They were the exception to the rule, the two leaders who showed strength and courage when the majority faltered. G-d knew that in order to lead the Israelites into the Promised Land, Joshua would need to be strong and unwavering, just as he had been in the past.
In conclusion, both Moses and G-d offered valuable insights into leadership styles to Joshua. Moses emphasized the importance of consultation and consensus-building, recognizing the need for participative leadership to foster growth and change. On the other hand, G-d highlighted the necessity for strong and decisive leadership in critical moments, where firmness and unwavering determination are required.
Joshua would need to strike a balance between these two approaches, knowing when to consult and listen, and when to take charge and lead with authority. By embracing both styles of leadership, Joshua would be able to navigate the challenges ahead and guide the Israelites into the land promised to them by G-d.
Regenerate
G-d was saying to Joshua that there will be one future trial in which you must stand firm, even against the majority, and that will come when you are about to cross the Jordan. That is when the people are in danger of giving way to fear.
That is when your leadership will consist, not in consultation and consensus, but in allowing no dissent. That is when âit will all depend on you… There is only one leader for a generation, not two.â Sometimes even the most consensual leaders must lead from the front and bring the people with them.
There is a time to discuss and a time to act, a time to seek agreement and a time to move ahead without waiting for agreement. That is what both G-d and Moses were telling Joshua in their different ways.
A leader must have the courage to lead, the patience to consult, and the wisdom to know when the time is right for each.