There is a leadership question we often get backward, and I want to talk about it today.
If you’ve ever led a project, launched a business idea, or made a bold decision hoping—really hoping—God was backing you up, you’re not alone. It’s human nature. We work, we strive, we plan…and then we ask, “God, are You with me?”
But what if we’ve been asking the wrong question?
Before Joshua marched around the walls of Jericho, he had a mysterious and divine encounter that flipped his perspective—and it should flip ours too.
Joshua’s Surprising Encounter
Just before the battle, Joshua sees a man with a drawn sword standing nearby. Not knowing who this warrior is, Joshua does what any good leader would do—he assesses the situation and asks:
“Are you for us, or for our adversaries?”
(Joshua 5:13)
It’s a reasonable question, right? Friend or foe? Ally or enemy?
But the answer Joshua gets is not what he expected:
“No; but I am the commander of the army of the Lord. Now I have come.”
(Joshua 5:14)
In essence, the commander says, “I’m not here to take sides. I’m here to take charge.”
Joshua falls to the ground in worship, instantly recognizing the authority of the one before him.
Why This Matters for Christian Leaders Today
As leaders—especially in business—it’s easy to assume that our plans are inherently good and that God will surely be on our side. After all, we’ve prayed about it, right? Maybe even asked for wisdom?
But this encounter reminds us of a crucial truth:
The question is not whether God is on our side. The real question is: Are we on His?
God isn’t a co-pilot. He’s not a silent partner or a consultant we call in after we’ve already committed the budget and hired the team. He is the Commander. The General. The One whose plans must define our own.
The Danger of Assuming God Is with Us
When we assume God is with us because we’re Christians or because we’ve been “doing good things,” we risk walking in presumption instead of obedience.
That’s what King Saul did—he offered sacrifices himself instead of waiting for Samuel. It looked spiritual, but it was rebellion. (1 Samuel 13)
When we make decisions and then ask God to bless them, we’re treating Him like a good-luck charm.
But when we humble ourselves, fall facedown like Joshua, and ask, “Lord, what do You command your servant to do?” (Joshua 5:14), we’re placing ourselves under God’s authority—not trying to place Him under ours.
Conclusion
Joshua was a proven warrior and chosen successor to Moses. He had the skills, the experience, and the authority. But before the first trumpet sounded around Jericho, God reminded him: This mission isn’t yours. It’s Mine.
As Christian business leaders, it’s easy to get swept up in strategy, deadlines, and outcomes. But we must pause long enough to ask the deeper question—not “Is God with me?” but “Am I with God?”
That simple shift changes everything. It moves us from anxiety to assurance, from control to surrender, and from merely doing for God to truly being with Him.
Action Steps for Leaders
If you’re a Christian leader—whether you run a business, lead a team, or manage your family—here are a few practical steps to realign your leadership with God’s direction:
- Seek God’s Will First, Not Last
Start your planning with prayer and Scripture. Don’t just invite God to bless your work—ask Him to define it.
- Check Your Motives
Ask yourself: Is this about advancing God’s Kingdom… or just mine? Be honest with yourself and open to correction.
- Listen Before You Lead
Spend time in quiet, active listening. God often leads through His Word, His Spirit, and wise counsel. Don’t rush forward without hearing from Him.
- Be Willing to Change Course
If God redirects you—even after you’ve invested time, money, or reputation—trust Him enough to pivot. Obedience always trumps sunk cost.
- Stay in Humble Submission
Like Joshua, fall facedown before God regularly. Worship is the posture of surrendered leadership.
Discussion Questions
To reflect more deeply or discuss with your team or small group:
- When was the last time you asked, “God, are You with me?” How did He respond?
- What are some signs that you may be leading for God without actually following with Him?
- In what ways do we tend to treat God like a silent partner instead of Commander?
- Have you ever had to change direction after realizing your plans weren’t aligned with God’s? What was that like?
- What daily or weekly habit could help you ensure you’re staying aligned with God’s leadership in your life?
More Articles
I have written several articles on dependence on God. You can find them by typing ‘Dependence on God’ in the search bar. Meanwhile, here are a few of the most recent articles.
- #641: Let God Write Your Story: Trusting the Author of Your Life
- #634: The Power of Prayer in Leadership: A Story of Strength and Guidance
- #627: Unleashing Courage: The Key to Successfully Integrating Faith at Work
- #622: Facing Crisis: 5 Lessons from Jehoshaphat for Christian Leaders
- #599: Divine Intervention: 6 Lessons for Christian Business Leaders
Join the Conversation
As always, we welcome questions and comments. Have you ever found yourself like Joshua asking, “God, are you with me?” rather than ensuring you are with God?
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Category: Personal Development | Dependence on God
This reminds me of people who try to negotiate with God, as if He’s a business rival.