Scripture Text: Joshua 1:10-18
And they answered 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. Only may the LORD your God be with you, as he was with Moses!
Joshua 1:16-17
Joshua commanded and instructed Israel's officers to prepare the people to cross over Jordan River to enter the Promised Land [officers referred to those whom Moses had appointed over the divisions within the tribes (Exodus 18:21, Deuteronomy 1:15)].
In the ancient Near East, a change of leadership would typically involve a pledge of loyalty to the new leader that is why Joshua immediately checked their hearts and assured loyalty, sincerity and commitment first to God. Then, the officers of each tribe and all people were committed to obey Joshua. They agreed also that whoever opposes and disobeys God's command through Joshua shall be put to death. People were also encouraged and prayed for him just to be strong and brave because this task is a huge accountability, responsibility, obligation to God and to people (v. 18).
All men 20 years old and above were expected and obliged to participate in combat/war (v. 14b) while all wives, females, and the kids belonged to the support group (preparation of food, doing household activities, and taking care of the livestock).
Possessing the Promised Land was the fulfilment of God's covenant for Israelites as this is their rest/home (v. 13) and for them to be recognized as one nation (Israel).
In our modern time, "home" is important for every person whether he/she owned or rented the house and must be a legitimate citizen of one country.
The people who were called by Christ need also a home church, for their spiritual growth and rest because Jesus Christ alone is the Head of the Church and His proper people are part of a church body. Every soul is precious and important to God, and the Lord desires all souls to be saved.
Our Lord Jesus anointed pastor(s) to lead the church together with the servant leaders and everyone must be encouraged to engage and involve seriously in the church ministry designed for them by God according to their spiritual gift given by the Holy Spirit. The whole congregation must be loyal, sincere and committed to our Lord Jesus. People need spiritual rest in Christ, through the Holy Spirit. The church is the vessel for the spiritual journey of His proper people going to the eternal inheritance (spiritual rest/home-in heaven!)
Reflect
1. Are you committed to Christ forever?
2. Is your commitment to Christ through His church still at 100% despite difficulties in your daily life?
3. Which commitment is your top priority: your job, your family, your home church, or your Lord and Savior Jesus Christ?
Remember
1. Commitment to Christ is not a loss, because He is everything to us.
2. Commitment to Christ should last up to eternity.
3. Commitment to Jesus Christ through His church is essential for us.
4. God's commitment never changes, He remains faithful to His children.
Read
Exodus 18:21; Deuteronomy 1:15; Colossians 1:18; Ephesians 1:22-23; Romans 1:11-12; Hebrews 2:4
Prayer
Lord Jesus, thank You for the life and for the loving-kindness You extend to us. I ask wisdom from the Holy Spirit to fulfill our duty, responsibility and commitment to You, to Your church, and to our family. Whatever circumstance and difficulty is in our daily lives, please do not allow them to hinder and affect our worship to You. Please fix our hearts to commit our whole life to You. Let us be ready to obey whatever You want us to do. In Your Name. Amen!
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