In the book of Joshua, chapter 3, we find a powerful narrative about the Israelites crossing the Jordan River into the Promised Land. This account holds valuable lessons for us as we consider the idea of being properly aligned for leadership.
ILLUSTRATION:
Imagine your spine as the foundation of a tall building. Just like a solid foundation ensures the stability and proper functioning of a structure, the alignment of your spine plays a crucial role in your overall health and well-being. Chiropractic care, focused on spinal alignment, offers numerous benefits that can transform your life.
- Improved Nervous System Function
- Pain Relief
- Enhanced Posture
- Boost to Immune System
- Increased Energy and Vitality
- Prevention and Wellness Maintenance
Remember, just as a misaligned building can lead to instability, and a misaligned spine can impact your overall health, being improperly aligned spiritually can negatively hinder your ability to effectively lead.
Align Yourself With God’s Covenant
Joshua 3:1-5 (NASB): 1 Then Joshua rose early in the morning; and he and all the sons of Israel set out from Shittim and came to the Jordan, and they lodged there before they crossed. 2 At the end of three days the officers went through the midst of the camp; 3 and they commanded the people, saying, “When you see the ark of the covenant of the Lord your God with the Levitical priests carrying it, then you shall set out from your place and go after it. 4 However, there shall be a distance between you and it of about two thousand cubits by measure. Do not come near it, that you may know the way by which you shall go, for you have not passed this way before. Then Joshua said to the people, ‘Consecrate yourselves, for tomorrow the Lord will do wonders among you.'”
This passage reminds us of the importance of following God’s presence and guidance. As leaders, it is crucial for us to be in tune with God’s call, seeking His direction and following His lead. Just like the Israelites followed the ark of the covenant, we too must align ourselves with God’s purposes and plans, allowing His presence to guide us as we lead others.
There are two important steps to take:
- Connect yourself to the divine covenant
- “When you see the ark of the covenant of the Lord your God with the Levitical priests carrying it, then you shall set out from your place and go after it.
- Are pursuing God’s covenant or your personal agenda?
- “When you see the ark of the covenant of the Lord your God with the Levitical priests carrying it, then you shall set out from your place and go after it.
- Consecrate yourself for the task at hand
- The word “consecrate” in the context of Joshua 3:5 means “the act of setting oneself apart for a sacred or holy purpose.”
- It involves dedicating oneself to the Lord, surrendering to His will, and committing to live a life that aligns with His commands and desires.
- Consecration involves purifying one’s heart, confessing sins, seeking forgiveness, and renewing one’s commitment to serve and follow God wholeheartedly.
In this verse, Joshua instructs the Israelites to consecrate themselves, emphasizing the need for spiritual preparation before crossing the Jordan River. It is a deliberate and intentional act of sanctification, separating oneself from worldly distractions and focusing on pursuing God's purposes and plans.
Align Yourself With Committed Leaders
Joshua 3:6 (NASB): “And Joshua spoke to the priests, saying, ‘Take up the ark of the covenant and cross ahead of the people.’ So they took up the ark of the covenant and went ahead of the people.”
Who are you allowing to lead you? Who is allowing you to lead them?
We need leaders who will…
- Take up the cause of the covenant (take up the Ark of the Covenant)
- Step into troubled waters (and cross…)
- Blaze the trail for others to follow (so they took…and went ahead of the people)
This highlights the significance of aligning ourselves with leaders who are committed to God and His purposes.
As leaders, we need the support, wisdom, and counsel of other godly leaders to navigate the challenges of leadership.
Surrounding ourselves with committed leaders, such as the priests in this narrative, can provide strength and direction as we fulfill our leadership roles.
Align Yourself With Followers
Joshua 3:8 (NASB): “Now you shall command the priests who carry the ark of the covenant, saying, ‘When you come to the edge of the waters of the Jordan, you shall stand still in the Jordan.'”
Joshua 3:17 (NASB): “And the priests who carried the ark of the covenant of the Lord stood firm on dry ground in the middle of the Jordan while all Israel crossed on dry ground, until all the nation had finished crossing the Jordan.”
As leaders, it is crucial to consider those who are following our leadership. Just as Joshua instructed the priests to stand still in the Jordan, we must be mindful of the well-being and readiness of those under our leadership. Proper alignment with our followers involves caring for their needs, ensuring their safety, and leading by example with faith and obedience.
If you're a leader, whether of a family unit or a corporation, you must be mindful of those who move more slowly than you do. Some are hindered in various ways that you may not understand and cannot relate to, but they deserve deliverance too. Don't leave them behind to be swallowed up by the raging waters that will soon be released.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the account of the Israelites crossing the Jordan River presents a powerful illustration of proper alignment for leadership. By aligning ourselves with God’s call, other committed leaders, and those following our leadership, we can navigate the challenges of leadership with faith, wisdom, and unity. Let us heed the lessons from Joshua 3 and strive to be properly aligned for the leadership roles to which God has called us.