Joshua 1:1-9 - After the death of Moses the servant of the Lord, the Lord said to Joshua the son of Nun, Moses' assistant, “Moses my servant is dead. Now therefore arise, go over this Jordan, you and all this people, into the land that I am giving to them, to the people of Israel. Every place that the sole of your foot will tread upon I have given to you, just as I promised to Moses. From the wilderness and this Lebanon as far as the great river, the river Euphrates, all the land of the Hittites to the Great Sea toward the going down of the sun shall be your territory. No man shall be able to stand before you all the days of your life. Just as I was with Moses, so I will be with you. I will not leave you or forsake you. Be strong and courageous, for you shall cause this people to inherit the land that I swore to their fathers to give them. Only be strong and very courageous, being careful to do according to all the law that Moses my servant commanded you. Do not turn from it to the right hand or to the left, that you may have good success wherever you go. This Book of the Law shall not depart from your mouth, but you shall meditate on it day and night, so that you may be careful to do according to all that is written in it. For then you will make your way prosperous, and then you will have good success. Have I not commanded you? Be strong and courageous. Do not be frightened, and do not be dismayed, for the Lord your God is with you wherever you go.”

In Joshua chapter 1, God commissions Joshua to lead the Israelites into the Promised Land after the death of Moses. God encourages Joshua to be strong and courageous, and promises to be with him as he was with Moses. God instructs Joshua to meditate on the Book of the Law day and night, and to carefully follow all that is written in it. If Joshua does this, God assures him that he will be prosperous and successful. This chapter demonstrates God's faithfulness in providing the Israelites a leader to take them into the land He had promised. It also shows God's commitment to His people, as He promises to continue to guide and strengthen them as they move forward.

This passage reminds us that God is always faithful, even when our human leaders pass on. Joshua must have been anxious about filling Moses' shoes, but God reassured him of His presence and provision. When we face transitions, we can be comforted knowing God never changes. His purposes stand firm. Joshua could boldly obey God's command to enter the Promised Land because he trusted in God's character and promises. Similarly, we can boldly follow where God leads, even when the path looks daunting. As we meditate on God's Word, it will strengthen and guide us. God may not call us to conquer fortified cities like Joshua, but He does call each of us to a unique mission. We can have confidence that as we carefully follow Him, He will make our way prosperous. Though the road has twists and turns, God ultimately leads His people into their promised inheritance.

Father God, thank You for Your unwavering love and faithfulness. When everything around us seems uncertain, You remain steadfast. Give us courage to follow Your lead, even when the path You call us to seems difficult or scary. Remind us of Your presence and power. Help us meditate on Your Word day and night, trusting that You will guide our steps. Show us any areas of disobedience in our lives, and give us willing hearts to follow You wholeheartedly. May our lives be marked by obedience to Your Word and submission to Your purpose. Amen.