Wednesday 26 March 2008

Background

When Moses died, after leading the Israelites for many years,the baton was passed on to Joshua. Here we see him preparing tolead the people in an invasion. The country that they are to enter,having crossed the river Jordan, is already inhabited. Common sensedictates that these people are not going to hand over theirterritory on a plate.

Joshua had already made some preparations (chapter 2). He sentspies into the city of Jericho who brought back informationobtained from their own observations and from Rahab, theprostitute. From these two sources Joshua learns that he has thepsychological advantage - it seems the people of Jericho havealready heard of the wonders performed by the god of theIsraelites. Now he prepares to lead the people to victory.

How would you feel if you were part of this company? Will thenatives cause trouble? Will there be a battle? Are youscared?

Look at what happens. Before the Israelites get into position theyare told that the ark of the covenant will be carried out beforethem. This ark contains the stone tablets with the ten commandmentswritten on them - it is said to be the seat of God. In other words,God will go ahead of them. They can therefore haveconfidence.

Once the company have started moving, God's help continues. As theyreach the Jordan the water from upstream stops flowing allowing theIsraelites to pass through. Does this ring any bells?

Part of preparing to move forward with God involves rememberingthat God led the Israelites in times past - and God goes before ustoo.

To Ponder

How can we know that we are going to where Godwants us to be? Are there signs that will show us that God goesahead of us?

What new act of service might God be trying toprepare you for?

What things about God do you need to remember inorder to prepare to do what God wants you to do next?