Biblical Leadership, the Example of JoshuaSample

Joshua Must Recall What God Has Done and What He Will Do

“Then the Lord said to Moses, ‘Write this as a memorial in a book and recite it in the ears of Joshua, that I will utterly blot out the memory of Amalek from under heaven.’” (Exodus 17:14)

Once Amalek is defeated, the Israelites can resume their journey. But this incident should not be forgotten. It must be written down and recalled, because it is important to know who the Lord God is and how He intervenes to save His people. With this knowledge, people can confidently continue their life's journey, even though they encounter all kinds of difficulties.

It is striking that the Lord God adds a special assignment for Joshua. He must be convinced that God will completely deal with Amalek in the future. As Israel's future leader, Joshua must know that the injustice done to the people will not simply go unpunished. The Lord Himself will take vengeance. Joshua is given a role in that. If he has to go into battle with his soldiers, it is always at God's command and according to His plan. No matter how special Moses’ position was, in the end it is God Himself who will protect His people.

Quite appropriately, Moses builds an altar as a reminder and calls it “The Lord is my Banner.” God is to be their banner at whose signal the people are to act. He gives direction and determines when and against whom to fight.

Do you think God still fights for certain nations or groups? If so, for whom?