What other biblical instances show obedience to God's commands like in Joshua 14:5? Our Launching Point: Joshua 14:5 “So the Israelites did as the LORD had commanded Moses, and they divided the land.” A simple sentence, yet it radiates wholehearted submission—God speaks, His people act. Old-Testament Snapshots of Similar Obedience • Genesis 6:22; 7:5 — “Noah did everything precisely as God had commanded him.” He built the ark to the last measurement. • Exodus 12:28 — “The Israelites went and did so; they did just as the LORD had commanded Moses and Aaron.” The first Passover happened because the nation obeyed in detail. • Exodus 39:42-43 — “When Moses saw that they had done all the work just as the LORD had commanded, he blessed them.” The Tabernacle was assembled according to every specification. • Numbers 1:54 — “So the Israelites did everything just as the LORD had commanded Moses.” Even a census became an act of obedience. • Joshua 6:20 — “At the sound of the trumpet, when the people gave a great shout, the wall collapsed.” Marching, shouting, and waiting on God’s timing—Israel followed instructions to the letter. • 2 Kings 23:24-25 — “Neither before nor after Josiah was there a king like him who turned to the LORD with all his heart.” Josiah’s sweeping reforms reflected meticulous adherence to the Book of the Law. Personal Acts of Obedience • Genesis 22:2-3 — Early the next morning, Abraham set out to offer Isaac, trusting God completely. • Joshua 5:8-9 — Joshua circumcised the new generation “just as the LORD had commanded,” renewing covenant faithfulness before entering Canaan. • 1 Kings 17:5 — Elijah “went and did according to the word of the LORD” by hiding at the Kerith Ravine during drought. • Daniel 1:8 — “Daniel resolved that he would not defile himself.” His obedience shaped an entire exile community. New-Testament Echoes • Luke 1:38 — “I am the Lord’s servant,” Mary answered. “May it happen to me according to your word.” • Luke 5:5-6 — “Because You say so, I will let down the nets.” Simon’s tired obedience opened the door to a boat-sinking catch and lifelong discipleship. • John 2:5 — “Do whatever He tells you,” and the servants filled jars with water that became wine. • Acts 1:4; 2:1 — Jesus said, “Do not leave Jerusalem,” and the disciples remained until the Spirit was poured out. • Acts 8:27-30 — At the Spirit’s prompting, Philip “ran up” to the chariot, leading to the Ethiopian’s salvation. Common Threads We Notice • God’s command is clear before obedience is expected. • The response is immediate—delayed obedience isn’t obedience. • Both individuals and communities are accountable. • Blessing follows: preservation in the ark, liberation from Egypt, conquest of Canaan, outpouring at Pentecost. Takeaway for Today Joshua 14:5 reminds us that obedience is never outdated. When God speaks through His Word, the appropriate answer is the same, whether building an ark, dividing a land, or sharing the gospel: “Yes, Lord.” |
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