In what ways can we prepare ourselves to follow God's directives today? Setting the Scene “Then Joshua commanded the officers of the people:” (Joshua 1:10). Israel stood on the threshold of the Promised Land. God had spoken; now Joshua relayed the orders. The people’s readiness—or lack of it—would determine whether they stepped forward in faith or stalled in fear. Their example still guides how we prepare to follow God’s directives today. Immediate Obedience: A Heart Posture • Joshua did not delay. He heard and moved. • Jesus echoes this spirit: “If you love Me, you will keep My commandments” (John 14:15). • Preparation starts with an unquestioning yes in the heart before specific details are even known. Practical Ways We Prepare Today 1. Saturate Yourself in Scripture • “Your word is a lamp to my feet and a light to my path” (Psalm 119:105). • Regular, systematic reading puts God’s marching orders on the tip of your tongue. 2. Cultivate Consistent Prayer • “Pray without ceasing” (1 Thessalonians 5:17). • Ongoing conversation tunes spiritual ears to hear fresh directives. 3. Practice Daily Surrender • “Present your bodies as a living sacrifice” (Romans 12:1). • Consciously yield plans, schedules, and desires each morning. 4. Walk in Holiness • “Be holy, because I am holy” (1 Peter 1:16). • Sin dulls sensitivity; confession keeps the line clear. 5. Stay Mission-Ready Through Service • “Be doers of the word, and not hearers only” (James 1:22). • Small acts of obedience train spiritual reflexes for larger assignments. Communal Readiness • Joshua addressed officers who would mobilize tribes; obedience was communal. • “Let us consider how to spur one another on to love and good deeds, not neglecting to meet together” (Hebrews 10:24-25). • Engage in corporate worship, accountability groups, and mutual encouragement so the whole body moves in step. Remember the Promise Behind the Command • God had already assured Joshua, “I will be with you wherever you go” (Joshua 1:9). • Confidence in God’s presence fuels courage to obey. Today, Christ’s promise stands: “Surely I am with you always, to the very end of the age” (Matthew 28:20). Putting It All Together Read daily, pray continually, surrender fully, live holy, serve actively, and stay connected to fellow believers. When God speaks, you will be found—like Joshua—ready to receive the order and lead others forward. |
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