Read Numbers 27 – 28
And Moses spake unto the LORD, saying, Let the LORD, the God of the spirits of all flesh, set a man over the congregation, Which may go out before them, and which may go in before them, and which may lead them out, and which may bring them in; that the congregation of the LORD be not as sheep which have no shepherd. Numbers 27:15-17 KJV
Moses was nearing the end of his life, but his concern was that Israel would not be like sheep without a shepherd. With all the frustrations he had experienced in leading them, he loved them and remained faithful to them. Moses set a good example for people in positions of spiritual leadership today. Too often people leave ministries without any thought for who will follow. This leaves groups of people spiritually vulnerable, as sheep without a shepherd. Such transitions are rarely good for congregations. Moses prayed for God’s successor. It is interesting that God’s choice was Joshua, the young man mentored by Moses. He had been a shadow to everything Moses did. Leaders today would do well to follow the example of Moses in both areas: mentoring a potential successor without the load of leadership, and seeking God’s choice through regular and special times of prayer.
Lord, I thank you for the position of leadership you have entrusted to me. As Moses looked beyond himself for the well being of those he ministered to, help me to do the same. Even now discipline my heart in prayer and preparation for your choice to follow.
