February 13, 2022 - Joshua 1-6

Moses is dead. Now, Joshua takes the reins of leadership. But it is clear that all that is about to take place is the Lord’s doing. He will work through Joshua and others, but the victories over Israel’s enemies and the giving of the land, ultimately, is due to God's faithfulness and power: “Just as I was with Moses, so I will be with you. I will not leave you or forsake you. Be strong and courageous, for you shall cause this people to inherit the land that I swore to their fathers to give them” (1:5,6).

So many story lines here: the faithfulness of the tribes of Manasseh, Reuben, and Gad; Rahab’s assistance & inclusion in Israel, crossing the Jordan & the first Passover in Canaan, the commander of the Lord’s army, and the taking of Jericho. Quite an involved story, and through it all, the Lord is on his throne and accomplishing his good and perfect will for his people.

We make our plans. We have our hopes and dreams. Sometimes, those hopes and dreams come to pass; sometimes they don’t. But we can know, through it all, that our faithful heavenly Father is orchestrating things for our good, just as he did for Israel.

Day by day and with each passing moment,

Strength I find to meet my trials here;

Trusting in my Father’s wise bestowment,

I’ve no cause for worry or for fear.

He whose heart is kind beyond all measure

Gives unto each day what he deems best–

Lovingly, its part of pain and pleasure,

Mingling toil with peace and rest. -- Carolina Sandell (1865)