I finished reading the book of Joshua today, and a few things stuck out to me. One is in chapter 22, where the Israelite leaders are reminding the tribes on the other side of the Jordan River that when Achan sinned, others died for his sin too. They're concerned that if those tribes are unfaithful to God, then God will not be with the entire nation. This is confirmation that my actions affect many, and God doesn't see individuals as isolated or unconnected. We are a community, we are a family, we are responsible for one another, and as in this case it's important that we warn one another of the consequences of turning away from God. That's part of our responsibility to one another.
Another thing I noticed, beyond the consequences of disobedience, was the result of obedience. In chapter 23, Joshua reminds Israel that God has been fighting for them as they've followed Him. They have overcome seemingly insurmountable odds. When I see things stacking up against me in life, I need to make certain that I'm sticking close to God, because His is the power to overcome.
Finally, in chapter 24, Joshua reminds the people of all that God has done for them. God has given them everything they have, and they have been abundantly blessed. Then he gives them a choice that seems like a no-brainer: choose between the God who powerfully fought for them, and blessed them with everything they have, loves them and wants to keep blessing them, or the gods who couldn't protect the people of that land from God and the Israelites... tough choice, right? Hmm... omnipotent, actively working God, or impotent, do-nothing gods? Obviously they chose God in that moment. Reminders of what God has done are important, wonderful things.
I love what Joshua says in verse 15. This godly man cuts through all the red tape, and before they have a chance to deliberate, he lets them know his decision is already made. He didn't base his choice on the popular vote. Basically, he said, "Whatever choice this nation makes, I personally choose God over conformity. You may follow other so-called gods, but I've experienced the real God too much to believe in any other." What a powerful statement! It's kind of funny, but as I was writing this post, my mom seemingly randomly began singing the verse I was thinking of: "But as for me and my household, we will serve the Lord."
I'm so glad that God is real, and powerful, and loving, and in fact all of the good things that I myself desire to be. Whatever anyone else says or does, I choose to seek the answers for my life from Him, rather than go to the so-called wisdom of the world. My life revolves around God for the simple reason that He is life, and He is my life. He is my God, and there can be no other.
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