How can we show reverence like Joshua did in Joshua 5:15 today? The Moment of Holy Reverence “ ‘Take off your sandals, for the place where you are standing is holy.’ And Joshua did so.” (Joshua 5:15) The Commander of the LORD’s army—an appearance of the pre-incarnate Christ—calls Joshua to respond physically and immediately to God’s holiness. Joshua obeys without hesitation, demonstrating deep, tangible reverence. What Joshua’s Act Signified • Recognition that God’s presence makes ordinary ground sacred • Humble submission without debate or delay • A physical posture that matched an inward awe (Psalm 95:6) • Readiness to listen and obey whatever command followed (1 Samuel 3:9-10) Practical Ways to Show Reverence Today • Cultivate a Worshipful Posture – Kneel, lift hands, or stand in silence during personal or corporate worship. – Remember Romans 12:1: “Offer your bodies as a living sacrifice, holy and pleasing to God.” • Guard Holy Time – Set aside regular, unhurried moments for Scripture reading and prayer (Psalm 46:10). – Treat the Lord’s Day as distinct—planning around gathered worship rather than fitting it in. • Honor God’s Word Physically and Mentally – Open the Bible expectantly, as Israel stood when Ezra read the Law (Nehemiah 8:5). – Read aloud, underline, or journal to engage heart, mind, and body. • Purify Space When Possible – Remove distractions—silence devices, clear clutter—signaling that you are on “holy ground.” – Play Scripture or hymns in the home, setting an atmosphere of reverence (Colossians 3:16). • Obey Promptly and Completely – Act on convictions the Spirit brings while reading Scripture (James 1:22). – Follow through even in small matters; Joshua’s sandal removal preceded Jericho’s walls falling. • Speak God’s Name with Weight – Refuse casual or flippant use of “God” or “Lord” (Exodus 20:7). – Let conversations about Him be sincere and honoring. • Revere God’s Presence in Others – Serve believers as Christ’s body (Matthew 25:40). – Show respect to all people, made in His image (Genesis 1:27). • Practice Confession and Repentance – Regularly acknowledge sin, trusting 1 John 1:9. – Keep short accounts so nothing dulls sensitivity to His holiness. Summary of a Reverent Heart Joshua removed his sandals because he believed God was truly there. Following his example today means living every moment convinced of God’s real, holy presence—letting that belief shape posture, schedule, speech, obedience, and treatment of others. |
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