Cling Tightly!

“Rather, cling tightly to the Lord your God as you have done until now.” Joshua 23:8

Have you ever played the sport “Tug of war” that puts two teams against each other in a test of strength: teams pull on opposite ends of a rope, with the goal being to bring the rope a certain distance in one direction against the force of the opposing team's pull. The team that holds on tightly and doesn’t let go - wins! The Israelites had arrived in Canaan but there was still much to be done, Joshua’s time as the leader was coming to an end but there was still much land to be conquered!  What is so precious to you and worth holding up to tightly? Our number one treasure should be Jesus – for eternal value! Yes, Joshua was focused on this!

He reminded the Israelites of “The Lord’s Covenant” and that which was to be continued even after he had gone.  Joshua encouraged them to follow the Lord wholeheartedly!  As a faithful leader, he declared before them this, “…But for me and my family, we will serve the Lord” Joshua 24:15. Who wouldn’t want to leave such a legacy of courage?

Joshua summoned the people to come and renew their covenant with the Lord.  He reminded them how God was a holy and jealous God and could not stand idol worship. The focus on worship was to be directed to Him alone and nothing else was to be attached or be a substitute. He emphasized the consequences of abandoning God and serving idols.  When the people heard this, they also all declared together “We will serve the Lord” (Joshua 24:21). The key here was love and obedience that involves faith that defies all contradictions! This was meant to be an ongoing declaration for them to live in victory! What a challenge for us today!

Dear Lord, Please teach us to be inspired to believe you and stand courageously against all that comes against the truth. Help us to be ones who leave a legacy of courage for the next generation. Amen

Reflection: When we cling to the past, we miss the future God has for us!  

Go deeper: Allow God into the center of your life even your recreation time.

Meditate on: “Each one of you will put to flight a thousand of the enemy, for the Lord your God fights for you, just as he has promised. Joshua 23:10