Mighty nation

Today is the second part of Joshua’s final address. Joshua spoke to the Israelites, the source of their ability. (1) No one stood before the Israelites, for it was the Lord God Himself who drove out the nations of the land of Canaan. (2) Joshua said, “One of your men puts to flight a thousand.” The Israelites comprised a mighty nation, for the Lord Himself fought for the Israelites, just as He had promised. (3) Therefore, they must be diligent in loving their God the Lord. We, too, can become a mighty nation. The key to this is to be obedient to Christ’s words and love God. God will protect those who love him and treat them specially. Are you seeking God’s protection today?

Principle of owning the land

Next, he spoke to them about the principle of owning the land of Canaan. (1) Israel was given eternal ownership of the land of Canaan through the Abrahamic covenant. This principle remains unchanged even today. (2) However, if the Israelites should become unfaithful, they will be driven out of the land. Though the ownership is everlasting, their lives in the land and their prosperity depend on their faith. (3) If they should intermarry with the pagan nations and fall into idolatry, those nations will be “a snare and a trap,” “a whip on your sides,” and “thorns in the eyes.” The above principles are applicable even to our lives. We, who believed in Christ, were given the right to become children of God by faith. This right is everlasting. However, if we should become idle and turn from God’s way, the countless blessings given to God’s children will be taken away. Especially important is that the Spirit’s presence also will be taken away. If you have been feeling the lack of Christian love, strength, joy, and or patience, let’s repent earnestly now. Let’s aspire to obey the words of Christ.