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Leading Wherever You Are
JOSHUA
through?
What is our why?
Within leadership, we must ask ourselves why so we hold on to our values, mission, and goals.
As Daniel Goleman says in his New York Times bestselling book Primal Leadership, “Visionary
leaders help people to see how their work fits into the big picture, lending people a clear sense not
just that what they do matters, but also why.”i
As you think about your own life and leadership, what is your why?
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Joshua knew his why. He knew what mattered most. He understood the importance of clinging
to his purpose.
In Deuteronomy 34, Moses has died and Joshua has stepped into leadership. Verse 9 tells us
that “Joshua son of Nun was filled with the spirit of wisdom because Moses had laid his hands on
him. The People of Israel listened obediently to him and did the same as when GOD had
commanded Moses” (MSG). As we enter into the book of Joshua, we’re going to find out more
about what Joshua’s purpose was in this new leadership role. If you haven’t already, read Joshua
1.
In this passage, what do you see as Joshua’s why in leadership?
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Joshua had been well prepared for his new role as leader. He had been in training for years, his
predecessor (Moses) blessed him in taking the position, and God affirmed this to be His will. Even
so, stepping into shoes as large as Moses’ had to have been intimidating.
But do you know what Moses said to God in Exodus 3 and 4 when the Lord first asked him
lead the Israelites out of slavery in Egypt? Four times Moses questioned God’s calling, even asking
Him to send someone else! He, too, was afraid of his assignment from God because it felt big, and
he felt small and inadequate.
How did God respond to Moses in Exodus 4:14-17?
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