Commission is the act of entrusting, as a charge or duty. The state of being authorized to act, or perform a service. Where there’s a commission, there is an expectation of a function given by an authority. It is incumbent upon the receiver of the commission to perform as intended. Or else the outcome of the duty will not be as it was meant to be, regardless if the commissioned does it with a willing heart, but the wrong way.
Such is the condition of many Christians and their fellowship with God. With a willing heart they abide, but for a wrong undertaking and a mindset, they struggle in the Christian life and living. The degrees of struggle vary, and struggle at times differs.
Christianity by association, and Christianity by Salvation.
We must be affiliated with others that are saved that through affiliation, we are transitioned to Salvation. Thereby becoming a Christian by Salvation, and not only a Christian by association. Although Salvation is not predicated upon others, for the heart that desires God will be saved. For whosoever shall call upon the name of the Lord shall be saved. Romans 10:13.
Insight to the study
The exposition of the study of that which was then, may serve as an illustration and an example to the Christian, now. The book of Joshua is a continuation of the history of the Pentateuch. The term which means five, the collection of five books: Genesis, Exodus, Leviticus, Numbers, Deuteronomy, and then the continuation, Joshua. These are also referred to as the Torah, a word indicating to teach. That wish was then, may it serve as a lesson to instruct to the willing hearts, now.
Within the history found in the book of Joshua is the record of Israel crossing the Jordan river into Canaan, after the death of Moses. Herein is a stage of transition, from a stage of association as people of faith, to a long process which would ultimately result into Christianity by Salvation. The book is named after the principle character, Joshua. Through his fellowship and walk with God, the supreme of all, let us now come with open hearts that we may learn to walk the journey wherewith we must walk in life and living, for prosperity.
The promise, the condition of the promise and blessings
As Joshua faces transition, he was given the promise of blessing by God, moreover, he was given the condition for the blessings. To this we read:
Only be thou strong and very courageous, that you may observe to do according to all the Law, which Moses My Servant commanded you: turn not from it to the right hand or to the left, that you may prosper whithersoever you go. Joshua 1:7
When the Human mind anticipates a change, instinctively he or she perceives that it is in the best interest to push forward. As the mind perceives, the individual will must empower the individual to victory. Nevertheless, wanting to do the right thing without the rightful instruction, does not guarantee the best result. In such incident, strength and courage becomes the focus while abruptly bringing an end to the full instructions given, as it was given to Joshua.
Only be thou strong and very courageous.
Notice, however, how the command continues. Be strong to do what, overcome the enemy or opposition? No, but be strong to observe the way of the Lord. Remember the battle of the Christian life is spiritual. Consequently, our strength, and our courage is not the struggle against that which we ought not to do, but the observing of God's will in our life that all things may happen in its time according to His will. To this we read again:
Only be thou strong and very courageous, that thou mayest observe to do according to all the law or the teaching.
The key to observing the ways of the Lord
Constant connection with our Bible.
Verse 8. This book of the Law shall not depart out of your mouth.
The idea of the terminology used here is not only for the daily reading of the Bible, but that which proceed out of our mouths, represents who we are. Therefore, let our observation and the reading of the Word shows through us in our lives and our living.
This book of the law shall not depart out of your mouth; but you shall meditate therein day and night, that you may observe to do according to all that is written therein: for then you shalt make your way prosperous, and then you shalt have good success. Joshua 1:8
The condition of the promise and blessings
This book of the law shall not depart out of your mouth; but you shall meditate therein day and night, that you may observe to do according to all that is written therein: for then you shall make your way prosperous, and then you shall have good success.
Joshua 1:8
Observe, there is nowhere in the condition for the blessing did the Lord command Joshua to be strong as He did previously.
The reason for such is the strength spoken of here is not the believer’s will power to overcome opposition through a continuing struggle, but the courage to let go of our will and fasten and bind ourselves to God’s will. Thus, we read in John 15:7 If you remain in Me, and My Words remain in you, whatever you desire you will ask, and it shall happen to you.
So then, let not our struggle be to overcome, from whatsoever it may be, bondage, uncontrollable temper, sins of the flesh, fear, or the likes. Let the believer be courageous and strong to observe the ways of God by abiding in Him by faith. Looking to Jesus alone, instead of looking at the many problems, ultimately that which we look at continually, it is all we shall see eventually.
Having gained a better understanding of that which we ought to do, once again like a good Father and instructor, the Lord again calls the believer's attention away from the obstacles, to focus on Him.
Joshua 1:9
Have not I commanded you? Be strong and of a good courage; be not afraid, neither be thou dismayed: for the Lord your God is with thee whithersoever thou go.
Considering He is willing to be with us, let us desire to be with Him, at all times.
God bless you.
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🎨PSW·3✒©