Topical Encyclopedia IntroductionThe concept of decision-making is a significant theme in the Bible, and the life of Joshua, the successor of Moses, provides a profound example of godly decision-making. Joshua's decisions were pivotal in leading the Israelites into the Promised Land and establishing them as a nation. His life and leadership are chronicled primarily in the Book of Joshua, where his faithfulness and obedience to God's commands are highlighted. Joshua's Early Decisions Joshua first appears in the biblical narrative as a young man serving as Moses' assistant. His early decisions were marked by loyalty and faith. In Exodus 17:9-10, Joshua is chosen by Moses to lead the Israelites in battle against the Amalekites, demonstrating his courage and leadership abilities. His decision to follow Moses' instructions without hesitation set the stage for his future role as a leader. The Decision to Spy Out the Land One of the most critical decisions in Joshua's early life was his participation as one of the twelve spies sent to explore the land of Canaan (Numbers 13). Unlike the majority of the spies, Joshua, along with Caleb, made the decision to trust in God's promise despite the daunting obstacles. Numbers 14:6-9 records Joshua's plea to the Israelites: "The land we passed through and explored is an exceedingly good land. If the LORD delights in us, He will bring us into this land, a land flowing with milk and honey, and He will give it to us." This decision to stand firm in faith, even when faced with opposition, exemplifies his unwavering trust in God. Leadership and the Conquest of Canaan Upon Moses' death, Joshua was appointed as the leader of Israel. His decision to accept this role was rooted in obedience to God's command. In Joshua 1:6-9, God instructs Joshua to be strong and courageous, promising His presence and guidance. Joshua's decision to adhere to God's law and meditate on it day and night (Joshua 1:8) was foundational to his success as a leader. Joshua's leadership is marked by decisive actions in the conquest of Canaan. His decision to follow God's unconventional battle plan at Jericho (Joshua 6) demonstrated his reliance on divine guidance rather than human wisdom. The fall of Jericho was a testament to Joshua's faith and obedience. The Covenant Renewal at Shechem One of Joshua's most significant decisions was the renewal of the covenant at Shechem. In Joshua 24, he gathers the tribes of Israel and recounts God's faithfulness. He challenges the people to make a decision: "But if it is unpleasing in your sight to serve the LORD, then choose for yourselves this day whom you will serve... But as for me and my house, we will serve the LORD" (Joshua 24:15). This decision to publicly declare his allegiance to God and challenge the Israelites to do the same underscores his commitment to leading by example. Conclusion Joshua's life is a testament to the power of godly decision-making. His choices were consistently aligned with God's will, demonstrating faith, courage, and obedience. Through his leadership, the Israelites were able to enter and settle in the Promised Land, fulfilling God's promise to their ancestors. Joshua's decisions continue to serve as an enduring example of faithfulness and dedication to God's purposes. Nave's Topical Index Joshua 24:15,18-24And if it seem evil to you to serve the LORD, choose you this day whom you will serve; whether the gods which your fathers served that were on the other side of the flood, or the gods of the Amorites, in whose land you dwell: but as for me and my house, we will serve the LORD. Nave's Topical Index Library The Great Confession - the Great Commission - the Great ... Book vi The Sermon on the Mount. Letter Xcviii. From the Synod of Chalcedon to Leo. The Formation of the Old Testament Canon Weighed, and Found Wanting Knox and Queen Mary (Continued), 1564-1567 The Charge to the Soldier of the Lord The Symbols of the Republic. God's Sovereignty and the Human Will Resources What does the Bible say about decision-making? | GotQuestions.orgHow should a Christian view the Roe vs. Wade decision? | GotQuestions.org Is loving God an emotion, a feeling, or a decision? | GotQuestions.org Decision: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.com Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus Subtopics Decision: Exhibited in Being on the Lord's Side Decision: Exhibited in Blessedness of Decision: Exhibited in Following God Fully Decision: Exhibited in Keeping the Commandments of God Decision: Exhibited in Loving God Perfectly Decision: Exhibited in Seeking God With the Heart Decision: Exhibited in Serving God Decision: General Scriptures Concerning Decision: Necessary to the Service of God Decision: Opposed to a Divided Service Decision: Opposed to Double-Mindedness Decision: Opposed to Halting Between Two Opinions Decision: Opposed to not Setting the Heart Aright Decision: Opposed to Turning to the Right or Left Valley of Decision: General Scriptures Concerning Related Terms |
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