He Needed Their Respect

Joshua had undertaken the leadership of Israel following the great man Moses. What a tremendous task he had, not only because of the magnitude of the task but because of the greatness of his predecessor.

A leader, to be effective, must have the respect of those he leads. One of the problems of our time is finding leaders deserving of this respect. This is true in civil government but also true at times in the church.

To build this respect for Joshua God would allow Israel to cross the flooded Jordan on dry land. The miracle that occurred not only gave Israel access to Canaan, but gave the Israelites the confidence in Joshua he deserved and needed to take them over Jordan and conquer the land as God had promised.