Strong and Courageous: A Study in JoshuaSample

What does it say?

The Lord told Joshua to circumcise the Israelite men. Afterward, Israel celebrated Passover. As the people ate the produce of the land, the manna stopped coming. 

What does it mean?

God required the generation of Israelites born and raised in the wilderness to be identified with the covenant He had established. As this generation of Israelites prepared to claim the Promised Land, they renewed their covenant with God by circumcising the males and observing Passover. God wanted those who crossed the Jordan to begin their lives in the Promised Land with a fresh commitment to the covenant given by God to their forefathers. God had sustained them with manna for 40 years, but it ceased as soon as God allowed them to eat from the abundant produce of Canaan. 

How should I respond?

Significant life events are the perfect time to examine our relationship with Christ. Any change means leaving some things behind and looking forward to new opportunities to serve the Lord. What change is on your horizon – marriage, retirement, a new job, or a move to a new city? Reflect on how God has prepared and sustained you for each transition. How is He providing in different ways now? Resolve to renew your commitment to the Lord and start this new part of your life with a fresh perspective.