Joshua 1:14a Your wives, your children and your livestock may stay in the land that Moses gave you east of the Jordan…
The theme of these verses seems to be that once you have gone through a difficult time, you need to go back and help others instead of settling into the comfort of your new status. I see this motif played out in so many ways and on so many levels, and it can be such a beautiful gift of hope.
Joshua 1:14b …but all your fighting men, ready for battle, must cross over ahead of your fellow Israelites. You are to help them…
Recently on social media, a friend shared his struggles with addiction. He had someone who helped him, and he wanted to share his story with others in the hopes that someone might read it and realize they are ready for help. And every day in these daily reflections, I try to be open and honest about my struggles, my mistakes, my missteps, my precious, loving Savior, in the hopes that others who are struggling will realize they are not alone and that there is hope. That is the theme of these verses. Help others through.
Joshua 1:15a …until the Lord gives them rest, as he has done for you, and until they too have taken possession of the land the Lord your God is giving them.
Precious Savior, Thank You for the light of hope. Thank You that we can use all our mess–struggles, mistakes, missteps, everything–to help others who are struggling. Help us, even when it’s difficult, to have the strength to reach out and offer hope. Amen.
Joshua 1:15b … After that, you may go back and occupy your own land, which Moses the servant of the Lord gave you east of the Jordan toward the sunrise.”
Have a blessed day.