What lessons on leadership can we learn from Joshua's actions in this verse? Setting the Scene “ When they had brought the kings to Joshua, he summoned all the men of Israel and said to the commanders of the fighting men who had accompanied him, ‘Come forward and put your feet on the necks of these kings.’ So they stepped forward and placed their feet on their necks.” (Joshua 10:24) Leadership Lessons From Joshua 10:24 • Visualize the victory God gives – Joshua turns God’s promise into a concrete, unforgettable picture. – Romans 8:37 echoes the same reality: “we are more than conquerors through Him.” • Empower rather than monopolize – He invites the commanders to act; he doesn’t keep the moment to himself. – Exodus 18:21 stresses shared leadership; 2 Timothy 2:2 calls leaders to entrust to faithful men. • Cultivate courage in your team – The physical act of placing their feet on the necks of the enemy infuses the soldiers with confidence. – Joshua reiterates in the next verse, “Do not be afraid or discouraged” (10:25). Compare Deuteronomy 31:6. • Demonstrate obedience to God’s explicit commands – Joshua fulfills the mandate given in Deuteronomy 7:24: “You will put their kings under your feet.” – Leaders who take Scripture literally model unwavering obedience. • Train future leaders by letting them share decisive moments – Those commanders would soon lead campaigns on their own (Joshua 11–12). – Just as Jesus in John 13:14 involved the disciples by washing their feet, Joshua involves his men, forming servant–warriors. Cross-References That Illuminate the Lesson • Psalm 110:1—“Sit at My right hand until I make Your enemies a footstool for Your feet.” • 1 Chronicles 28:20—David charges Solomon, “Be strong and courageous and do the work.” • 1 Peter 5:3—Shepherds are to be “examples to the flock,” not lording authority but displaying it rightly. Practical Takeaways For Today • Paint vivid reminders of the victories God has promised instead of dwelling on obstacles. • Share key responsibilities; invite others into moments that clarify God’s power. • Speak courage into those you lead, grounding it in Scripture rather than mere optimism. • Obey God’s Word without hesitation—godly leadership lives out literal truth. • View every decisive moment as a training ground for the next generation of leaders. |