Joshua 1 -- A Few Funerals Can Be A Good Thing?

Moses was the last of the generation who’d left Egypt who would not be allowed to enter the Promised Land.  So the leadership mantle was passed to Joshua and Moses had died.  The people had witnessed God’s directing the changeover, and now instead of wondering in the desert for more years, they too would switch to conquering the Promised Land as God had said.  “Before God could fulfill His promises, however, Joshua had to exercise faith and be strong  and have courage … In short, God’s promises are prods, not pillows,” my commentary said.  “Divine sovereignty is not a substitute for human responsibility.”

 

Joshua and Caleb were now the two oldest men in the camp, yet they were fired up about their task.  My commentary said, “The older we get, the more danger there is that we’ll get set in our ways and become sanctified obstructionists, but it doesn’t have to happen … It isn’t a matter of age; it’s a matter of faith…  It’s unfortunate but true that sometimes the only way a ministry can move forward is by conducting a few funerals.”

 

Joshua 1 is always special to me because I was reading it as I was adopting my first son from Ukraine.  Struggling with what American name I would call him, I decided Joshua was very fitting, and I had the translator tell him God’s words to this Joshua who also was about to enter a strange but wonderful new land, where he probably did not understand the language either.  God said to my Josh, too:  “I will be with you.  I will not leave you or forget you.  Joshua, be strong and brave!” 

 

Those are awesome memories and awesome promises from my God.  Thank You, Father, for all You’ve done for me by leading me to a new land and giving me the promised sons I have.  Help me to lead them as Joshua led the people.  Also help me as I grow older not to ever become a sanctified obstructionist.

 

Your brother in Christ,

 

Gary Ford