How can we apply the obedience shown in Joshua 5:4 to our lives? Setting the Scene Israel stood on Canaan’s doorstep. Before one stone of Jericho fell, God told Joshua to circumcise the new generation—renewing the covenant their fathers had neglected. Joshua obeyed immediately. Key Verse: Joshua 5:4 “Now this is why Joshua circumcised them: All those who came out of Egypt—all the men of war—had died in the wilderness along the way after they had come out of Egypt.” Why Their Obedience Matters • It restored covenant faithfulness (Genesis 17:9–14) • It prepared the nation spiritually before military conquest • It modeled trust in God’s protection—they were physically vulnerable while healing, yet safe in His care • It showed that victory flows from obedience, not human strength (Joshua 6) Applying Joshua’s Example of Obedience Today • Prompt obedience – Act on God’s clear commands without delay (Psalm 119:60; James 1:22). • Complete obedience – Joshua circumcised “all the people” (v. 8). Partial compliance is disobedience (1 Samuel 15:22). • Covenant renewal – Regularly remember Christ’s new-covenant sign—baptism and the Lord’s Supper (Luke 22:19–20; Colossians 2:11-12). • Let God cut away the “flesh” of sin – Yield heart attitudes and habits to the Spirit’s scalpel (Romans 2:29; Galatians 5:24). • Trust God’s timing – Israel paused on the brink of battle to obey first; we, too, must allow God’s schedule to override ours (Proverbs 3:5-6). • Prepare the next generation – Joshua ensured that those born in the wilderness entered Canaan in covenant; invest intentionally in children and new believers (Deuteronomy 6:6-7; 2 Timothy 2:2). • Understand that obedience precedes victory – Jericho’s walls fell only after obedience was settled; expect God’s power on the far side of surrender (John 14:15, 21). Supporting Scriptures • John 14:15 – “If you love Me, you will keep My commandments.” • Romans 12:1 – Present your bodies as a living sacrifice. • Colossians 2:11-12 – Spiritual circumcision and baptism in Christ. • Hebrews 5:9 – Christ is the source of salvation “to all who obey Him.” • James 4:7 – “Submit yourselves therefore to God. Resist the devil, and he will flee from you.” Practical Steps for This Week • Identify one area where you have delayed obedience; act on it today. • Memorize Joshua 5:4 to anchor your resolve. • Schedule an intentional pause—a personal “Gilgal”—to reaffirm your commitment to God’s covenant and let Him search your heart (Psalm 139:23-24). |
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