"Be very firm, then, to keep and do all that is written in the book of the law of Moses, so that you may not turn aside from it to the right hand or to the left, so that you will not associate with these nations, these which remain among you, or mention the name of their gods, or make anyone swear by them, or serve them, or bow down to them. But you are to cling to the Lord your God, as you have done to this day." -Joshua 23.6-8
Joshua is old and is preparing his final words for Israel. When Moses delivered a similar message Israel was preparing to enter the end and take it. Now they have possession of the land and rest from war. But even though their circumstances have drastically changed for the better, Joshua gives a very similar introduction as Moses did.
Joshua tells the people to be firm and do all that the law says. They are not to turn aside from it, or associate with the nations that still remain in the land. They are to continue to cling to God as they have. Joshua does not want the people to wander from God. As another leader is preparing to step out of leadership he is passing on the most vital instructions he has.
Men, what instructions have you passed on? What sort of example are you setting so that when the time comes to pass on instructions people will heed them? Joshua had set an example for the people of obedience to God, just as Moses had, and he is instruction them to follow that example after he is gone.
The most important thing is faithfulness and obedience to God. This is the emphasis of Joshua's final instructions.
Let us live in a way that permits us to give final instructions. Let us offer final instructions that give the most vital information.
"Iron sharpens iron, so one man sharpens another."
To God alone be the Glory!
Strength and Honor
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