Our Scripture reading today is Deuteronomy 3:28, "But charge Joshua, and encourage him, and strengthen him: for he shall go over before this people, and he shall cause them to inherit the land which thou shalt see."
The instructions given here to Moses were in reference to preparing Joshua to take over the role of leading the children of Israel. At some point, Moses would be passing the baton to the next generation. The word, "charge, means to command or commission; to appoint. Even though he was considered a great leader, Moses did not live for ever and neither will we. Time and energy must be given to equip those who are coming behind us to faithfully follow the LORD.
God instructs Moses to encourage and strengthen Joshua. When we encourage someone we are with God's help putting courage in them. It is important to remember and encourage others that the battle is the Lord's. 1 Samuel 17:47, "And all this assembly shall know that the LORD saveth not with sword and spear: for the battle is the LORD'S, and he will give you into our hands." This promise is meant to encourage us when times are challenging. We are to remind one another often Who our help comes from. Psalm 121:1-2, "I will lift up mine eyes unto the hills, from whence cometh my help. My help cometh from the LORD, which made heaven and earth." Might we be faithful prepare others the way Moses prepared Joshua.