SCRIPTURE: JOSHUA 1
INTRODUCTION:
The book of Joshua is a record of key events in the history of Israel, their conquest of Canaan, the defeat of their enemy and the division of the land. Joshua was the son of nun of the tribe of Ephraim. His original name was Hoshea which means “salvation”. Moses changed it to “Joshua” which means “Jehovah is salvation”. He served as Moses’ minister during their wilderness journey and fought against Amalek. He was one of the two spies who had faith to enter Canaan when the nation rebelled in disbelief. Because of his faith, he was permitted to enter into the Promised Land. According to tradition, Joshua was 85 years old when he took Moses’ place. He spent his life in conquering the land, dividing up the inheritance and ruling the nation. He died at the age of 110..
BIBLE VERSES:
“Have I not commanded you? Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged, for the Lord your God will be with you wherever you go.”” (Joshua1:9)
THE LORD COMMANDS JOSHUA (vs. 1-18)
- “Be strong and courageous, because you will lead these people to inherit the land I swore to their forefathers to give them.” (v. 6)
- “Be strong and very courageous. Be careful to obey all the law my servant Moses gave you’ do not turn from it to the right or to the left, that you may be successful wherever you go” (v. 7)
- “Do not let this Book of the Law depart from your mouth; meditate on it day and night, so that you may be careful to do everything written in it. Then you will be prosperous and successful” (v. 8)
- “Have I not commanded you? Be strong and courageous. Do not be terrified; do not be discouraged, for the Lord your God will be with you wherever you go” (v. 9)
THE ORDERS OF JOSHUA TO THE OFFICERS OF THE PEOPLE:
- Go through the camp and tell the people to get ready the supplies. Three days from now, we will cross the Jordan and take possession of the land.
- To Reubenites, Gadites and half-tribe of Manasseh, your wives and children and livestock may remain but all your fighting men must join your brothers to take possession of the land.
All the people of Israel obeyed Joshua just as they fully obeyed Moses. Those who disobeyed Joshua will be put to death.
THOUGHTS:
Go had equipped Joshua to replace Moses. Joshua had faithfully served with Moses and was now prepared to lead. This is an example for us to be faithful to do the task that we are doing today. God is getting us ready to do what He wants us to do in the future.
COMPARISON OF JOSHUA AND JESUS (By Warren Wiersbe)
- The name of “Jesus” in Greek is equivalent to “Joshua”. Both mean “God’s salvation” or “Jehovah is the Saviour”.
- Joshua conquered the earthly foes / Jesus leads us to spiritual victory.
- Joshua was to assign the inheritance of Israelites / Christ has given us our inheritance.
The key to Joshua’s success was his submission to God.
QUALIFICATIONS OF JOSHUA:
- He was appointed by God.
- He was one of only two living witnesses to the Egyptian plagues and the Exodus from Egypt.
- He was Moses’ personal aide for 40 years.
- Only Joshua and Caleb showed complete confidence that God would help them conquer the land.
Changes in leadeshsip exists in many organization. New leaders mut be trained and equipped for their position. Those in leadership position should begin preparing someone to take their place for operation to run efficiently and smoothly. Those who are to become leader must learn from other and take preparation when opportunity comes.
Joshua was to lead more than two million people conquer a new strange land. The challenge was frightening. But God was with Joshua. Today, as we face our new challenges , tough situation, difficult people and temptations, ask God to help and direct us to conquer all our challenges.
STRATEGIES TO BE SUCCESSFUL:
- Be strong and courageous; do not be be terrified; do not be discouraged for the Lord is with you.
- Obey God’s Law
- Read and study God’s Word.