I like to read Joshua from the perspective of the church today. In the time of the son of Nun, the mission of God’s people was to invade the Promised Land and get rid of all the inhabitants. Today, the mission of God’s people is to go into all the earth, making disciples and being witnesses of Jesus.


With that in mind, all the “be courageous” and “do not be afraid” language takes on new meaning. It’s a reminder to go forward into our mission in faith, not in fear. God promised the Israelites victory, and He promises that to us too when we lean on Him. We may have to go into action, take hold of the victory, fight hard for it.


Joshua’s call to “choose this day whom you will serve” goes out to you and me. Make it a daily reminder; you get the chance to wake up each morning and decide whom you will serve. When we neglect to ask ourselves that question, it’s easy to slip into the idea that today is all about serving ourselves. Be ready to say, “as for me and my household, we will serve the Lord.”