In what ways can we support leaders to act "courageously" in their duties? Setting the Scene The Amalekites attack Israel in the wilderness. Moses stands on the hilltop with the staff of God raised, while Joshua fights below. As Moses’ arms tire, Israel falters; when his arms are lifted, Israel prevails. Key Verse “When Moses’ hands grew heavy, they took a stone and put it under him, and he sat on it; Aaron and Hur held his hands up, one on each side, so that his hands remained steady until the sun went down.” (Exodus 17:12) Snapshot of Courage in the Passage • Moses models courageous leadership by obeying God’s command to hold the staff aloft. • Joshua displays courage on the battlefield. • Aaron and Hur show courage of a different kind—coming alongside their leader so he can fulfill his God-given role. Timeless Principle: Leaders Need Lifted Hands Courageous leadership does not happen in isolation. God often supplies courage to leaders through the faithful support of those around them. Practical Ways to Strengthen Leaders’ Courage • Pray constantly for them (1 Timothy 2:1-2). Persistent, specific intercession reminds leaders that Heaven’s armory backs them. • Speak life-giving encouragement. A timely word can steady weary “arms” (Proverbs 12:25). • Provide tangible help. Offer skills, resources, and time that lighten their load—as Aaron and Hur physically supported Moses. • Stand with them publicly. Visible unity emboldens leaders to make righteous, sometimes unpopular decisions (Joshua 1:16-18). • Guard their rest. Create space for Sabbath and family so fatigue does not erode courage (Mark 6:31). • Uphold biblical accountability. Loving correction keeps leaders bold yet humble (Galatians 6:1-2). • Celebrate victories and faithfulness. Shared rejoicing fuels fresh courage for future battles (Philippians 1:3-7). Additional Biblical Anchors • 2 Samuel 10:12 — “Be strong, and let us fight bravely… the LORD will do what is good in His sight.” • 1 Thessalonians 5:12-13 — Esteem those who labor among you. • Hebrews 13:17 — Obey and submit to your leaders so they may serve “with joy and not with grief.” • Hebrews 10:24 — “Let us consider how to spur one another on to love and good deeds.” Living It Out Together When we shoulder our leaders’ burdens—spiritually, emotionally, and practically—we become the “Aarons” and “Hurs” God uses to keep their hands steady. In doing so, we partner in every courageous advance of the Kingdom. |
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