How to Lead with the Lord

"Be strong and courageous, because you will lead these people to inherit the land I swore to their forefathers to give them. Be strong and very courageous. Be careful to obey all the law my servant Moses gave you; do not turn from it to the right or to the left, that you may be successful wherever you go. Do not let this Book of the Law depart from your mouth; meditate on it day and night, so that you may be careful to do everything written in it. Then you will be prosperous and successful. Have I not commanded you? Be strong and courageous. Do not be terrified; do not be discouraged, for the Lord your God will be with you wherever you go." (Joshua 1:6-9 NIV)

I was listening to a call-in show on Christian talk radio the other day, and the hosts quoted these verses to inspire a husband who had lost his confidence in leading his family. But I feel that anyone who is in a position of leadership can benefit from these words of encouragement.

In this passage God is speaking to Joshua, commanding him as he assumes leadership of the people after Moses' death. The talk show hosts pointed out the significance that God repeats the same words three times in four verses; He especially wants us to hear and believe the promises He makes here. I personally am often assailed by doubts in my ability to live up to the responsibilities put upon me, and these verses help to remind me that I am NOT doing it on my own, but that God is with me, just as He said He always would be.