[Spirit of Leadership] PreparationSample

Test of Resistance

To exhibit the Spirit of leadership, you must pass the test of resistance. This was true in Joshua’s life. When the Israelites got to Canaan, Moses sent 12 spies, one for every Israelite tribe, into the land. Joshua was one of the 12. The spies found the land was fruitful, abundant, and flowing with milk and honey. It was better than the people had imagined during 400 years of captivity, beyond any dream they had. Yet there were also walled cities, giants, and strong people there. 

The spies gave their report. Caleb and Joshua were for going into the land immediately, believing that God had equipped them to take it—despite the giants, tribes, and walled cities. The other spies said, “We can’t go there. These people are too big. The giants are too tall. The cities are too fortified.” They even said they felt like grasshoppers that could be crushed at any minute.

There was great controversy among the people. Caleb and Joshua stood their ground, but the people listened to the majority. Great resistance came to Caleb and Joshua. The Israelites even talked about killing them. 

If you are going to be a leader, you must make up your mind that you want to please God more than you want to please anyone else. This is a big lesson for this generation. We are afraid to displease others. We want acceptance, to be part of the group, to be among our peers. Resolve that even when the pressure is on, you will stand up for what is right and do what God is calling you to do. One writer said, “If you want to lead the orchestra, you’ve got to turn your back on the crowd.” 

A leader may have to choose between being liked and being respected. When you get to those critical points, choose to be respected. Maintain your integrity, do what is right, and trust God to bring good in the situation over time. Hardly anyone remembers the names of the 10 spies who had a negative report, but everyone remembers Joshua and Caleb. Why? They did what was right in the eyes of the Lord and resisted the enemy’s pressure against them. Planes take off into the wind and leaders ascend because of the resistance against them. You will never be a leader if you are not able to overcome resistance.