The Order to Cross the Jordan

George was 28 years old, single, and still living with his parents. One Sunday morning, George told his mother he wasn’t going to church. “First,” he said, “I’’m tired. Second, the people there don’’t like me. And third, the sermons are dull.” But George’’s mo … More

Leadership

God had commanded Joshua in verse 9 and now in this passage the newly appointed leader, Joshua speaks to the people and the people respond to support him. Joshua first told the leaders what God had told him, then the leaders quickly passed the message to their people. There was preparation to be made because in only three days they would cross the Jordan and enter the Promise Land. They told Joshua “we  will do” and “we will go.” Under one condition they were willing to follow Joshua and that was if he showed clear evidence that he was being led of God. This was a wise precaution and one that should be carefully followed by all of the Lord’s people today; otherwise we find “blind leaders of the blind.” Notice Joshua’s response to God’s command included:

  1. A Promptness (v. 10). “Then” Once a duty is discovered it should be done right away.
  2. A Plan (v. 10). “Joshua commanded the officers of the people saying.”
  3. A Preparation (v. 11a). “Prepare you victuals; for within three days ye shall pass over.”
  4. A Promise (v. 11b). “To go in to possess the land which the Lord your God giveth you.”
  5. A People (vv. 12-15). “To the Reubenites, to the Gadites and to half the tribe of Manasseh.”
  6. A Pledge (vv. 16-17a). “They answered Joshua, all that thou commandest us we will do.”
  7. A Prayer (v. 17b). “Only the Lord thy God be with thee, as He was with Moses.”
  8. A Punishment (v. 18). “Whosoever he be that does rebel....he shall be put to death.”

Also in verse 18 like in 6-7 and 9 the command is emphasized to be strong and of a good courage. The next time you are afraid to do what you know is right, remember that strength and courage are readily available from God.

Application

Agreeing to God’s plan means that I must know what the plan is (as found in the Bible) and carry it out on a daily basis.

Joshua 1:10-18 (English Standard Version)


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