other side of that process, the beginning of a new role for Joshua, his successor. All leaders will experience times when they step into a new position of leadership responsibility or transition to a new organization or group. What does it look like to begin well? In this series we will examine at the ABC’s of beginning well from the life of Joshua: Acknowledge realities, Believe in God’s promises and Connect with people.

Leaders often begin roles with unrealistic expectations. They may expect it to be the best role ever or they may have doubts about their competence for the task. In either case serving leaders need to acknowledge the realities as Joshua did.

¹  After the death of Moses the servant of the LORD, the LORD said to Joshua son of Nun, Moses’ aide: ² “Moses my servant is dead. Now then, you and all these people, get ready to cross the Jordan River into the land I am about to give to them—to the Israelites. ³  I will give you every place where you set your foot, as I promised Moses (Joshua 1:1-3).

From Joshua serving leaders learn to acknowledge three realities as they begin new roles.

Acknowledge the past.

Joshua was reporting for duty in his new role.  The first thing that God speaks to him acknowledges the past, “Moses my servant is dead.” Ponder that for a moment. With five simple words God acknowledges the great leader that preceded Joshua. Moses walked through the Red Sea and met with God on Mount Sinai! It was a tough job for Joshua to follow in his footsteps. God did not want Joshua or serving leaders to ignore the past as they begin a new role.

Serving leaders acknowledge their own past. They bring their personal history into the new role. They acknowledge what they learned in the past from their mistakes and victories.

Serving leaders also acknowledge the past which belongs to the organization they are joining. They are eager to bring their own gifts and calling to the new role and to bring change, but before they seek to change the future, they acknowledge the past! If they have a predecessor, they seek to learn about what that person did and why they led in that way. They speak respectfully of those who came before them no matter what their performance.  Serving leaders acknowledge and learn from the past but they don’t dwell on it.

Acknowledge the present.

God moves quickly from the past to the present. “Now then, you….” Moses was gone and would not return. Joshua is now the leader of the people. God wants him to acknowledge this reality. Joshua needed to learn to see himself in a new way for the new role. He was no longer the assistant to the leader; he was now in charge! Serving leaders accept the mental change that needs to happen in a new role but not with pride or confidence in themselves. They acknowledge with humility and gratitude their new position of service.  

Acknowledge the task.

Then God reminds Joshua of the work ahead, “Now then…. get ready to cross the Jordan River into the land…” God had work for Joshua to do and it was a huge task, leading a nation of people into hostile territory.  God has a task for all serving leaders who begin new assignments or carry on at old ones. Serving leaders have roles because there is work that needs to be done to accomplish God’s purposes for a particular place and time. Serving leaders acknowledge that God has given them a place to serve to accomplish His task. They recognize that leadership is not about them but the great purpose of God. They begin well by acknowledging the realities of the past, the present and the task at hand.  

Until next time, yours on the journey,

Jon Byler

For further reflection and discussion:

(If you are not in a new role currently, consider how these questions apply to the place where you now serve.)

• What history do I need to acknowledge to serve well in my present role? How do I speak about those who came before me? Is my tendency to focus on the past too much or too little?
• Do I accept myself and the role in which I now serve? Is it easier for me to see myself less than or greater than I should see myself? What does this say about the condition of my heart? Take a moment to allow God to speak to you about the condition of your heart. Ask Him to bring to your mind ways that He wants you to bring yourself to your current role. 
• What is the task to which I am called? Is it clear to me how God intends for me to use my position of influence to advance His purpose in the group I serve? If not, what do I need to do to clarify this call? 

In the next issue, we will look at how leaders begin well by believing in God’s promises.   

Copyright, Center for Serving Leadership, 2020.