Preparing to Possess the Promise - A Bible Study on Joshua 1:11
Partnering with God in Pursuit of His Promises
Welcome to this Bible study on Joshua 1:11. In this passage, Joshua instructs the Israelites to prepare provisions as they are about to cross the Jordan and possess the land promised to them by God. Let's delve into the significance of this command and its application to our lives today.
Opening Prayer
Heavenly Father, as we study Joshua 1:11, may Your Word come alive in our hearts. Help us understand the importance of preparation as we pursue the promises You have given us. Guide us in our journey of faith. In Jesus' name, we pray. Amen.
Scripture Reading
Joshua 1:11 (NIV)
"Prepare provisions for yourselves, for within three days you are to cross this Jordan, to go in to possess the land which the Lord your God is giving you to possess."
Sermon Excerpt
I can't think about preparing for a campout without thinking of one of my old Scoutmasters when I was a kid. Roy Wilson was a WWII veteran who was probably just days away from being deployed to X-Day, the Invasion of Japan. He said many times that Japan's surrender probably saved his life. Roy then used his life to build into the youth of my hometown for many, many years.
I'm not sure if the words "crusty", "old", and "fart" are allowed to be used in a sermon at church... but when describing Roy Wilson, those words are among the many that must be used. He also taught us the Scout Motto of Be Prepared, going to great lengths in asking us questions and watching us pack our gear. Some of my greatest memories are camping with Roy Wilson.
I'm not sure if Joshua was a crusty old fart or not. But the Bible tells us this account in Joshua 1:11: "Prepare provisions for yourselves, for within three days you are to cross this Jordan, to go in to possess the land which the Lord your God is giving you to possess," -- and Joshua wasn't just talking about packing a lunch. He was gearing up his people for one of the biggest moves of their lives. They were about to step into a promise that had been generations in the making.
From Prepper Church: February 11, 2024 (prepperontheplains.blogspot.com)
Exploration and Reflection
Reflect on the following aspects of Joshua 1:11:
- Preparation for Possession - Explore Joshua's command to prepare provisions for the journey ahead. What does this reveal about the importance of readiness when pursuing God's promises?
- Stepping into God's Promise - Consider the significance of crossing the Jordan River to possess the land promised by God. How does this symbolize stepping into God's blessings and fulfilling His plans?
- God's Faithfulness and Human Responsibility - Discuss the partnership between God's faithfulness in fulfilling His promises and human responsibility in preparing and obeying His commands.
- Lessons from Roy Wilson - Reflect on the sermon excerpt about Roy Wilson and his emphasis on being prepared. How does this relate to Joshua's command to the Israelites?
- Application to Our Lives - Consider how we can apply the principles of preparation and obedience to God's commands in our own lives. What promises has God given us, and how can we prepare to see them fulfilled?
Application
Consider how the lessons from Joshua 1:11 and the sermon excerpt can be applied to your life:
- Reflect on the promises God has given you. How can you actively prepare and position yourself to see these promises fulfilled?
- Evaluate areas in your life where you may need to be more diligent in preparation and obedience to God's commands.
- Seek wisdom and guidance from God as you make preparations for the future. Trust in His faithfulness to fulfill His promises in His perfect timing.
- Remember the importance of community and mentorship, as exemplified by Roy Wilson, in helping us stay prepared and focused on God's plans.
- Encourage others to be diligent in their preparation and pursuit of God's promises, supporting and uplifting them along the way.
Closing Prayer
Gracious Lord, we thank You for the example of Joshua and the reminder to be prepared as we pursue Your promises. Help us to trust in Your faithfulness and to actively prepare ourselves for the blessings You have in store for us. Guide us as we step forward in faith. In Jesus' name, we pray. Amen.
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