Lists

April 16, 2023-Lists

Read and reflect on Joshua 23. Joshua is getting old and ready to pass into eternity with the Lord soon. He takes the time to list some reminders for the people, especially the leadership of his people. The entire chapter is a list of reminders about following God and the blessings that flow from obedience vs. the warnings of God’s wrath and judgement for not following or disobedience. Review closely verses 3-5, 9-11, and 14-15. These verses list the goodness:

·       God fought for them

·       They received their inherited lands

·       One man could rout a thousand because God does the fighting

·       Not one promise of God failed

·       Every promise has been fulfilled

Then comes the list of warnings from verses 6-8, 12-13, 15-16:

·       Do not serve other gods

·       Do not associate in any worshipful way with other nations who do not follow God

·       Others will become snares, traps, whips, and thorns to you if you ally with them spiritually

·       God’s anger will burn against them if they violate His covenant

·       They will perish from the good land God gave them

God has clearly stated the implications of obedience vs. disobedience throughout the entire Bible. The Apostle Paul also creates a list in Philippians to help the followers of Jesus focus on obedience and the results that can be cultivated.

“Finally, brothers and sisters, whatever is true, whatever is noble, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is admirable-if anything is excellent or praiseworthy-think about such things. Whatever you have learned or received or heard from me or seen in me-put it into practice. And the God of peace will be with you” (Philippians 4:8-9).

Are you focusing on the only one who able to give you obedience? Jesus came so that following God in obedience is possible. Focus on Jesus and the lists that are worth pursuing.

Blessings,

Ellen