Today’s Reading, Joshua 16-18
Focal Scripture: Joshua 18:3 “So Joshua asked the Israelites, “How long will you delay going out to take possession of the land that the Lord, the God of your ancestors, gave you?”
I have heard it said on more than one occasion that delayed obedience is still disobedience. This phrase means that when you are asked to do something from the Lord, it needs to be done immediately. No discussion, no debate, no council, just obedience. The only pause we should have is to make sure that we are hearing the Lord’s voice and it lines up with scripture. Why does this matter? Because we as people have a bad habit of talking ourselves out of doing what the Lord has asked of us to do in our lives.
In today’s reading we see the result of disobedience. We are told that Joshua confronts the Israelites and asks them “Why are you delaying in taking the land?” It was already given to them. It was already in their possession. They just had to go get it and put feet to their claim.
To many believers ignore the call of God in their life. I have witnessed individuals be directly told to go do something and instead of being obedient they let their head get in the way. For instance, I know of one young man that was told to quit everything and go to seminary. However, instead of being obedient this individual talked themselves out of attending. They even had other people tell them to slow down and not give up everything to follow the Lords calling. Why is this a problem? Because we are commanded to give it all to follow Jesus. Once you start making excuses it becomes easier and easier.
That is the challenge I have for you today. Do what the Lord asks, as soon as he asks you to do it. This urgency will transform your walk with God. Obedience to the Lord requires you to follow him in a way that is counter cultural. We have evidence of this in the scriptures. The disciples left everything they had, to be obedient. Paul, left his former lifestyle and we are expected to do the same.
Let’s all start being biblical and follow the Lord. No questions asked, no excuses, just passionate obedience. It will require us to leave things behind. It will require us to seem extreme. Thankfully, our obedience is what matters, not other people’s opinions.
Follow God and don’t let others talk you out of what is right and good. Their insecurities and fear can’t be a factor in how you pursue the Lord.
Tomorrow, I plan on reading Joshua 19-21
