How can we apply Joshua's response to God's presence in our daily lives? Setting the Scene Joshua and Israel have just crossed the Jordan. On the outskirts of Jericho he encounters “the commander of the LORD’s army.” Scripture records: “ ‘Neither,’ He replied. ‘I have now come as commander of the LORD’s army.’ Then Joshua fell facedown in reverence and asked Him, ‘What does my Lord have to say to His servant?’ ” (Joshua 5:14). Joshua’s instinctive reaction models a posture we can adopt whenever we become aware of God’s presence. Joshua’s Threefold Response • Immediate reverence—he fell facedown. • Clear submission—he addressed the Visitor as “my Lord.” • Eager readiness—“What does my Lord have to say to His servant?” Cultivating Awe in Everyday Moments • Remember Who stands before us. Hebrews 12:28-29 calls us to “worship God acceptably with reverence and awe, for our God is a consuming fire.” • Treat ordinary places as potential “holy ground” (Exodus 3:5). Whether at a desk or in the car, acknowledge that the Lord is near. • Pause physically—bow the head, kneel, or sit quietly—to let outward posture reinforce inward awe. Submitting Our Will • Joshua’s “my Lord” echoes Romans 12:1: “offer your bodies as living sacrifices.” • Surrender plans at the start of each day: – Ask, “Lord, You lead; I’ll follow.” – Lay out schedules, worries, and ambitions before Him. • Trust that true freedom flows from obedience (John 8:31-32). Listening for Direction • Joshua’s next words: “What does my Lord have to say…?” mirror young Samuel’s “Speak, for Your servant is listening” (1 Samuel 3:10). • Make space for Scripture reading and quiet reflection; God still speaks primarily through His written Word. • Stay sensitive throughout the day—prompted to encourage someone, to repent quickly, or to change plans. John 10:27: “My sheep listen to My voice; I know them, and they follow Me.” Practical Daily Rhythms Morning • Begin with a brief bow or kneel, reciting Psalm 95:6. • Read a passage, asking, “Lord, what do You want me to obey today?” Throughout the Day • When a decision arises, silently pray, “What does my Lord have to say to His servant?” • Keep a notepad or phone memo for nudges the Spirit gives. Evening • Review the day, thanking God for moments of obedience, confessing any resistance. • Re-commit tomorrow’s plans to His command. Encouraging Promises • James 4:8: “Draw near to God, and He will draw near to you.” • Psalm 32:8: “I will instruct you and teach you the way you should go; I will give you counsel and watch over you.” These assurances reinforce that when we bow, submit, and listen, the Lord gladly responds. Closing Thoughts Joshua’s facedown posture on Jericho’s plains is not confined to ancient history. By cultivating awe, surrendering our will, and listening attentively, we can live every day under the wise and victorious command of the Lord’s army, assured that He still leads His people into every battle and blessing. |
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