February 23, 2024 - Joshua 1

Joshua is one of my favorite OT books.  After much wandering around in the wilderness and all, events really start moving ahead.  To Joshua and the people, the Lord commands, “Arise, go . . .” (1:2).  Things start popping, quickly:  “Every place that the sole of your foot will tread upon I have given to you, just as I promised to Moses” (1:3).  Their feet have not yet trod upon those places, but God has already given those places to Israel!  Now, that’s something to ponder.

And what must Israel do?  “Only be strong and very courageous, being careful to do according to all the law that Moses my servant commanded you” (1:7).  Easier said than done, but very do-able, if only Israel will do it.

And what must Israel not do?  “Do not be frightened, and do not be dismayed, for the Lord your God is with you wherever you go” (1:10).  Again, easier said than done, especially when the battle turns.  But all they have to do is remember all the other times that God has gone with them and given them the victory.  God has not changed!

And the people said to Joshua, “All that you have commanded us we will do, and wherever you send us we will go.  Just as we obeyed Moses in all things, so we will obey you” (1:16,17).  Oops!  They’re going to obey Joshua just like they obeyed Moses?  Could be trouble.

Only one chapter, but a chapter that really gets you thinking and ready for all that is to follow.  How long before every place is theirs?  Will the people really be strong and courageous and obedient?  I will say this, though both will play their parts, it’s a good thing the story’s outcome is ultimately dependent upon God, not the people.  And so, we sing:

Fear not, brethren; joyful stand

On the borders of our land;

Jesus Christ, our Father’s Son,

Bids us undismayed go on,

Bids us undismayed go on.

Lord, obediently we’ll go,

Gladly leaving all below;

Only Thou our leader be,

And we still will follow Thee,

And we still will follow Thee.   -- John Cennick (1743)