JOSHUA: A FAITH ROOTED IN GOD’S WORD
Joshua 1:1–9, 16–18
There are different levels of stardom in our society regarding actors. I do not tune into the latest entertainment news and could not tell you who the biggest stars in Hollywood are right now, but somewhere along the way, they have been classified A-list, B-list or C-list, with “A” being the most powerful or popular group of stars and so forth.
If the Bible had such lists, Moses, Paul, Abraham and Peter would be on the A-list. Then there are those in Scripture who may not get the same attention as others, but they are just as important in the biblical narrative and provide amazing insight for us to heed and study.
Joshua is one such person. He was a man of great patience, perseverance and perhaps most of all, faith. For years, he followed Moses’ steps and suffered through the wilderness even though he was one of the original spies who knew the Lord was calling them to take the promised land. His disappointment did not deter his dedication to being obedient to God.
Our faith benefits from the example of others. (1–5)
Joshua probably did not realize or fully appreciate while walking in the wilderness that he was learning to be a more excellent and enduring leader by following Moses.
A genuine believer will follow God for an extended period. Too many in our churches become too easily discouraged or frustrated when things do not go the way they had hoped. The truest sign of maturity in the life of a Christian is to see how they respond when they do not get their way. Joshua knew his life and calling were bigger than himself, and his response would influence those he attempted to lead.
Our faith is to be centered in God’s Word. (6–9)
All leaders need to have a strong foundation in their belief system. For those called to lead God’s people, their sure and constant basis for all they attempt to do must be the words of God. A constant reliance on Scripture keeps us grounded and also challenged.
The more we trust and obey God’s Word, the more blessed we are and the closer we will walk with Him. Immersing ourselves in God’s Word guides us in the difficult times and refreshes us in times of need. The measure of our faith is directly tied to the measure of our Bible intake.
Our faith should set an example for others. (16–18)
The culmination of all the events in Joshua’s life led to this moment. Moses was dead, and now it was Joshua’s turn to lead the people. He had earned their respect and their trust. More importantly, he had the calling and blessing of God on his life.
The best leaders in Scripture and still today are those who were made to wait on God’s timetable, not their own. Waiting for God is never time wasted. We do not know how our waiting can be a testimony to others who are watching. If we are impatient, it reveals a lack of faith. Our faith — or lack thereof — is contagious. Is yours worth catching?
I will never be an A-lister in Hollywood, but I hope to make the F-list — for my faith!
By Bobby McKay
Pastor of New Liberty Baptist Church in Morton, Mississippi
