From Brigham Young University's Maxwell Institute, this is the Maxwell Institute

podcast, Faith Illuminating Scholarship.

In 2026, we are releasing a series called Old Testament Reflections.

Each week, a scholar offers a short reflection on the Come Follow Me reading.

Today's piece, As I was with Moses.

The Book of Joshua in filling prophetic shoes is written and read by Scott Esplin.

Imagine the pressure Joshua felt to succeed Moses, the deliverer of Israel, the great lawgiver.

The Book of Numbers called Moses very meek above all the men which were upon the face of

the earth, Numbers 12.3.

While Deuteronomy concluded, there arose not a prophet sense in Israel like unto Moses,

whom the Lord knew face to face.

Deuteronomy 3410.

In both of these tributes to Moses, the biblical author introduces

a comparison, first between Moses and mankind, and later between others with a prophetic mantle.

And yet, comparison can be the thief of joy, as former U.S. President Theodore Roosevelt reportedly

warned. So how did Joshua avoid the debilitating effects of comparison?

How might we do the same when tempted to think we can't possibly fill the large shoes

left by a predecessor?

Possibly sensing the success and challenge ahead, Moses wisely called Joshua to him, counseling,

Be strong and of a good courage, and the Lord, he it is that does go before thee,

he will be with thee, he will not fail thee, neither forsake thee, fear not, neither be dismayed.

Deuteronomy 31, 7 through 8. Since relying on the Lord with unshaken faith allowed Moses to successfully

...