Joshua 5:10-15 First Passover in Canaan

The Israelites enjoyed God's supernatural provision during their journey. Now that they are to enter the promised land, they will continue to enjoy the provision of God, but through the land he promised them. God is still the provider, but his provision is now through the promise. All my needs are taken care of by my God. He provides for my every need all the time.

Passover is the Jewish celebration of their freedom from slavery. On Passover, all those who placed the blood on their doorposts were spared from death - they were passed over by the angel of death. If I am to be effective in the conquest of the promised land, the establishment of God's kingdom upon the earth, I must live in obedience through Baptism and Communion. Baptism is my initiation rite into the Body of Christ as a born again believer. Communion is my Passover. In Communion, I remember the sacrifice of Christ that freed me from my bondage to sin and gave me new life. It also feeds my soul in the grace of God to sustain me in the battle.

The conquest of the promised land, the establishment of God's kingdom upon earth is my mission in life. Baptism and Communion prepare me for it, but I can't forget that I am not alone in this endeavor. Joshua encountered the commander of the army of the Lord who confirmed his leadership in the conquest. The commander of the army of the Lord is with me by my side. It is a reminder that it is not by might, nor by power, but by the Spirit of the Lord. Intimate communion with my commander is a requirement to engage in this battle.

The conquest of the promised land is not for anyone, but only for those who have embraced the kingdom of God through Baptism and Communion and have committed their lives to an intimate communion with the Commander of the army of the Lord.

Lord, I want to be a good soldier in this conquest. You meet my every need. Fill me with your Spirit to remain in intimate communion with you as I wage battle every day. May I rely upon your grace as I march forward taking by storm the strongholds of ungodliness in this world.