Joshua who led Israelites to possess the Promised Land also claimed his own personal portion from the inheritance; Israelites awarded him his well-deserved entitlement to commemorate God’s faithfulness. Indeed, Joshua had demonstrated remarkable courage throughout his tenure, and even before he assumed his leadership role. As a spy, Joshua joined Caleb in the wilderness to affirm God’s promises and emphasized their capability of possessing the Promised Land. (Other spies refused to exercise their faith). The scripture reported how Joshua was rewarded for his faithfulness,
“When they (Israelites) had made an end of dividing the land as an inheritance according to their borders, the children of Israel gave an inheritance among them to Joshua the son of Nun. According to the word of the Lord they gave him the city which he asked for, Timnath Serah in the mountains of Ephraim; and he built the city and dwelt in it” (Joshua 19:49-50).
Lesson:
God will honor and bless people who go the extra mile for the sake of glorifying his name. Their efforts will not go unrewarded, but they will be compensated for all their activities. Hence, believers are encouraged to stand up for God and defend his interest in whatever capacity they have. Christians should not be complacent with routine services. Also, we should not celebrate any opinions and/or practices that contradict God’s interests. Believers must stand up for God and preach the unbiased and disciplined gospel. We must exercise godly characteristics that will benefit other people and motivate them to draw closer to God. Indeed, God knows how to reward obedient children, and he will reward every faithful effort that we offer to him. God has proven Himself faithful throughout history. He has rewarded people during bible time, and he will still do the same thing again in our days. The same God who honored Joshua and Caleb for their pious efforts will reward every believer who stands up to defend his interest in our present days.
Prayer:
Dear Lord, Please help me to live a dedicated life before you so that I can receive your outstanding benefits. Help me to stand up for righteousness and defend your interest always – even when it is not convenient! Let my life be consistent with biblical principles to honor your name. I know you will surely reward people who faithfully serve you; therefore, I ask you to please reward me! Bless me beyond my imaginations, and let my cup of goodness run over. Let my testimony of your goodness abide from now on, and forevermore! For in the name of Jesus Christ I make my requests. Amen.
