In an age of activism and information it’s easy to commit one of two errors. We can latch onto a cause of the moment in order to feel as though our life counts. At least we’re doing something that matters. Or, overwhelmed by the volume of causes and issues in the world, we retreat from the moment in silent faith.
In the Book of Joshua, we find a striking alternative. God calls all of his people to be boldly courageous, not because of passion about a cause, but devotion to his name. And rather than overwhelm us with his call, he pledges his presence, “the Lord your God will be with you wherever you go” (1:9). How might that promise, if we believe it, change the way we live?
Joshua calls us to a more obedient faith because of a shockingly good God of promise.