Joshua 1-5
Joshua 1
it says be strong and of good courage three times
God is trying to get our attention!
God's word is the key to success
God's call is always matched with provision
Don't fear!
God is with you!
Divine Timing
Moses had to pass before Joshua could step forth!
Take possession
We're supposed to move out of the wilderness!
Life is full of battles and conflicts....we must trust that the Lord is fighting on our behalf! We must have faith in the saving life of Christ. I wonder what leadership am I being called to? Am I afraid of failure over loss? I think not, for I've already lost so much in failure....what do I have to lose by attempting to follow God?
Joshua 2
A prostitute played a big role
She too knew the Lord...anyone can be used!
Melted hearts
The term 'our hearts melted' was repeatedly used to describe fear and dread
The condition of one's heart is important to God!
I wonder why it was meaningful that her house was on the wall of the city...that seemed to be important. And the red marker used to show 'a house that should be passed over' is a recurrent theme....I wonder what markers God uses to show we should be spared? Are we willing to step out of the normal situations of life, trusting God to use us and lead us to ordinary people whose hearts he has touched?
Joshua 3
The ark of the covenant
Represent's God's presence and his promise to his people.
Parting the Jordan just as he did the Red Sea
God makes a way out of no way!
God works miracles!
The Israelites were in Acacia Grove, and the ark of the covenant is made of Acacia Wood. Acacia wood is highly durable, water resistant, and resistant to fungus and pests. Just another way to show that his promises are long lasting, and do not fail in times of trouble.
This whole book speaks to the preparation and dedication we need to live out God's will for our lives. The parting of the Jordan was an act of LITERALLY stepping out on faith! How can I cross over? Am I ready to commit to a life of faith?
Joshua 4
Significance of 12
Symbol of faith, the church, and divine rule. Also God's power and authority.
Use of stones
A common form in the OT of marking a spectacular religious event.
The stones in the Jordan were not only a marker of a significant work of God. They were placed there as an instruction to remind future generations of this journey, God's work and mercy, and a memorial to the Children of Israel. We're supposed to be creating an example for future generations and ensure they never forget their past.
The hand of the Lord is mighty!
Joshua 5
The circumcision
A renewal of faith and act of spiritual preparation.
Gilgal
meaning 'to roll away'. The act of circumcision was symbolic, as was the rolling away of the waters of the Jordan.
The meaning of the Passover
Not only a look to the past , but looking forward to a new life.
Manna
A supernatural gift for the desert journey, but once arrived, no more manna is needed!
Commander of the Army of the Lord
The preincarnate Christ...reminder of God's protection
The meaning of passover and the ceasing of the Manna is probably my favorite takeaway from the chapter. I love that Passover is both a celebration of past and future, and that the manna is there to get us through the wilderness. Once they crossed the Jordan, God would provide food through natural means, and eating that new food was a symbol of more promises to come. What promises can I expect to be filled?
And the commander of the army of the lord...I just pictured an angel warrior! God will move his angelic forces to fight on our behalf!