Joshua-3
Following God's Lead: A Devotional Study on Joshua 3
Introduction
The book of Joshua recounts the Israelites' conquest of the Promised Land following their exodus from slavery in Egypt. In chapter 3, we follow the Israelites as they find themselves at the banks of the Jordan River, ready to claim a new land. As they stand at this threshold, they encounter an unexpected command from God - to follow His lead. Let's explore this pivotal chapter and the spiritual insights it reveals.
Section 1: Preparation (Joshua 3:1-6)
Devotional Thought: The Israelites prepare for their crossing of the Jordan River by ritually cleansing themselves and camping beside the river. These preliminary steps highlight the importance of spiritual preparation before embarking on our journeys. Today, take time to reflect on how you can spiritually prepare for your next God-given step.
Reflection Questions:
- How do you prepare spiritually before embarking on a new journey?
- Are there areas where you need to refocus your spiritual preparation process?
Section 2: Remembering (Joshua 3:7-8)
Devotional Thought: God commands the Israelites to remember how He dried up the Red Sea, allowing them to cross unharmed. He wants them to remember and trust in His mighty deeds. Let's also reflect on God's previous faithfulness as we prepare to cross new waters.
Reflection Questions:
- How have God's prior faithfulnesses motivated and sustained you on your journey so far?
- Are there areas where you need to increase your recollection of God's former faithfulness?
Section 3: Following (Joshua 3:9-17)
Devotional Thought: God tells the Israelites to follow the ark of the covenant into the river. This was an unusual request given the Jordan's depth. As the Israelites followed in faith, the water piled up before them, supernaturally revealing God's path. Today, let's consider how we can follow God's leading, trusting in His path for us.
Reflection Questions:
- How can you cultivate a faithful following of God's leading?
- Are there areas where you need to rely more on God's leading and less on your own understanding?
Section 4: The Commandments (Joshua 3:18-22)
Devotional Thought: The overspill of the water remains where God's foot rests, a visible reminder of His mighty deeds. This phenomenon reminds us of the importance of living through God's Word, allowing it to guide us into our God-given paths.
Reflection Questions:
- How has God's Word sheltered and guided you in the past?
- Are there areas where you need to allow God's Word to lead you more willingly?
Conclusion:
As we conclude our devotional journey through Joshua 3, let's acknowledge God's faithfulness and prepare to follow His lead. Let's trust in His mighty hand to guide us each step of the way. May we be a people who follow God's Word and leadings, remembering His former works, and listening intently for His voice. Following this path requires faith, but faith is not something to be feared or shied away from - it is a gift from God that empowers us to live courageous, purposeful lives.