How can we apply the principle of following God's commands in our lives today? Context of Joshua 6:6 “So Joshua son of Nun summoned the priests and said to them, ‘Take up the ark of the covenant, and have seven priests carry seven trumpets of rams’ horns in front of the ark of the LORD.’” (Joshua 6:6) Jericho’s walls will soon crumble, but first comes a simple, clear command. God speaks; Joshua acts; the people follow. No debate, no delay—just obedience rooted in trust. Key Observations About Obedience • Immediate response: Joshua moves as soon as he hears. • Complete response: He relays every detail exactly, not trimming or adding. • Communal response: Obedience involves leaders and people; everyone has a role. • Faith-filled response: Marching around walls seems odd, yet they trust the God who gave the plan. Why God’s Commands Matter Today • They reveal His heart and will (Psalm 119:34). • They protect us from self–destructive choices (Proverbs 3:5-8). • They position us for God’s blessing and effectiveness (John 15:10-11). • They display love for Christ to a watching world (John 14:15, 21). Practical Ways to Follow God’s Commands 1. Know the Word • Schedule daily Scripture intake—read, listen, or memorize. • Use a reliable translation and dig for context, just as Joshua listened carefully before moving. 2. Trust the Author • When a command feels counter-cultural—honesty, purity, forgiveness—remember Jericho: God’s wisdom outruns human logic. 3. Act Promptly • Replace “I’ll get to it” with “Lord, I’ll do it now.” Small acts of obedience open doors for bigger ones. 4. Obey Completely • Partial obedience (1 Samuel 15:22) is disobedience. Ask: “Have I surrendered every area—finances, relationships, speech?” 5. Invite Community • Joshua involved priests and soldiers; we need churches and friends who spur us on (Hebrews 10:24-25). 6. Persist Even When Results Delay • Israel marched six days without visible change. Keep following God’s word when nothing seems to move. 7. Celebrate God’s Faithfulness • When obedience bears fruit, give glory to Him; it strengthens future trust. Supporting Scriptures • Deuteronomy 28:1-2 – Blessing tied to diligent obedience. • Psalm 119:105 – The Word guides each step. • James 1:22 – “Be doers of the word, and not hearers only.” • 1 John 5:3 – God’s commands are not burdensome. Takeaway God still knocks down walls, and He still does it through people who take Him at His word. Like Joshua, we listen, trust, and step out—confident that every command is both true and good. |
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