https://odb.org/2024/01/05/crossroads
I have written in these pages before quoting Joshua’s example, the exhortation given by the LORD for Joshua to lead the new generation of Israelites (the first generation had already died in desert) into the Promised Land (that was promised by God to Abraham and his descendants). God exhorted Joshua to be strong and courageous, for He will be with him wherever he goes. The LORD promised Joshua that He would never leave nor forsake him. God assured Joshua that no one would be able to stand against him all the days of his life! See Joshua 1:5.
But sometimes, we forget that there is the qualifying condition of the promise of God. Preachers also may forget as I have heard sermons on the strong and courageous exhortation without the accompanying condition.
In Joshua 1:7 – the LORD said to Joshua to be strong and courageous. Be careful to obey all the law my servant Moses gave you. Do not turn from it to the left or the right, that you may be successful wherever you go. Keep this Book of Law on your lips,meditate on it day and night so that you must be careful to do everything written in it. Then you will be prosperous and successful.
In the crossroads of life, like the life situation in today’s ODB, we need to seek God to show the way and guide us. Should we stay with our sick spouse or carry on with our work obligations out of town?
At the base of the crossroad posers are still our standing with God. Are we righteous before Him beyond the righteousness of Jesus through His blood? Are we careful to follow and obey the law that is now written in our hearts. When we seek God, is our heart right before Him? Are we for Him or ourselves? Have we confessed our sins and sought His forgiveness? Have we forgiven those who had trespassed against us? Are we holding any grudges against anyone?
There is an accompanying condition to this covenant relationship with God. It was there at the beginning between Abraham and God, and it was there between the Israelites in Kadesh Barnea (the oasis at the wilderness) and God as spoken to and by Moses. It is still there in this new covenant relationship established by Christ for us with the Father. We need to love the LORD our God with all our heart, soul, and mind and love our neighbour as ourselves.
Be careful to follow and obey His law and percepts, and He will be with us wherever we go. No one will be able to stand against us. We will be properous and successful in the things we do for Him.
Ronnie's Thoughts 