As the Lord had commanded his servant Moses, so Moses commanded Joshua, and so Joshua did; he left nothing undone of all that the Lord had commanded Moses. Joshua 11: 15 NRSV
When you are a leader, especially a new one, you want to make your mark on the world. You want to do something that sets you apart, that makes you known, and that solidifies your power base. You want to build on your predecessor's work but you also want to be different. That is leadership 101 in today's world.
God, however, is different. God has certain commandments that God would like you to follow, just as all those who have come before you have followed. God wants obedience. God is not interested in your fame or notoriety. God wants you to be like all the other leaders whom God has called. God is looking for servants with good hearts, not new leadership.
Joshua did has Moses commanded him. Moses did as God commanded him. Joshua did not strike out and decide to change the way the Israelites did things. Joshua was not looking to make his mark on the world. Joshua was looking to be obedient to God.
God, you remind us with today's scripture that you ask us for obedience, not new leadership. May we listen to you and follow your commandments. In Jesus' name. Amen.
Copyright 2010 Amelia G. Sims
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