Joshua: Leading Wherever You AreSample

Like the first generation of Israelites who weren’t allowed into the Promised Land, so many of us are so busy continually searching for the next thing that will make us happy that we miss the point of it all. In the wilderness, the Israelites couldn’t stop focusing on their immediate surroundings—they remained stuck inwardly, and ultimately stuck physically. That’s why this second generation needed to remember two crucial things as they now stood in the Promised Land: walk slowly and go back to your foundation.

Like this new generation, you may be stepping into new territory that you know is a blessing from God. But just because He called you forward doesn’t mean you’re quite ready for what’s unfolding around you.

After the Israelites had spent so many years of wandering around in the desert, their energy and excitement must have been palpable. But God tells them to press pause and pay attention to two things of even greater priority and significance: reestablishing the covenant of circumcision (Joshua 5:2-9) and celebrating the Passover (Joshua 5:10-12). The Israelites needed to be reminded that they were God’s people first and foremost, not simply a nation or political presence seeking to procure territory.

As you move forward into new seasons, what would it look like for you to take on a God-first mentality, as the Israelites were called to do? Let’s consider the purpose behind these two rites for some deeper insight.

Your own circumcision (of the heart): how could you reinstitute a covenant relationship with God as you step out into this new season?

Your own Passover: in what way(s) could you outwardly celebrate your freedom from the things that have kept you in bondage?

The first generation of Israelites disobeyed God in a multitude of ways, but at the core, they didn’t love God and didn’t want to follow Him. Instead of committing to Him always, they bounced between worshiping Him and turning to tangible idols. It’s easy to judge them and roll our eyes at the golden calf they created (while Moses was on Mount Sinai receiving the Ten Commandments, no less!). But here’s the thing: We all have our idols. They’re just more disguised or subtle.

As we identify what idols we have smashed, what bondage we have left behind, let’s take the time to remember and celebrate God’s work. We want to be ready, reliant on Him, for whatever lies ahead.