What can we learn about God's presence with leaders from Joshua 6:27? The Verse in Focus “So the LORD was with Joshua, and his fame spread throughout the land.” (Joshua 6:27) Immediate Context • Joshua has just led Israel to its first victory in Canaan, watching Jericho’s walls collapse exactly as God promised (Joshua 6:20). • The verse closes the chapter by spotlighting the real reason the campaign succeeded—“the LORD was with Joshua.” • Joshua’s rising reputation is not self-made achievement; it is evidence that God’s presence has tangible, public results. Key Observations on God’s Presence with Leaders • God’s nearness is personal—“the LORD was with Joshua,” not merely with Israel in general. • Victory flows from relationship, not strategy; marching and shouting were simple acts of obedience, but God supplied the power (Joshua 6:16). • Divine presence produces influence: Joshua’s “fame spread,” giving him credibility to lead future battles (Joshua 10:7-14). • The statement confirms the promise given earlier: “Just as I was with Moses, so I will be with you” (Joshua 1:5). God keeps His word. Broader Biblical Patterns • Joseph: “The LORD was with Joseph, and he became a successful man” (Genesis 39:2). • Moses: “I will certainly be with you” (Exodus 3:12) – assurance before facing Pharaoh. • Gideon: “The LORD is with you, mighty warrior” (Judges 6:12) – courage in weakness. • David: “The LORD was with him and gave him success in everything he did” (1 Samuel 18:14). • Jesus to His disciples: “And surely I am with you always, to the very end of the age” (Matthew 28:20). Consistently, when God is present, leaders are enabled, protected, and made effective beyond their natural abilities. Practical Lessons for Today’s Leaders • Seek God’s presence first; methods matter, but God’s companionship is decisive. • Obey even unconventional instructions; God often ties His manifest help to simple steps of faith. • Expect impact that points back to God, not to personal brilliance. Credibility is a gift, not a trophy. • Rest in His covenant faithfulness; the same God who walked with Joshua promises never to leave His people (Hebrews 13:5). Assurance and Challenge God’s unchanging character means He still delights to stand with those He calls. The victories may look different from Jericho’s crumbling walls, yet the principle endures: when the LORD is with a leader, the work advances, people notice, and God receives the glory. |
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