Joshua 1
The book of Joshua starts with some sad news on the banks of the Jordan river outside of the promised land. The leader of the people, Moses, was now dead and it was time for God to raise up the next leader. Moses struck the rock in Kadesh and because he did not hallow God in the eyes of the children of Israel, he would not enter the promised land (Num. 20:12). Moses is a type of the Law. The Law is a good teacher for us to see our sin, but it will net get us into heaven. Joshua is a type of Christ who leads us to the promised land.
God speaks directly with Joshua as He did with Moses. In verse 3 He states, “Every place that the sole of your foot will tread upon I have given you, as I said to Moses.” In verse 5 God states, “No man shall be able to stand before you all the days of your life; as I was with Moses, so I will be with you.” God will keep His promises. Using Paul’s words (Rom. 3:4), “Let God be true and every man a liar.” God doesn’t just make promises with His people, but he also makes commands for them. Let’s look at a couple.
In verse 2 the first command is to arise and to cross the Jordan. The second command is a major theme in the book of Joshua: be strong and courageous. The third command God gives to Joshua is to keep the law and to not turn to the right or left. This command is extended. God says that the book of the law should not leave their lips and they should be meditating on it day and night. God concludes this section of commands by telling Joshua to not be afraid nor dismayed. Let’s look at some promises that aid Joshua in keeping these commands.
God tells Joshua that He will never leave him nor forsake him. This is the key promise. Joshua could go and conquer in Canaan because God would not leave them nor forsake them. Joshua could be strong and courageous because God would not leave them nor forsake them. Joshua could keep the law while having a relationship with God because he knew God would not leave them nor forsake them. God tells Joshua that his obedience to the law would lead him to success. God’s law has a good and wise design, so it should not surprise us to hear that if you keep his commands things will go well for you. This is not to say that there were not times when Joshua faced suffering and pain, but there is a blessing when you keep God’s commands. And no, don’t think this is prosperity gospel. You must do some gymnastics to interpret this as a promise for financial blessing.
As you read through the Bible yourself, look for specific promises that you should take hold of and commands you need to keep! Be strong and courageous!