What leadership qualities does Moses highlight in Deuteronomy 31:7 for Joshua?

Setting the Scene

Moses is handing leadership to Joshua. Before the entire nation, he speaks a one-sentence charge that crystallizes the qualities Joshua will need.

“Then Moses called for Joshua and said to him in the sight of all Israel, ‘Be strong and courageous, for you must go with this people into the land that the LORD swore to their fathers to give them, and you must give it to them as their inheritance.’ ” (Deuteronomy 31:7)

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Leadership Qualities Moses Highlights

• Strong Resolve

  ‑ “Be strong” points to inner fortitude shaped by trust in God (cf. Ephesians 6:10).

• Moral Courage

  ‑ “and courageous” stresses boldness to obey even when risks loom large (Joshua 1:7-9).

• Shared Presence

  ‑ “go with this people” shows a leader walking alongside, not above, those he serves (Numbers 27:17).

• Faith in God’s Promises

  ‑ “into the land that the LORD swore” anchors leadership on the certainty of God’s word (Hebrews 10:23).

• Stewardship of Inheritance

  ‑ “you must give it to them as their inheritance” underscores responsibility to safeguard what God entrusts (1 Corinthians 4:2).

• Public Accountability

  ‑ Moses speaks “in the sight of all Israel,” reminding Joshua that leadership is lived transparently before God and people (1 Timothy 5:20).

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Putting It Together

Moses’ charge blends inner character (strength, courage, faith) with outward action (presence, stewardship, accountability). True biblical leadership stands on unshakeable confidence in God while actively shepherding God’s people toward His promised future.