As I prepare to preach for Father’s Day at Victory Makati, I found myself reflecting deeply on the kind of man God calls to lead. Not just fathers, not just pastors, not just influencers—but men.

Our world is noisy and chaotic. There’s tension on the streets, unrest in our hearts, and confusion about what real manhood looks like. Sadly, too many men today are either passive, distracted, or simply exhausted. But the Bible doesn’t give us permission to withdraw. Instead, it calls us to rise up.

And in the middle of this reflection, I was drawn again to the life of Joshua.

He wasn’t flashy. He didn’t seek the spotlight. But he was faithful.

When Moses asked God to appoint the next leader of Israel, God pointed to Joshua:
“Take Joshua the son of Nun, a man in whom is the Spirit…” (Numbers 27:18, ESV)

God didn’t look for charisma—He looked for character. For a man led by the Spirit. That’s the same kind of leader He is still looking for today.

The Joshua We Need Today

Joshua stepped into a mess, not a comfortable throne. He led a nation known for complaining, rebelling, and going in circles. Sound familiar?

Many Filipino men today are in similar situations—trying to lead a family on a tight budget, navigating toxic work environments, trying to stay faithful in a culture of compromise. But like Joshua, we are still called to show up.

Here’s what I’ve learned about Joshua-style leadership—and why we need it more than ever:

1. Joshua Was Spirit-Led, Not Self-Promote

Joshua didn’t force himself into leadership. He wasn’t obsessed with influence or attention. What set him apart was that the Spirit of God was in him.

In today’s world, we’re tempted to lead from our titles, our status, or our salary. But spiritual leadership begins in private, not in public.

Modern-day reminder: You don’t have to be loud to be strong. Start by walking with God in private—praying, obeying, repenting, and growing. Your family will notice. Your team will notice. And God will use you.

2. Joshua Got His Hands Dirty

He didn’t inherit a perfect system. He inherited a struggling people. And instead of avoiding the hard stuff, he leaned into it.

Today, leadership means staying when things get messy—facing financial struggles with honesty, staying faithful when marriage is hard, mentoring others even when you feel inadequate.

A real man shows up. Even when it’s uncomfortable.

3. Joshua Led by Example, Not Just Words

Joshua didn’t just talk. He fought, he listened, he served, and he obeyed. And that kind of leadership is desperately needed today.

For many men today, this looks like:

• Starting the day in prayer—even before checking your phone.
• Serving your wife not just with provision, but with presence.
• Leading your team with integrity, even if it costs you something.

People are not just listening to what you say—they’re watching how you live.

4. Joshua Prioritized God’s Presence Over Human Strategy

What made Joshua successful wasn’t a brilliant battle plan—it was his obedience to God.

In a culture obsessed with hustle, strategy, and networking, godly men choose to prioritize presence—God’s presence. They make decisions based on God’s voice, not just market trends or emotions.

Leading your business, your family, or your ministry without prayer is like trying to drive with your eyes closed. If you want to lead well, you must kneel first.

5. You Are More Than a Conqueror

You might feel unqualified. That’s okay. Joshua probably did too. But God doesn’t wait for perfect men—He equips available men.

“In all these things we are more than conquerors through him who loved us.” (Romans 8:37)
“If God is for us, who can be against us?” (Romans 8:31)

The world says “real men win.” The Bible says real men serve.
The world says “protect your image.” The Bible says surrender your life.

If we had a Joshua in every barangay, in every boardroom, in every household—what would our nation look like?

Brotherly Reminder…

I’m not just encouraging dads—I’m speaking to every Filipino man reading this.

We need more Joshuas.

Men who lead with courage, walk in the Spirit, and serve with humility.
Men who stay, pray, forgive, build, mentor, and obey.
Men who carry the burden of leadership, not for glory, but for God.

Brother, rise up. Be the Joshua your community needs.

May I invite you to listen to my Father’s Day Preaching at Victory Makati this June 15, 2025 (Sunday)? You can catch me at our 3pm or 5pm Worship Service at the 2nd Floor of Makati Diamond Residences, near Greenbelt. Hope to see you!