SCRIPTURE: Joshua 1:10-18
OBSERVATION:
1. Joshua has been well-prepared to lead this rag tag assembly of homeless nomads. He was a bold army commander (Exodus 17:9-14) who served as Moses aide for many years (Numbers 11:28), and also demonstrated a remarkable faith in God when facing the giants of Canaan (Numbers 14:1-10).
2. Joshua also inspires his followers with a sense of confidence and loyalty, as is evident by the response of the men from the tribes of Reuben, Gad and Manasseh (1:16-18).
3. Joshua receives his direction from God, then relays it without grumbling or hesitation to the people. Even though they were heading into dangerous enemy country, with giant inhabitants and fortified cities, even though they were about to cross the raging waters of the Jordan (which was at flood stage, 3:15).
4. Joshua’s success depended on the Lord being with him, just as with Moses.
1. I do not feel prepared for my mission, especially when it takes me out of my comfort zone. I am more likely to hesitate or grumble.
2. One difference between me and Joshua is that he received clear directions from God. But another difference to my advantage is that I have seen God’s will and purpose for me lived out perfectly in Jesus. In addition, I have the Spirit of God in me. I may not know the particulars of God’s will for my life, but Jesus has given me enough direction to be able to figure it out… IF I WANT TO!
3. I need the Lord to be with me too. Like Moses, I should refuse to do anything unless I sense the Lord with me (Exodus 33:15-16). To sense this I need to consciously seek Him, to seek His will, and to put myself in a place where I am near to Him.PRAYER:
Lord, inspire me with a similar sense of calling as Joshua, with a clear sense of my calling and purpose. Then enable me to step up, like Joshua, and follow You obediently. Amen.