Why is it often hard to trust God for the future even though he has been faithful in the past? Joshua has certainly decided to do that in this chapter. He obeys every direction the Lord gives him, ending with assigning the tribes their allotted pieces of land.

In spite of past victories, we often need to be reassured of God’s presence and power. We have incredibly short memories. Personally, I am convinced that is why I prefer to spend time with senior citizens. After many lessons over their lives, many have learned to trust the Lord. That is not to say that young people do not. Testimony times are one of the best times in any gathering of the faithful. We need to encourage others about God’s faithfulness. What may seem silly to one person may be just the thing others need. Perhaps then we could learn the lesson of obedience and be able to obey before our hair turns white. Our growing faith and testimony are a credit to God and a testament to his purpose, power and promise.

We must obey God if we wish to see his power. This is the test of faith — obedience. Interestingly, the reverse is also true. Those who refuse to obey will have hard, disobedient hearts. Consider verse 20, which tells us that God hardened the Canaanites’ hearts to go to war against Israel. This is hard to swallow for those who think that God will save everyone in the end. 

Challenge: “Go ye therefore, and teach all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Ghost….” (Matthew 28:19).

Lord God, your people long for your presence to be real to us. Open our eyes that we may see. Lord, we also ask that you open our hearts and lips to share what you have taught us with others. 

Cheryl Harris

Extended Scripture: Joshua 11–12