Becoming Christians Academy

Moses spent about 40 years of his life leading the Israelites. Perhaps, he was the greatest leader of Israel and no one can replicate what he did.

However, no matter how great Moses was, there was no denying the inevitable. Like any other human being, he will eventually pass away.

Once Moses dies, who will replace him? How can he better prepare his replacement?

Part of great leadership is to prepare and empower other people.

Reading through Deuteronomy, I can’t help but sense Moses’ pain. While giving this message in Deuteronomy, Moses knew that he wouldn't be able to go to the Promised Land.

That very thought of starting a job and doing it for four decades and not having to finish it could have been tormenting for Moses.

Moses was so bothered about this that he again pleaded to God that He would allow him to enter the Promised Land.

Instead of wallowing in self-pity, Moses carried on.

The book of Deuteronomy is full of encouragement, a reminder of God’s goodness, and guidance for the new generation who will conquer the land.

As part of the transition, Moses knew that he would soon die and that he should pass the baton to the next leader.

We read in Deuteronomy 3:21-22:

21 “And I commanded Joshua at that time, saying, ‘Your eyes have seen all that the LORD your God has done to these two kings; so will the LORD do to all the kingdoms through which you pass. 22 You must not fear them, for the LORD your God Himself fights for you.’ 

Again, Moses didn’t seek preeminence. He didn’t hold onto his position. He didn’t have selfish ambition. 

After all, he won’t enter the Promised Land. So, as a bitter way to get even, he could have simply let the Israelites be.

But that’s not Moses. 

He passed the baton to Joshua (Yehoshua). 

He trained him. 

He empowered him. 

He guided him. 

Moses did all he could do to the best of his abilities to prepare not just the next leader but also the whole nation of Israel.