SCRIPTURE: Joshua 23
OBSERVATION/APPLICATION:
But if you turn away and ally yourselves with the survivors of these nations that remain among you and if you intermarry with them and associate with them, then you may be sure that the LORD your God will no longer drive out these nations before you. Instead, they will become snares and traps for you, whips on your backs and thorns in your eyes, until you perish from this good land, which the LORD your God has given you. [Joshua 23:12-13]
Despite our best intentions, there are so many distractions and temptations that can cause us to turn aside from following the Lord.
As we know from Israel’s history (read Judges), its only a matter of time before they Israelites fall into the traps and snares of their neighbours.
And eventually, they lose their place in the land.
Jesus replied, ‘No one who puts his hand to the plow and looks back is fit for service in the kingdom of God.’ [Luke 9:62]
Not fit for life in the kingdom.
We cannot have it both ways, one foot in the world and one foot in the kingdom of God.
Think of a spouse who wants to enjoy the commitment and support of their partner AND to enjoy the pleasures of an affair as well.
They are not fit for the marriage.
The song I have decided to follow Jesus communicates this well, reminding us that the Lord wants our whole heart, not just a little of it.
No turning back, no turning back!
What are the things that are enticing or distracting me from following the Lord?
PRAYER:
Lord, I know that there are things beckoning me away from You. Help me to stand firm, and cling to You.
Joshua is recalling HisStory – all what the Lord God has done for the people. Am I able to do that – to recall ALL what the Lord God had done for me – how He works and is present in my life each day? Where have I seen Him today? Where is He later in the day? I need to always walk with my God.
Do this and LIVE. That’s what the Master said. ““Be very strong; be careful to obey all that is written in the Book of the Law of Moses, without turning aside to the right or to the left.” Whose voice am I listening to each day? I must hold fast to the WAY. This is the WAY. Walk in it!
Thus, no turning back. No violating His promises. He has fulfilled all His promises and I must do the same – so help me God. I must keep my eyes focused on HOME. I am traveling and my destination is to be with Him forever. Today’s place is just temporary but tomorrow . . . As Israel were journeying under His leadership each day and saw His presence so I too need to continue my journey in His name – in His presence. Pilgrim’s progress until . . .
Onward, Christian soldiers, marching as to war,
With the cross of Jesus going on before.
Christ, the royal Master, leads against the foe;
Forward into battle see His banners go!
Refrain:
Onward, Christian soldiers, marching as to war,
With the cross of Jesus going on before.