Joshua Chapter 1

The book of Joshua begins with a death and a promise.

I think you could call it a huge split in the old testament, the end of Moses, and the passing off of his legacy onto his assistant Joshua. Now the book starts with God reminding Joshua that he would be with him like he was with Moses.

It's here that God gives Joshua something for him to do and uphold. Joshua be strong and courageous' cause you're going to cause this people to inherit the land I promised to their fathers. And then he goes a step further, be strong and VERY COURAGEOUS! and keep the law that Moses commanded him to keep. (v6-7) Meditate on it day and night, this is the key to your success. (v9) And Haven't I already commanded you before? be strong and courageous, don't be frightened.

It strikes me how God encouraged Joshua. It was more of a Bro look at all I accomplished through Moses. Now I'm giving that power to you. He's trained you, I'm going to be with you. And I promise you, you're gonna enter the promised land. Haven't I been with you, walked with you, commanded you? Don't be afraid!

And Josh's first act is to go through the camp telling people to get ready, we're crossing the Jordan to the land of promise, we're heading for the sunrise! (v15) The interesting thing is that the people respond in the same way God responded. We'll follow you like we did moses, just be strong and courageous.

There's two things that strike me about this section of scripture.
1. As a leader what God was telling Joshua, he was also preparing Israel to obey.
2. Joshua's role was three fold, remember Moses' I'm going to bless you like I did him, keep close to the word, don't get freaked out, be bold strong and courageous.

Okay so now how do you turn this practical?

God is preparing his people, to follow what you're leading them to.
But I need to be strong and courageous in my decisions.
Remember that God has done great things through my friends and leaders.
And keep close to the word.

Let's see how it Goes!

Amen.