My End of the Deal

SCRIPTURE
"Be very careful to keep the commandments and the law that Moses gave you." (Joshua 22:5)

OBSERVATION
Three tribes (Reuben, Gad, and the 1/2 tribe of Manasseh) wanted to acquire territory on the east side of the Jordan river instead of crossing with the rest of the tribes. They would be allowed on the condition that they would help their brothers conquer the land. The other tribes were settled and here in Joshua, the three tribes were returning to their side of the Jordan to take possession of their territories. Joshua instructs them to live in a way that will maintain God's blessing and keep them walking close to God. He tells them...

• Love the Lord your God
• Walk in his ways
• Obey his commands
• Hold fast to him
• Serve with with all your heart and soul
  

God had given his people rest in their new land. The Bible says he fulfilled all his promises. He delivered on his word. Now, he wants a people who will be loyal, keeping their promises, to him. He does not ask us to be or do something that does not come from his own character. He is a promise maker and Joshua reminds the people not to be promise breakers.

APPLICATION
I've entered into this relationship with God. It is a two way street. Keeping my end of the deal means being faithful to God. He has fulfilled his promises to me in Christ. "For no matter how many promises God has made, they are 'Yes' in Christ." (2 Co. 1:20) I owe him my life and he wants me to reflect his character by keeping my promise of faithfulness to him. I am to, love, walk, obey, hold and serve. These are not just one time actions but are to be hallmarks of my walk with him.

PRAYER
Lord, you have fulfilled your promises in Christ. I want to fulfill my promises to you.