Nums 27

“And Jehovah said to Moses, Take Joshua the son of Nun, a man in whom is the Spirit, and lay your hand upon him” (Nums 27:18).

Last week in Jr. High we talked about the responsibility of the leader. We learned that leadership comes with stricter judgment. To be a teacher means you are a shepherd, and where you go the sheep follow. Today we learn about the number one attribute of leadership.

I have friends of mine who are truly the most gifted leaders I know. There is something about them that people want to follow. I was not born with this gift. I sometimes wonder why these people are not leading great congregations. I also know that one’s gift is often their greatest weakness. For instance, if you are a “go getter” than you are likely to get into trouble “go getting.” If you never venture out than you likely will not go any where at all. Therefore, there is a time and place for both. How in the world do we find the balance? How do we know when to go and when to stay? We need to follow Jesus and thus be led by the Holy Spirit!

Read John 10:27.

The sheep hear the voice of Jesus and follow Him. If you are a leader, and therefore you are a shepherd, and sheep follow your voice, you better be following Jesus’ voice. Otherwise you lead others away from Jesus.

My exhortation to you today is simple. If you are following the Lord continue to draw closer to Him. If you feel you are not hearing His voice, meet with Him. If you wish to be leader for Jesus, which He has called some of you to be, listen and follow. Do not let your spiritual gift go to waste. Sr. High, you are in 1 Corinthians. Read ahead to chapter 7:17-24 to learn about your calling. Finally, follow the Holy Spirit.

I think this is a good time to reset if you are not following the Lord like you should. Here is the reason: Jesus is forgiving and He pours grace, grace over the edges of your being. It takes just a few steps to be heading back toward Jesus. When I think of all the great things Joshua would do in his future, I think of you guys. You are all being called like Joshua, therefore, live in the Holy Spirit.