Joshua 1:10-18 Joshua Assumes Command

The promised land represents a place of rest. God's plan for his people is to lead them into a rest he has prepared for them. For a Christian, the promised rest begins with a relationship with Christ that unfolds into the ultimate rest in the new heavens and new earth. Though Christ has purchased my rest with his work on the cross, it is imperative I understand that there is much to do to advance the kingdom and establish God's rest upon all the earth. Though Christ has won the war, there are many battles to be fought before the full establishment of God's kingdom upon the earth.

As the Israelites prepare to advance into the land, our God summons all of Israel to fight together. He did not allow the Reubenites, Gadites, and the half-tribe of Manasseh to remain behind (though their territory was already conquered). The conquest was an endeavor for the whole nation. Though there are many churches in the world, we cannot forget that we are part of one body of Christ alone. We are all in this together. There should be more cooperation among churches to reach the world.

In order to accomplish the task, it is necessary that each and every brother and sister commit to the task at hand under the leadership God has commissioned. Every church must have strong leadership that counts on the resolute commitment of each member. The task at hand requires no less. It is impossible to set out on a conquest, to advance the kingdom of God in the world, unless we all commit to give our all and pledge our loyalty to the leadership God has established.

I am not in palace yet. I am still at war in the battlefield. Father, help me be a leader committed to establish your kingdom upon the earth. Give me resolve to advance the cause of the Gospel at whatever cost. Bring unity to your people to fight together against ungodliness.