Scripture to Read: Joshua 1:1–5
Moses had died, and God had chosen Joshua to lead the Israelites into the promised land. Rahab became a key figure that God used as the Israelites planned to cross the Jordan and first enter the promised land. But before we get to Rahab, in Joshua 1, God spoke to Joshua, reminding him of all He would do for them. God also reminded Joshua of what He expected him and the Israelites to do each day of their lives. In Joshua 1:3–4, God reminded Joshua of all the land God was giving to the Israelites. In Joshua 1:5, God reminded Joshua that “No man will be able to stand before you all the days of your life. Just as I have been with Moses, I will be with you; I will not fail you or forsake you.” This promise of God had to be incredibly encouraging and empowering to Joshua. Again, it was a reminder to Joshua, for God had spoken these words through Moses to Joshua in Deuteronomy 31:6, 8, when God was preparing Joshua to lead. Through Christ our Lord, God has given this same promise to us as His children in Hebrews 13:5. God did not want Joshua to fear what He had called him to do, and He wanted to assure him that He was with him. God is with us, as His children, in a much more intimate way, for He dwells in us through His Holy Spirit. Therefore, we have nothing to fear, for God is not just with us but in us.
Challenge & Application
Why were the words that God spoke to Joshua so encouraging and empowering?
Why should we not fear anything we face in this life, and what assurance does God give us?
Don’t forget to pray using the A.C.T.S. (Adoration, Confession, Thanksgiving, Supplication) method!