Deuteronomy 31:7-8 - God qualifies His leaders

Moses made it clear that he was just God’s servant, the one who was truly leading them was the Lord. While he would love to be the one taking them into the promised land, he knew that this was not to be. God had already made it known to him earlier. Disappointed as he could be, he knew it was God’s final decision. So in verse 3, he told the people of Israel that God had already decided that Joshua would be the one who would lead them into the promised land.  

Having spoken to the people, Moses then called Joshua to his side as everyone looked on, and he commissioned Joshua. Openly, he urged this aide, who had been following him, to be strong and courageous before telling him what he was to do. Joshua was to go with the people into the land that “the Lord has sworn to their fathers to give them, and you shall give it to them as an inheritance.” He also reminded him that it would be the Lord who would go ahead of him and be with him. He assured Joshua that the Lord would not forsake him. Therefore Joshua was not to fear or be dismayed.

It was obvious that Joshua needed the encouragement as he was leading the people into uncharted territory. It was going to be a daunting task, but there was nothing for him to fear. For the LORD would be the one leading him and going with him into the promised land. Besides, the LORD would also not fail or forsake him. Hence, he should be courageous and boldly lead the people into the promised land.  

From these two verses, three things on leadership can be learned. Firstly, we must know that the best leaders are those whom God has appointed. They are people who did not elevate themselves. They know that it’s God who has qualified them and not their charisma or education. Secondly, every God-appointed leader must know that the mission he is called to do is God’s. Therefore,  he cannot afford to be casual about the mission. He must attend to the work with diligence and faithfulness. Thirdly, we learn that when God appoints a leader, He will be with him. Every God-appointed leader must know that that’s where he must derive his strength. He must not allow anxiety and fear to limit his progress. He must remember that God is the source of His strength.  When you are appointed by God, go in the full assurance that He Himself will be with you!