Student Connect

Studying the book of Joshua has opened my eyes to a new understanding of Jesus, especially when I reflect on the burden of reluctant leadership. Joshua was not a man chasing influence or power. He was a servant. He spent years in the background, faithfully assisting Moses. When the leadership mantle finally fell on him, we do not see any celebration or bold declarations. Instead, we hear God speak to him multiple times saying, "Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid. I will be with you." The repetition suggests that Joshua was hesitant, even reluctant. He obeyed, but he wrestled with the weight of what obedience required.

This internal struggle mirrors what we see in Jesus during His time in the Garden of Gethsemane. He knelt in prayer and cried out, "Father, if it is possible, let this cup pass from me. Yet not as I will, but as You will." This was not a moment of weakness. It was a moment of honesty. A moment where divine purpose and human vulnerability met. Jesus did not run toward the cross for glory. He submitted to it out of love, obedience, and purpose. Like Joshua, He accepted a role that would cost Him everything.

What stands out to me now is that true leadership in the kingdom of God is not about applause. It is about sacrifice. Joshua had to lead people who were often fearful, rebellious, and spiritually inconsistent. He had to conquer lands, deal with failure, and remain faithful through seasons of isolation and pressure. Jesus took on an even heavier burden. He bore the weight of humanity's sin. He led through rejection, misunderstanding, betrayal, and ultimately death. He did not take up His calling for popularity. He took it up to fulfill the Father's will.

Joshua shows us what it means to obey God when the path is full of resistance. Jesus shows us what it means to obey God when the path leads through suffering and death. Both reveal that reluctance does not disqualify you from being chosen. In fact, it often confirms that you are leaning on God's strength instead of your own.

After studying Joshua, I appreciate Jesus not only as Savior and Redeemer, but as a leader who understands the weight of obedience. He prayed through the pressure. He trusted when it hurt. He surrendered completely. That has helped me see my own calling differently. I do not need to feel completely ready or confident to lead. I need to trust the One who called me and walk forward even when I feel afraid.

Joshua reminds me that the reluctant leader can still be the right leader. Jesus shows me that the reluctant leader can be the Redeemer. That truth has deepened my love for Him and strengthened my faith in what He is calling me to become.