Daily Devotions
Exodus
"I have inclined my heart to perform Your statutes forever, to the very end." Psalm 119:112
Text: Exodus 24 : 13
JOSHUA THE COMMANDER
Joshua was first introduced in the Biblical text, as the one Moses entrusted with the defence of Israel when the Amalekites attacked (Cf. Exodus 17:9). Patriotically he led a militia-type army against Amalek. He stood out that day as the one who successfully routed Amalek (Cf. Exodus 17:8-16). He seemed to have “disappeared” from the scene after that!
MENTION OF JOSHUA AGAIN
Where was Joshua after his success at war? The following text described a special role that he was given!
“So Moses arose with his assistant Joshua,
and Moses went up to the mountain of God.”
EXODUS 24:13
1. Joshua had become Moses’ aide
He might not have been mentioned too many times in the Biblical text. However, this mention was most significant! He had become Moses’ assistant.
2. His role as Moses’ assistant
What was his role as Moses’ assistant? Let us ponder the following thoughts:-
a) He would be in close proximity to Moses.
b) He would double up as his “body-guard”.
c) He would be Moses’ right-hand man in many matters, especially in matters of defence.
d) He would literally wait upon Moses as if he was his personal servant!
3. Would Joshua have minded being known as “Moses’ assistant”?
a) He was not mentioned by name as Nadab and Abihu (contemporaries).
b) He was not listed among the elders of Israel (too young).
c) He would always be overshadowed by Moses, the man of God.
FORTY YEARS LATER
Joshua stood by his leader and mentor loyally. God would honour him in due time. He went on to succeed Moses! That was certainly no easy task at all.
“Now Joshua the son of Nun was full of the spirit of wisdom,
for Moses had laid his hands on him…”
DEUTERONOMY 34:9