And it came to pass, when Joshua was by Jericho, that he lifted his eyes and looked, and behold a Man stood opposite him with His sword drawn in His hand. And Joshua went to Him and said to Him, “Are you for us or for our adversaries?”
–Joshua 5:13 NKJV
This story in Joshua 5 has three points that reflect our humanity, and provide worthy goals for us as a people, and a church.
- Joshua was scouting the land. As leader of Israel and the army, he was not huddled in a tent. He was out surveying the challenge ahead with his own eyes. Joshua made the effort and took the first step(s).
- Joshua did not fear the Man, for he knew God was on his side. Nevertheless, he asked a question based on human perspective, and was pointedly reminded that there is a heavenly realm. Joshua asks then listens.
- Immediately upon recognizing the divinity of the messenger, Joshua falls to his knees, and bows to the authority of God the Father. Furthermore, he removes his sandal when asked, in yet another act of immediate obedience and recognition of holiness. Joshua is immediately and completely obedient.
You can learn from Joshua’s example and see a clear path to success and destiny in this verse: know that God is on your side; take the first step; ask and listen; be completely obedient.
Prayer Focus
- Seek God’s direction in your life, then step out in faith and listen for guidance in Scripture. Be obedient to that call.
- Meditate and savor the lessons in the Bible and ask God to reveal direction and purpose in the examples there.
Dan Richards
Dan is a loving husband, active father, and corporate pilot living in the Sarasota area. Involvements at church include the parking and media teams. Writing is a passion, and a focus during the down times inherent to the travel profession.
Latest posts by Dan Richards (see all)
- Laying Future Foundations - September 6, 2017
- Deposit into People’s Lives - August 10, 2017
- Success if Focused on God - July 6, 2017
