Start of Joshua’s commission
Joshua 1:1~9 “Have I not commanded you? Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged, for the Lord your God will be with you wherever you go.” (9)
Hymn for scheduled worship: Korean/English Hymnal #84
The Lord of Glory, the Light of Earth (#96 in previous version) Through the exodus of the Israelite nation, Joshua was able to witness the works of God and became a disciple of Moses carrying an imperative task. Especially after the scouts spied out the land of Canaan in the region of Kadesh, he gave a report of faith. Then the day arrived when Moses passed on, and now Joshua was given the commission to conquer the land of Canaan. How was Joshua able to embrace the commission to conquer Canaan?
1. Assurance of a witness
Joshua was a witness who had clearly experienced the evidence of the exodus. God had promised Joshua to give him every land that he set his foot upon. The reason why God emphasized the need to be bold and courageous was for Joshua to inscribe this word of evidence within him in regards to the commission conquering Canaan. People who posses evidence are not swayed by their surrounding nor are they deceived by the words of others. When I hold on to the Word of God and meditate, I will obtain the faith that Joshua had.
2. Assurance of answers
The moment Joshua garnered the assurance of the Word and began with it in hand, he received the answer of the Jordan River parting. When the Israelites followed the Word of God to walk around the Wall of Jericho for seven days following the Ark of the Covenant, the wall completely crumbled. When Joshua held on to the Word and proceeded, he received the unprecedented, never-to-be-repeated answers. God answers the witness who holds on to the Word.
3. New answers
When Joshua and the Israelites began to receive answers, the countries around Canaan trembled in fear. The Amorite army and the seven kings of Canaan were diminished in the presence of God’s powerful Word. When we hold on to the Word of God, the forces of darkness undoubtedly flee. When the Word is inscribed within my heart and mind to the degree in which it leads my life, I will be victorious in everything through the spiritual strength that I gain.
- The results of your life depend on what is inscribed within your heart. We must always hold on to the Word (1 Peter 1:23). Throughout the day, choose the optimal time to meditate upon the Word. Immanuel Church Sunday Worship 2nd Service / 2012.1.1