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Joshua-23

Obedience and Dedication: A Devotional Study on Joshua 23​

Introduction​

The book of Joshua recounts the story of how the Israelites took possession of the Promised Land after spending forty years in the wilderness. As we delve into Joshua 23, let's explore the important principles of obedience and dedication that Joshua instilled in the Israelites.

Section 1: Joshua's Final Words (Joshua 23:1-3)​

Devotional Thought: In his final address to the people, Joshua's tone shifts from commanding to pleading as he urges the people to obey God's commands. He reminds them of their previous covenant with God, suggesting that their dedication has waned. Today, let's examine our commitment to upholding God's commands.

Reflection Questions:

  • What weakens your commitment to upholding God's commands?
  • How can we grow in dedication to our covenant with God?

Section 2: Remembering the Past (Joshua 23:4-6)​

Devotional Thought: Joshua pleads with the Israelites to remember their past. He reminds them of how God led them out of Egypt, delivered them into the Promised Land, and dealt harshly with the surrounding nations. By remembering the past, Joshua hoped to inculcate fear and reverence in the Israelites, leading them to walk in God's ways. Today, let's ponder on our recollection of the past.

Reflection Questions:

  • How does remembering the past impact our present and future decisions?
  • How can we foster a culture of remembering in our communities?

Section 3: Commission to Cullan and Ephraim (Joshua 23:7-13)​

Devotional Thought: Joshua publicly commission's Cullan and Ephraim, reminding them of their responsibilities in their roles. His further plea to the people was to hold fast to God's commands and not deviate from God's ways. This encourages us to take up our own responsibilities, remembering to honor our obligations to God.

Reflection Questions:

  • How can we be more faithful to our obligations to God?
  • How can we foster a collective sense of responsibility to honor God's commands?

Section 4: Joshua's Final Warning (Joshua 23:14-16)​

Devotional Thought: In his final warning, Joshua charged the people to not be led astray by foreign gods. This final warning emphasizes the importance of staying connected to God and avoiding any distractions that might divert our attention away from Him. Today, let's examine the influences that might divert us away from Him.

Reflection Questions:

  • What foreign gods lead us astray from God today?
  • How can we resist these distractions and remain dedicate to God?

Section 5: Joshua's Final Blessings (Joshua 23:17-24)​

Devotional Thought: With his final blessings, Joshua called on God's mercy and grace to remain with the people, clarifying that He was now old and gray but would soon join his ancestors. The lesson here is the importance of delegation, entrusting faithful men to lead the people after our exits. Today, let's ponder on our preparation for exiting our position of leadership.

Reflection Questions:

  • Who are the faithful men we can entrust to lead after our exits?
  • How can we prepare these men for leadership?

Conclusion:​

As we conclude our devotional journey through Joshua 23, let's remember to remain obedient to God's commands and dedicated to fulfilling our God-given roles. We must remember the past, honor our obligations, and resist any distractions that would lead us away from Him. Most importantly, let's foster a sense of responsibility within our communities, delegating faithfully to future leaders as we approach the end of our tenure. Our dedication and obedience to God's ways will ensure our success and growth, thus manifesting God's plans for us.