Joshua 1:10-18 – Get Ready! Get Set!

Read Joshua 1:10-18

Joshua is not wasting any time, is he? He is readying up the people for the journey. It will start by crossing the Jordan River. I’ve never seen the Jordan River in person, but I’m guessing it’s more than a “trickle” of water. There were certainly no bridges waiting for the people to cross. More recently, river crossings took place by the settlers making their way across the United States in covered wagons.

What were the people feeling? I can only imagine. It wasn’t going to be easy. But roaming around the desert for generations wasn’t easy either. What makes all the difference is when we put our trust in God. When God is the one leading the charge, we are more likely to call upon the courage that assurance gives us.

Three days isn’t a lot of time to get packed and ready for a river excursion! But Joshua was setting the expectation as any good leader will do. Joshua also reminds the two and half tribes of what God had promised them. Rest for some. Group protection for the remaining to earn that rest. These tribes were not going to cross the river but remain on the east side of the Jordan to receive their promised inheritance there.

God knew that all of his people needed to band together to be successful in the Promised Land. God would be beside them every step of the way. Yet, it was important that all tribes join together for the conquering of Canaan. I can imagine the tribe leaders and Joshua had adrenaline flowing as they anticipated the battle.

I loved the unity we see here. It must have been music to Joshua’s ears to hear them say, “We will do whatever you command us, and we will go wherever you send us.” To have the people rallying around in such a fashion would give any leader a sense of confidence. Joshua didn’t need to wonder anymore if he would be capable of leading. The people were also trusting God. That’s really the key to the success of any mission.

What are you getting ready for these days? A trip? A new business deal? A celebration? For the freedom to be able to go where you want without fear?

We are all preparing for our final destination, that is, to be with Jesus. How are you getting ready? While we don’t know when, we probably have longer than three days! That doesn’t mean that we should put it off. How much more success and joy we will have in this life if we are doing the things that put us in alignment with who God created us to be. We belong to God, and our ultimate destination is with him. What our journey looks like to make sure we get there is another thing all together.

Take some time today to think about your mission for God. What he is calling you to be doing to move toward your own promised land?

Let’s pray … Lord, thank you for how you used Joshua’s leadership to bring your people to the Promised Land. Just as they readied themselves for the journey, Lord, help me to be prepared for my journey of faith. Show me how and where you want me to serve. In Jesus’ name. Amen.