Today’s reading: Joshua 23:1-16; Psalm 63:8
With peace throughout the land and Joshua now well advanced in years, Joshua calls together all the elders, leaders, judges, and officers of Israel to instruct them about following God. He reminds them of how they have seen and experienced God’s goodness, provision, and protection, then charges them to be very careful to follow God’s law wholeheartedly. These instructions are not new to the Israelites. They have received similar reminders numerous times over the years. However, one phrase Joshua uses here (also seen in Joshua 22:5) that they don’t appear to have heard previously is the command to “cling to the LORD your God” (vs. 8).
I like this phrase because of how the word “cling” adds depth to this command by making it more personal, intimate, and intense (see also Psalm 63:8). Because clinging is a common word and something I have experienced in numerous areas of life (as I’m sure you have as well), I have a good understanding of what clinging looks like and what it feels like physically and emotionally. As such, Joshua using this descriptive word “cling” in this context conveys in an especially understandable way how you and I should serve and follow after God.
Take some time today to think about the specific command to “cling to the Lord your God.” Does this description portray your relationship with God? Why or why not? Will you join me in drawing on your understanding of the word “cling” to strengthen your relationship with God moving forward? Tami
Source: Tami’s Blog
