Good morning,
November 1 is my 10th anniversary at WASI. It has been an honor to serve for this many years. God called me specifically for this ministry. Along the way God has challenged me in different areas. When Joshua was called God challenged him to GO, BE STRONG, to PREPARE, and OBEY. As we study Joshua 1, I will share how God challenged me in these areas.
Israel is preparing to go into the promised land. Moses will not be leading them. God has chosen a new leader, Joshua. This week we will look at the transition of leadership. Please read Deuteronomy 31:1-23, 34:1-12 for the historical background. Joshua 1 will be our text.
“And Joshua the son of Nun was full of the spirit of wisdom; for Moses had laid his hands upon him: and the children of Israel hearkened unto him, and did as the Lord commanded Moses.” (Deuteronomy 34:9)
God’s Command (V5-9)
“There shall not any man be able to stand before thee all the days of thy life: as I was with Moses, so I will be with thee: I will not fail thee, nor forsake thee. 6 Be strong and of a good courage: for unto this people shalt thou divide for an inheritance the land, which I sware unto their fathers to give them. 7 Only be thou strong and very courageous, that thou mayest observe to do according to all the law, which Moses my servant commanded thee: turn not from it to the right hand or to the left, that thou mayest prosper withersoever thou goest. 8 This book of the law shall not depart out of thy mouth; but thou shalt meditate therein day and night, that thou mayest observe to do according to all that is written therein: for then thou shalt make thy way prosperous, and then thou shalt have good success. 9 Have not I commanded thee? Be strong and of a good courage; be not afraid, neither be thou dismayed: for the Lord thy God is with thee whithersoever thou goest.”
God tells Joshua to be strong and courageous. He uses this term three times. He encourages Joshua by telling him that no man shall stand in his way and that He would be with him. God admonishes Joshua to observe all the law, not to turn from it, and meditate on it daily. God will make his way prosperous and successful.
This is an excellent example for believers as we tackle the tribulations of our lives. Be strong and of a good courage, read and meditate on God’s word, and trust God in every area of our lives.
“Let your conversation be without covetousness; and be content with such things as ye have: for he hath said, I will never leave thee, nor forsake thee.6 So that we may boldly say, The Lord is my helper, and I will not fear what man shall do unto me.” (Hebrews 13:5-6)
Is that what we believe? If so, are we boldly proclaiming Christ to others by our attitudes and actions?
Tom Stearns, WASI Chaplain, 907 715-4001 chaplain@alaskaseniors.com
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