Scripture

Our verse for today comes from Joshua 1:1, “After the death of Moses the servant of the Lord, it came to pass that the Lord spoke to Joshua the son of Nun, Moses’ assistant.”

Background

Joshua was Moses’ assistant. He was sent to spy out the promised land. Moses gave him some of his authority as a precursor to Joshua eventually leading the entire nation of Israelites. He even accompanied Moses when he went up Mount Sinai to hear from God. But even with these unique opportunities and his favored status, Joshua was still just the assistant. That is, until God spoke to him. The first words Joshua directly heard from God were, “Moses my servant is dead.” Now this wasn’t news to Joshua. But what it was was a message from God that Joshua was now the man. There was not going to be a Moses around for him to defer to. Joshua was now the leader. So God encouraged him and promised him just like He did to Moses. And Joshua listened. In fact, he didn’t say a word. God mightily spoke to him, and Joshua went and commanded the officers to prepare to take Jericho. No discussion, and no debate. God turned the eyes of Joshua to His Word and promised He’d always be with him, and away Joshua went. The back-up was now the starter. But the Master was still the Master.

Application

Vice President. Back-up quarterback. Assistant manager. First Officer. Understudy. We know these roles not so much by what they accomplish as we do associate them with what they do not do and who they are not. They do not make the final decision. They are not the ones calling the shots. They are not the persons ultimately responsible for success or failure. True, each of them does have an important role. And there is inherent pressure in being the primary support for the leader of a unit. But as that support person, there is also a great sense of security in knowing that, regardless of your advice or counsel, someone else will be put to the test. Much comfort follows from knowing that the buck does not stop at your desk. But it might ten minutes from now. Or ten days, or ten years. Providentially, after any election, many assistants and back-ups and nameless counselors will inherit the pressure of running the show.

Charge

As we seek Him today, when your day comes to take the lead, find your courage and strength in the One who has always been, and always will be, in charge.

Salvation – Eternal Life in Less Than 150 Words