Read Joshua 1
Note: While
reading Joshua it will be helpful to use a map of Israel’s conquests. There are
excellent maps in many study Bibles, in libraries and on the internet. Locating
the events in Joshua on a map A) helps us follow the story and keeps us from
getting confused about what Israel is doing at any given time and B) reminds us
that these are real, historical events, not man-made myths.
The Book
of Joshua begins with Israel in the plains of Moab. The Promised Land is only a
short journey east across the Jordan River. It had been forty years since God
delivered Israel from captivity in Egypt. Because of the people’s rebellion,
they had to spend this time wandering throughout the desert. Now the Promised
Land was in sight! One can only imagine the excitement and anticipation that
was in their air at the camp. Before the story continues there is a pause to
remind us of an important message: God was in control of these events, not
humans. The first chapter of Joshua contains one of the Old Testament’s most
well-known exhortations from God. Half of the chapter recites God’s words to
Joshua: “I will be with you; I will not fail you or forsake you. Be strong and
courageous” (v 5-6). God, in His wisdom, knew that challenging times of battle
lay ahead. Joshua, like any leader, needed to know that he was not alone. God
would ultimately guide Israel, Joshua needed merely to follow God.
Prayer and Journaling
1. Joshua did not have to be afraid of what
was to come because he could trust in God’s character and His promises. Joshua
knew that God was faithful and all-powerful. Relying on an intimate knowledge
of God can empower us to follow Him, even in the most difficult situations.
Re-read Joshua 1:5-9, asking the Holy Spirit to speak to you personally through
these words.
2. God’s promises in Scripture are often
conditional on our obedience. He promises us life and eternal reward if we will
follow Him wholeheartedly (v 8). Spend some time in confession today. Ask the
Holy Spirit to search your heart for any hidden sin. Then ask God to speak to
you about the consequences for sin and the rewards for obedience.
3. The Western Church often fails to
understand the importance of personal holiness and the painful consequences of
sin. How we conduct ourselves reflects a heart of either worship or rebellion. Spend
some time in confession today on behalf of the Church in Canada. Take a few
moments to reflect on what to confess and then repent of these sins before God
on behalf of the Church. After you’ve done this, pray for an awakening in the
Body of Christ in the area of personal holiness.
