After Moses

Draft, under review

Reflection

The book opens with an ending. Moses, the Lord's servant, is dead (Josh 1:1–2). For forty years Israel had known one leader, and the people had just spent thirty days mourning him (Deut 34:8). Now the work passes to Joshua, Moses' assistant, and a river in flood stands between the people and the land (Josh 3:15).

God's first words to Joshua don't erase the grief. They point him forward. It is time to get up and cross the Jordan (Josh 1:2). Then God gives His reason for courage, which has nothing to do with Joshua's ability. As He was with Moses, so He will be with Joshua. He will not fail him or abandon him (Josh 1:5).

Three times God tells him to be strong and courageous (Josh 1:6, 7, 9). The center of that strength is surprising. It isn't military skill. It is keeping God's word on his lips and in his mind day and night, and doing what it says (Josh 1:7–8). The success God describes is faithfulness to Him, not a guarantee of an easy path. Joshua would still face battles and defeats (Josh 7:1–5).

These were first God's specific words to Joshua at a turning point in Israel's history. But the promise underneath them reaches all of God's people. The New Testament repeats it: God will never leave or forsake us (Heb 13:5–6). If you are standing at the edge of a new season, unsure and maybe grieving what is behind you, the call is the same. Hold on to His word, and go forward with Him (Matt 28:20).

Word study: verified (STEPBible)

chazaq (Hebrew, Strong's H2388): to be strong, to grow firm (Josh 1:9). It is paired with amats (to be courageous, steadfast, H553) in the same verse, as it is in Josh 1:6 and 7.

Cross-reference trail

  1. Deut 31:6-8: Moses passes the same charge to Joshua.
  2. Deut 34:8-9: Mourning Moses, then a new leader.
  3. Ps 1:1-3: Rooted in God's word day and night.
  4. Heb 13:5-6: He will never leave you.
  5. Matt 28:20: With you always.

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Prayer

Lord, You were faithful in the season behind me. Make me strong in Your word, and go with me into what comes next.

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