Greg Chandler
01/09/17
From days of old, Joshua has been a man of inspiration. In fact, his story was lauded in song during the days of American slavery. The old spiritual, Joshua Fought the Battle of Jericho, states, “I know you have heard about Joshua; he was the son of Nun; he never stopped his work until…until his work was done.” How true! At age 110, Joshua proved to be a man of both physical and spiritual valor as he commanded the people of Israel, “Choose this day whom you will serve, whether the gods your fathers served in the region beyond the River, or the gods of the Amorites in whose land you dwell. But as for me and my house, we will serve the Lord” (Joshua 24:14). His story is more than the makings of a good song; he is a man who God has placed as a spiritual example for the ages.
Starting Early
Joshua proved to be a man of faith from early in life. As a young man, he dedicated himself to the service of his nation’s leader; he was with him in one of the earliest dark episodes of Israel’s history as they abandoned Jehovah for the worship of the Golden Calf. As the two of them descended Mount Sinai and heard the sounds of revelry, it was Joshua who stated, “There is a noise of war in the camp” and it was from his master that he learned of their sin. Though perhaps a bit over zealous at times, his desire was for the nation to show this man of God the respect one in such a position deserved. When he felt his master was rivaled by God allowing some within Israel’s camp to prophesy, he stated, “My lord Moses, stop them” (Numbers 11:28). Moses taught him humility by responding, “Are you jealous for my sake? Would that all the Lord’s people were prophets, that the Lord would put His Spirit on them!” (29). This was an important lesson to learn.
Though little is told about Joshua’s early years, his attention to the matters of God is worth consideration. Instead of participating in his nation’s wickedness, he aligned himself with one of spiritual integrity. Though in need of correction, he was concerned that none exceed their place in God’s scheme. Young Christians of the twenty-first century should take note. While the temptation may be present to “blend in” with the crowd, this man of God proves that strong stands can be taken early in one’s life. He proves how to build a good foundation for a life dedicated to God.
Believing the Impossible
Two recorded episodes of Joshua’s life display the strength of his faith. As his nation reached the doorsteps of Canaan, he was commissioned to accompany eleven other men to spy out the land. While all agreed to its richness, only he and Caleb believed the land would fall to Israel. Speaking their sentiments, Caleb commanded, “Let us go up at once and occupy it, for we are well able to overcome it” (Numbers 13:30). Sadly, the remaining ten spies discouraged the people and led the entire generation, with the exception of Joshua and Caleb, to forfeit their entry into Canaan. These two men of faith stood as lights in the midst of darkness.
After the death of Moses, Joshua assumed Israel’s leadership and led a new generation in battle to take the land. The first battle was against the fortified city of Jericho, with the Lord providing the unconventional strategy of marching around the city to bring about its collapse. If Joshua had doubts, they were never expressed. Taking the Lord at His word, he carried out His commands and “the walls came tumbling down.” God’s strength was in full display as the opening volley of warfare was fired.
Though far removed from Joshua and Jericho, Christians are also called upon to believe what, to many, appears to be the impossible. Accepting that Jesus Christ left Heaven, lived on earth, died for man’s sins, rose from the dead, and ascended back into Heaven is not the stuff of normal fare. Like Joshua, Christians must believe in the “God of the impossible” and never doubt the work He can do.
Changing A Wrong Direction
Only one negative account is given concerning faithful Joshua. Because of Achan’s sin, God allowed the Israelites to suffer defeat in their attempt to take the city of Ai. Besides failing to consult God before beginning the battle, Joshua bemoaned the outcome, stating, “Alas, O Lord God, why have you brought this people over the Jordan at all, to give us into the hands of the Amorites, to destroy us? Would that we had been content to dwell beyond the Jordan […] and what will you do for your great name?” (Joshua 7:7-9). Sounding akin to the murmuring Israelites of the past generation, Joshua seemed to place blame on God for the disaster. To this, the Lord said, “Get up! Why have you fallen on your face? Israel has sinned. […] Therefore the people of Israel cannot stand before their enemies” (10-11a). Joshua obeyed. There was no backpedaling or excuse; he realized his faulty assumption and got on with the work assigned to him.
It is easy to read situations in an entirely wrong light. Like Joshua, assumptions can be made about actions that cast a poor light on God. Those who study the life of this good man can learn the danger of assumption, especially in relation to God. If one has fallen into such error, Joshua also demonstrates how to leave mistakes behind and to carry out the assigned work of God.
Finishing Strong
A study of the book bearing his name reveals how a 110 year old Joshua could review the past with contentment and look confidently toward the future. Using the power of his godly influence, he challenged his people to remain strong in their faith and fully understand the consequence of rejecting God.
Joshua’s challenge extends to this very day. As he stated to his people, so he states to a modern generation, “Choose this day whom you will serve.” May each take the words of this wise man to heart and use his life as an encouragement to pursue faithful living. May each also make the bold proclamation, “As for me and my house, we will serve the Lord.”