Text: Numbers 27:12-21
Memory Verse: “Then Moses spoke to the Lord, saying: ‘Let the Lord, the God of the spirits of all flesh, set a man over the congregation’” (Numbers 27:15&16).
lA leadership gap arises when someone occupying a leadership position lacks the requisite skills or preparation to lead effectively. This often results from the absence of a proper succession plan, a common issue in many churches and organisations. When leadership transitions are not carefully planned, crises frequently erupt following a leader’s exit.
In Numbers 27, Moses demonstrates a critical leadership quality, succession planning. He did not want to leave his assignment without ensuring the right person was ready to take over. When God told him it was time to step aside, he prayed, “O Lord, you are the God who gives breath to all creatures. Please appoint a new man as leader for the community” (Numbers 27:16, NLT). Moses sought a successor who was both goal-oriented and people-centered. He added that God give them someone who will guide them wherever they go and will
lead them into battle, so the community of God will not be like sheep without a shepherd.
Moses had prepared Joshua over time, giving him various responsibilities to ease the leadership transition. One writer noted, “To minimize leadership gaps, leaders must train others to carry on the work should they suddenly or eventually depart.”
Moses, Paul, and Jesus, all modeled effective succession: they prayed, selected, trained, and commissioned others to continue their work. Are you in a leadership position today? Then ensure you do not exit with a gap. Follow the example of these great leaders by building others up before you leave.
Prayer Points:
1. Lord, please intervene in churches/organisations going through crises due to leadership gaps.
2. Father, help our church leaders to develop others