What qualities did Joshua possess that made him a chosen leader in Deuteronomy? The moment of divine appointment — Deuteronomy 1:38 “‘Joshua son of Nun, who stands before you, will enter it. Encourage him, for he will enable Israel to inherit the land.’” God’s direct choice of Joshua in this verse sums up the essential traits already evident in his life. Below are the qualities Scripture highlights: A servant’s heart proven over time • From youth Joshua “served Moses” (Exodus 24:13), content to stay in the background and learn. • He remained at the Tent of Meeting even after Moses departed (Exodus 33:11), showing sustained devotion to God’s presence. • Faithful service built the trust necessary for leadership (Luke 16:10 principle illustrated). Courage rooted in faith, not self-confidence • One of the two spies who believed God could conquer Canaan (Numbers 14:6-9). • His bold stance sprang from confidence in God’s promises, not military bravado. • Moses echoes this: “Be strong and courageous… the LORD goes with you” (Deuteronomy 31:6-8). Unwavering obedience • When Amalek attacked, Joshua obeyed immediately, fought, and prevailed under Moses’ uplifted hands (Exodus 17:9-13). • Obedience, even in battle, displayed submission to God-given authority and strategy. Spirit-filled wisdom • “Now Joshua son of Nun was filled with the spirit of wisdom because Moses had laid his hands on him” (Deuteronomy 34:9). • Numbers 27:18 notes “a man in whom is the Spirit,” showing God’s empowerment, not mere natural talent. Zeal for God’s honor • When Eldad and Medad prophesied, Joshua’s first instinct was to protect Moses’ authority (Numbers 11:27-28). • Though corrected, his motive—zeal for divine order—proved his passion for God’s glory. Proven military competence • Led Israel’s first recorded battle (Exodus 17). • Tactical skill paired with reliance on God prepared him for the campaigns ahead. Humility coupled with boldness • Despite public recognition, Joshua accepted commissioning through Moses (Numbers 27:22-23), submitting to established leadership. • Yet he was bold to lead Israel across the Jordan when the mantle fully passed. Persevering faith under delay • Forty years in the wilderness did not dampen his conviction that God would give the land (Joshua 14:6-8 recalls the consistency of his testimony). • Steadfast endurance equipped him to shepherd a new generation. Summary Joshua’s selection flows from a blend of Spirit-given wisdom, tested courage, lifelong servanthood, zealous obedience, and unwavering faith in God’s promises. These qualities, affirmed in Deuteronomy 1:38 and fleshed out across the Pentateuch, made him the fitting instrument for leading Israel into its promised inheritance. |
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