Joshua Chapters 3-7
As I read the Old Testament I am always amazed at the power of God and the amazing ways He led and provided for his own. God did many miracles for the children of Israel in their departure from Egypt's bondage and journey to the Promise Land.
I would like to draw your attention to Joshua chapters 3-7 where we find Moses is gone, Joshua has been anointed as the leader of Israel and now he is faced with crossing the Jordan.
The scene reminds me of similar scenes we all face. We see a transition in leadership from Moses to Joshua. Moses anoints Joshua and then takes the time to remind Israel of all God had told them about being faithful to His commands. The succession in leadership is underway and there are events that will take place to validate Joshua's leadership role.
In this succession process there are some characteristics that are a reminder of how we might approach change in our own lives and ministry.
Joshua gives us some key characteristics that we can learn from. The following list is how I see them -- you can add to these statements the meaning it has for you and your situation.
Joshua faithfully followed and served Moses for more than 40 years.
Joshua learned to listen to the Lord and follow His direction.
Joshua was faithful to follow the Lord's voice and was obedient.
Joshua risked his reputation and life for the Lord.
The priest who carried the ark had to step into shallow water before the others had the opportunity to walk on dry ground.
Joshua chose 12 men from 12 tribes to go get a stone and build a memorial.
Joshua chose 12 stones himself to build an altar to remind them of God's provision and faithfulness. This is key in all of our lives.
Joshua listened to God's plan on how to fight the battle. Regardless how it sounded - he did what the Lord asked.
Joshua led the army across the Jordan and on to victory.
God's plan brought Israel a great victory and it validated Joshua's leadership. He was confirmed in the eyes of the soldiers and the people. They believed he was hearing from the Lord for himself.
Notice the struggles you have to face:
You have to face rivers.
You have to face high walls.
You have to face enemies that seem bigger than you.
Before any victory is won there are challenges, tests and struggles you must overcome.
You cannot depend on your individual past experience to define your future.
Joshua honored the Lord and took Jericho which was a tithe to the Lord. Jericho was the first city and it was God's. This sets an enormous model for us all to learn from. God's tithe belongs to him and we should always be faithful with the tithe.
It took a dry ground experience - a miracle - before Israel was given the opportunity to claim land. The tithe was given first to the Lord, then the land was dispersed.
Joshua's reputation spread throughout the land and he was feared.
You and I can learn from Joshua's faithfulness throughout the book of Joshua. May we all be like Joshua and finish well.
Jerry Nance
