FOLLOW THE TRAIN OF THOUGHT? – THE LORD GOD IS WITH YOU…WHEN YOU DO ALL THE ABOVE

What the LORD began in verse 6 of Joshua chapter 1, comes to a close in verse 9. What the LORD spoke in verse 6, is same in verse 9 too. The LORD asked Joshua not to be afraid in verse 6. The same is said in verse 9, but is elaborated much more for the purpose of reassurance.
– “9 Have I not commanded you? Be strong and of good courage; do not be afraid, nor be dismayed, for the LORD your God is with you wherever you go.” – Joshua 1:9

The words…
– “…Be strong and of good courage;”
– “…do not be afraid, nor be dismayed,”
…are firmly based on the presence of the LORD, in Joshua’s life and leadership. The LORD encourages Joshua in verse 6, to be strong, and not be overwhelmed by the task on his hand. The reason being – the LORD God Almighty, the Creator of all things, is with him, and it is God, who will enable Joshua to do, what is entrusted to him.
– “for the LORD your God is with you wherever you go.”

God wants His children, the chosen ones, and the disciples, to be of a certain kind – ones who will trust their God completely, and obey Him faithfully. A person who would obey uncompromisingly, unconditionally and ungrudgingly, in the face of the daunting task that is entrusted. C. S. Lewis talks about such a person…
– “We might think that God wanted simply obedience to a set of rules: whereas He really wants people of a particular sort.”

When we, willingly and ungrudgingly obey the LORD, He will take care of us, our needs, and all that concerns us. This in other words, are the blessings, poured out upon us. The promises of God are conditional to our unwavering faith, and unquestioning obedience.  This is for our good, and for our benefit. 

So, how is it going with us? Are we walking in faith and obedience to God? Or, are we merely interested in receiving the blessings, and not keen on doing, what the LORD is asking of us? May the LORD help us to be Christians who will walk in faith and obedience. Even so the LORD help us.