COURAGE TO LEAD
COURAGE TO FOLLOW: God’s Plan
When my wife and I were first married, God called us to move from Indiana to Ohio to start a student ministry from scratch. We courageously stepped out in faith to join a young church-plant as missionaries and raised our own support. The church didn’t have any students, any money to pay us, or even a church building. We were nervous, excited, and hopeful that God would provide students, finances, and a facility. It wasn’t easy to follow God’s plan, and it seemed a bit crazy. We secretly wondered: ‘If we do this, will God come through for us?’ It was a struggle to start a student ministry at first, and we had to overcome a lot of opposition. However, God was faithful over time and provided dozens of students, a strong financial base, and a new building. It takes courage to lead, but that first step of faith is a doozy!
COURAGE TO CONTINUE: God’s Mission
Do you ever feel like giving up or that the road ahead is too difficult? Do you ever question your calling or wonder if you should continue the mission? I believe Joshua was facing some of those fears and questions as the mantle of Moses’ leadership was passed to him. As Joshua stepped out in faith to take on a new role, he needed encouragement. The Lord encouraged Joshua to be strong and courageous, to lean on Him, and to obey His Word. The Lord commissioned Joshua to continue the mission and take charge of the people of Israel.
“Be strong and courageous, for you are the one who will lead these people to possess all the land I swore to their ancestors I would give them. Be strong and very courageous. Be careful to obey all the instructions Moses gave you. Do not deviate from them, turning either to the right or to the left. Then you will be successful in everything you do.” -Joshua 1:6-7 • (Read the full story here: Joshua 1:1-18)
COURAGE TO LEAD: God’s People
Leadership can be intimidating, but Joshua was courageous to lead God’s people anyway. Tasked with conquering the Promised Land, he helped them keep God first in their hearts and obey God’s Word. Joshua helped God’s people overcome their fears and prepared them to cross the Jordan river and conquer Jericho. He had the people take rocks from the river to make a memorial to the Lord, to worship, and to celebrate before the battle. Joshua’s courage to follow, to continue, and to lead God’s people inspires us to do the same.
“Be on guard. Stand firm in the faith. Be courageous. Be strong. And do everything with love.”
-1 Corinthians 16:13-14
REFLECTION: Before you go to the next session, take some time to reflect.
1. In your life and leadership, how have you overcome fear with faith?
2. What steps can you take this week to stand firm, to be strong, to lead with courage & love?
3. What has God done that you can celebrate? Who around you needs encouragement today?
4. Are you struggling with God’s plan, calling, or continuing? Reach out to us at LEAD222 & talk to one of our Certified Coaches.
PRAYER:
Jesus, give me courage to follow your plan, to continue your mission, and to lead your people.
Author: Larry Ely • Posted: April 2025
Event: LEAD Summit 2024
