BASIC SCRIPTURE 29 November 2023
BASIC SCRIPTURE: JOSHUA 1: 1 – 9
1 Now after the death of Moses the servant of the Lord it came to pass, that the Lord spake unto Joshua the son of Nun, Moses’ minister, saying,
2 Moses my servant is dead; now therefore arise, go over this Jordan, thou, and all this people, unto the land which I do give to them, even to the children of Israel.
3 Every place that the sole of your foot shall tread upon, that have I given unto you, as I said unto Moses.
4 From the wilderness and this Lebanon even unto the great river, the river Euphrates, all the land of the Hittites, and unto the great sea toward the going down of the sun, shall be your coast.
5 There shall not any man be able to stand before thee all the days of thy life: as I was with Moses, so I will be with thee: I will not fail thee, nor forsake thee.
6 Be strong and of a good courage: for unto this people shalt thou divide for an inheritance the land, which I sware unto their fathers to give them.
7 Only be thou strong and very courageous, that thou mayest observe to do according to all the law, which Moses my servant commanded thee: turn not from it to the right hand or to the left, that thou mayest prosper withersoever thou goest.
8 This book of the law shall not depart out of thy mouth; but thou shalt meditate therein day and night, that thou mayest observe to do according to all that is written therein: for then thou shalt make thy way prosperous, and then thou shalt have good success.
9 Have not I commanded thee? Be strong and of a good courage; be not afraid, neither be thou dismayed: for the Lord thy God is with thee whithersoever thou goest.
FINISH READING: ODM Daily Online 29 November 2023 – MEDITATION MAKES YOU TO OWN THE VERSE FOR WAR!
Joshua 1:1-9 marks the beginning of Joshua’s leadership over the Israelites after the death of Moses. These verses contain God’s commissioning and encouragement to Joshua as he prepares to lead the Israelites into the Promised Land.
Here’s a breakdown of the passage:
- Transition of Leadership: The passage begins with the death of Moses, the servant of the Lord. God speaks to Joshua, Moses’ assistant, preparing him to take charge and lead the Israelites across the Jordan River into the land He promised to their ancestors.
- Assurance of God’s Presence: God reassures Joshua that just as He was with Moses, He would be with Joshua. He promises never to leave nor forsake him.
- Encouragement and Strength: God urges Joshua to be strong and courageous, emphasizing that the Lord would be with him wherever he goes. This encouragement is repeated several times within these verses.
- Adherence to the Law: God instructs Joshua to meditate on the Book of the Law day and night, to observe and follow all that is written in it. This is the key to success and prosperity in his leadership.
- Confidence in God’s Promises: God reaffirms His promise to give the Israelites the land He swore to their ancestors.
Themes within this passage include:
- Courage and Strength: Joshua is repeatedly encouraged to be strong and courageous in his new role. This demonstrates the importance of resilience and bravery in fulfilling God’s purposes.
- God’s Faithfulness: God reaffirms His faithfulness in fulfilling His promises to His people, ensuring Joshua of His continual presence and support.
- The Importance of God’s Word: Joshua is urged to meditate on and obey God’s Word, highlighting the significance of the Scriptures in guiding one’s life.
Prayers inspired by this passage might involve seeking courage and strength in facing new challenges, trusting in God’s faithfulness, a desire to follow His Word diligently, and reliance on His promises in fulfilling our purpose or callings. It’s a powerful reminder that with God’s presence and guidance, we can navigate through transitions and challenges confidently.