Sunday: God Commissions Joshua: Joshua 1:1-9
As one filled with the Holy Spirit, Joshua had been commissioned as Moses’ successor. God was now calling him to lead His people into the land of promise. Joshua is a type of Jesus Christ in that he led God’s people into the promised land and to victory over their enemies. (Numbers 27:18-23; Deuteronomy 34:9; Hebrews 4:1, 6-8)
Monday: God Says Be Strong: Joshua 1:10-18
“Be strong!” is much more than an admonition, for God’s commandments are God’s enablements. God’s foundational promise to Joshua is likewise God’s commitment to all believers in the struggles of their faith. God’s abiding presence with us is now a reality through His Son and the gift of the Holy Spirit. (Matthew 28:20; Hebrews 13:5-6; Matthew 1:23; Luke 24:49)
Tuesday: Rahab and the Spies: Joshua 2:1-24
Rahab was a sinful woman from a pagan background who recognized the God of Israel as the true God of heaven and earth. She abandoned Canaan’s gods, in faith joined with Israel and its God, and eventually became an ancestor of the Messiah. Rahab’s salvation illustrates that even while God is in the process of judgment, He accepts men from every nation who fear Him and do what is right. (Hebrews 11:31; James 2:25; Matthew 1:5-6; Acts 10:35)
Wednesday: Preparing to Cross the Jordan: Joshua 3:1-8
Before crossing the Jordan river, the people must be consecrated. God will not act powerfully on behalf of His people if they are not inwardly clean and aligned with His will. Before we ask God to perform signs and wonders in our midst, we must first make sure our hearts are pure and our desires guided by His Holy Spirit. (Acts 2:38; Exodus 19:10, 14-15)
Thursday: Crossing the Jordan: Joshua 3:9-18
The waters of the Jordan were parted to experientially demonstrate God’s power. The priests had to get their feet wet before the nation could cross over, and that took faith. Your faith can encourage others in their walk with God. (Matthew 14:23-33; 2 Corinthians 5:7)
Friday: Monument of Stones: Joshua 4:1-24
The monument of stones on the bank of the Jordan, as well as the stones in the middle of the river, were to remind the people that the old life was buried, and they should walk in newness of life. (Romans 6:4; Colossians 3:1)
Saturday: Encounter at Gilgal: Joshua 5:1-12
The new generation had not received the mark of the covenant. Circumcision symbolizes putting off what belongs to the sinful flesh and devoting the heart wholly to the Lord. The nation had experienced this collectively in crossing the Jordan, but it had to be made personal. (Romans 8:13; Colossians 2:11)