Scripture
8 Keep this Book of the Law always on your lips; meditate on it day and night, so that you may be careful to do everything written in it. Then you will be prosperous and successful. 9 Have I not commanded you? Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged, for the Lord your God will be with you wherever you go.”
Reflection
In verse 7 we read how Joshua is commanded to be ‘strong and courageous’ and to ‘be careful to obey all the Law of Moses’. This command (in verse 7) is based on God’s power through His Word. This is a stronger exhortation, indicating that greater strength of character would be required to obey God’s Word faithfully and fully than to win military battles. In order for Israel to be successful and triumphant in the conquest of Canaan, Joshua was to do three things with regard to the Scriptures: (a) The Law was not to depart from his mouth; he was to talk about it (cf. Deut. 6:7); (b) He was to meditate on it day and night, to think about it (cf. Ps. 1:2; 119:97); (c) He was to do everything written in it, to obey its commands fully and to act by it (cf. Ezra 7:10; James 1:22–25).
The same principles is still very relevant to us today, especially with everything that’s going on around us. It’s easy to become immersed and even obsessed with all of the facts about the Corona Virus, and for fear to creep into our thoughts. But instead, don’t let the Law of God depart from your mouth, meditate on it day and night. Let the Word of God transform your thoughts and replace it with fears. And if you feel God is asking you to do something (like reading less news and spend more time in the Word) obey that still small voice.
During this time of unknown, be courageous, keep to God’s Word, and let His Word transform your mind. We have eternal hope in Him
Thoughts for the day
- What does this passage tell you about God or Jesus?
- What does this passage tell you about humanity?
- What do you feel God is telling you through this passage?
- How can you apply this message in an area of your life that needs transformation?
- Is there anyone you think should hear or will benefit from this message? Go and tell them.
Prayer
Stop and ask God to place a nation on your mind and heart. Pray for the people to be blessed by God, the church to shine brightly and for God to be present in that place.
