Iron Sharpens Iron: Life-to-Life® Mentoring in the Old TestamentSample

Day 2: Moses and Joshua

Moses was God’s man at a key time in the history of God’s people. God used him to lead the Hebrews out of Egypt and eventually to the threshold of the promised land.

Moses chose a dozen men, representing the 12 tribes of Israel, to scout out the land. Among them was Joshua, son of Nun, from the tribe of Ephraim (Numbers 13:16). He, along with another member of the twelve, Caleb, brought a good report reflecting confidence that, with God’s help, they could take possession of the promised land!

Moses’ relationship with Joshua throughout the books of Exodus and Numbers sheds light on the importance of intergenerational, life-to-life mentoring. (For deeper reflection, see Exodus 24:13; 32:17; 33:11; and Numbers 11:25-29; 13:1-14:10.) 

Throughout the Hebrews’ 40-year trek through the Sinai wilderness, the Lord used Moses to build into a “FAT” man, someone who is Faithful, Available, and Teachable. In so doing, through life-to-life mentoring, Moses raised up the next leader of the Hebrews. Joshua would ultimately lead God’s people into the promised land. 

What can we learn from Moses’ example? Prayerfully consider coming alongside a younger person in your sphere of influence. As God showed Moses someone who remained close to God and close to him, perhaps God will show you a similar “FAT” person. Who are tomorrow’s men and women of God? Perhaps God will use you to raise up a future leader of family, friends, even of a church or parachurch ministry!