(Exodus 17, Numbers 13–14, Joshua 1–24)
1. Summary of Joshua’s Story
- Joshua first appears as a young warrior under Moses, leading Israel in battle (Exodus 17:9).
- He was one of the twelve spies sent to scout Canaan and, along with Caleb, brought back a faithful report (Numbers 14:6-9).
- Because of his trust in God, Joshua survived the wilderness years and was chosen to succeed Moses (Deuteronomy 31:7-8).
- As Israel’s new leader, Joshua led the people across the Jordan River into the Promised Land (Joshua 3:15-17).
- He oversaw the fall of Jericho, the defeat of Ai, and a long campaign of conquest across Canaan (Joshua 6–12).
- Joshua helped divide the land among the twelve tribes and called the people to renew their covenant with God (Joshua 13–24).
- He ended his life by publicly declaring his household’s unwavering commitment to the Lord (Joshua 24:15).
2. How Joshua Points to Jesus
- His name means “The Lord saves”—the same meaning as the name Jesus (Matthew 1:21).
- Joshua led Israel into a promised land—Jesus leads us into eternal rest and salvation (Hebrews 4:8-9).
- Joshua obeyed God fully, no matter how strange the instructions—Jesus obeyed the Father perfectly, even to the cross (John 6:38).
- Joshua offered the people a clear choice—Jesus invites all to follow Him (Joshua 24:15; Matthew 16:24).
- Joshua’s leadership brought earthly victory—Jesus’ leadership brings eternal victory (1 Corinthians 15:57).
3. What God Is Teaching Us Through Joshua’s Life
- God’s promises are true, but we must walk by faith to receive them (Joshua 1:3; 2 Corinthians 5:7).
- Courage doesn’t come from strength—it comes from God’s presence (Joshua 1:9; Isaiah 41:10).
- Victory comes through obedience, not strategy (Joshua 6:20; Proverbs 3:5).
- Hidden sin can block God’s blessing and hurt more than just us (Joshua 7:1; James 5:16).
- Faithfulness is a daily choice, not a one-time moment (Joshua 24:15; Luke 9:23).
4. Reflection Questions
- What step of faith is God asking you to take—even if you can’t see the outcome?
- How do you remind yourself that God is with you when life gets overwhelming?
- Where are you tempted to trust your own plans instead of obeying God’s direction?
- Are there hidden areas in your life that need confession and surrender?
- What does “choosing this day to serve the Lord” look like in your home and habits?
- In what way is your faith moving—actively trusting, listening, and walking forward?
Personal Reflection Challenge:
Each morning this week, read Joshua 1:1–9 out loud.
Ask God to give you the strength to walk boldly, the wisdom to obey immediately, and the courage to trust Him completely—just like He did for Joshua.
Full message: