Today’s Bible reading is Joshua 22 and Galatians 6.
The conquest of Canaan had nearly been completed, inheritances had been allotted to the tribes, and Israel was beginning to enjoy rest.
Two-and-a-half of the twelve tribes had opted to claim land east of the Jordan River, but they hadn’t abandoned their brethren. Before settling, they had fought side-by-side to finish the conquest. Finally, war was coming to an end.
At that time Joshua summoned the Reubenites and the Gadites and the half-tribe of Manasseh… (Josh 22:1)
These soldiers were free to return to their possessions and loved ones. But notice Joshua’s charge to them as they left:
“Only be very careful … to love the LORD your God, and to walk in all his ways and to keep his commandments and to cling to him and to serve him with all your heart and with all your soul.” (Josh 22:5)
That’s advice worth remembering this week.
Be very careful to walk in wisdom. The days are evil. Love God. Walk in all his ways. Keep his commandments. Cling to him. Serve him with all your heart and with all your soul.
If we’re determined to stand strong in the Lord this week, it’s hard to improve on Joshua’s ancient advice.