Friday 07 September 2018

Psalm: Psalm 134

Background

Hindsight is a great thing. The ability to step back and recount all that has happened enables God’s people to recognise that God did all that was promised. Joshua leads the people in a sort of testimony evening where he details all that God has delivered for them, and they respond with an enthusiastic ‘amen’. In the midst of the journey it wasn’t quite so straightforward. The people got things wrong, they disobeyed God, they cheated, they stole and doubted. And paid a high price for all of this failure. But they have come through the struggle and can recognise God’s hand on them.

Joshua puts a challenge to the people. He testifies on behalf of the community, and then more personally to declare that he and his family are fully committed to following God, no matter whatever may still lie ahead. Joshua offers the community the choice to follow God or go off on their own. And when they respond positively he reminds them of the cost and that they can still walk away. A superficial response isn’t useful. It needs to be with full understanding of the depth required. But the people are now sure. They have experienced and recognised God’s power, faithfulness and mercy. They know the cost of discipleship, and the cost of a life lived without a full relationship with God. They are committed. 

To Ponder

• Are we fully consecrated to God? Or do we still need a further step of commitment?
• How do we respond when bad things happen to good people?
• How easy do we find it to forgive others and restore them to relationship and fellowship?