The people’s response reveals a crucial understanding: successful leadership depends on divine presence, not human ability. They weren’t saying, “We’ll follow you as long as you’re smart enough or strong enough.” They were saying, “We’ll follow you as long as God is with you, just as He was with Moses.”
This relieves tremendous pressure from leaders while increasing their dependence on God. Whether you’re leading a family, a ministry team, a small group, or a business, your effectiveness ultimately depends on God’s presence and blessing, not on your natural talents or accumulated experience.
For those who resist leadership roles, this truth is liberating. God doesn’t call the equipped; He equips the called. Your inadequacy is not a disqualification but an opportunity for God to display His power through your weakness.
For those who embrace leadership confidently, this truth is humbling. Any success you experience comes from God’s grace, not your superior abilities. Without His presence, even the most gifted leaders will ultimately fail.
The people also encouraged Joshua with the same words God had spoken to him: “Be strong and courageous.” Sometimes the encouragement we need comes from those we’re trying to lead. Effective leadership creates an environment where mutual encouragement flows both up and down the hierarchy.