Joshua 1:12-18 – LEADERSHIP – LEADERS AND FOLLOWERS
When we think of great leaders we think of men and women of character and strong leadership ability. We must remember, however, that good leaders must have good followers or they will not be successful. Joshua was a good leader and he had many good followers.
Israel was planning to cross the Jordan River and conquer the Promised Land. Joshua as a good leader had to have everyone working with him for this to be accomplished.
CHALLENGES FROM A GOOD LEADER Vss. 12-15
The tribes mentioned in verse 12 had settled on the other side of the Jordan River. They had, however promised to help with the conquering of the new land. Joshua challenged them in three ways:
- REMEMBER – Vs. 13
Joshua reminded these people of the commitment that they had made to Moses (Numbers 32:20-33). He wanted them to remember what they had promised to do.
A good leader will constantly remind people of their commitments (2 Peter 1:12-15).
- RESPOND – Vs. 14
It was time for these people to keep their promises. They were to lead the procession into the promise land. He was telling them that it was time to respond to their previous promise by doing what they said they would.
- RETURN – Vs. 15
Joshua encouraged these tribes that they would return and enjoy the land which they had possessed.
A good leader encourages his followers that there is reward for faithful obedience.
COMFORT FROM GOOD FOLLOWERS Vss. 16-18
Not only should good leaders inspire their followers, but also good followers should inspire their leaders. The response of these people was an encouragement to Joshua.
- THEY EXPRESSED OBEDIENCE – Vss. 16-17
- THEY ENFORCED THE RULES – Vs. 18a
They promised to discipline those who would not cooperate. It is an encouraging to leaders when followers help to enforce the rules among other followers.
- THEY ENCOURAGED THE LEADER – Vss. 17b, 18b
They wished him the Lord’s best. – Vs. 17b
They encouraged him to be strong and of good courage. Vs. 18b