10/03/2020 - FOLLOW THE COMMAND

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For Joshua did not draw back the hand that held out his javelin until he had destroyed all who lived in Ai. Joshua 8:26

Many people ignore what God says and become guilty of their defeat. Orders must be received in full and executed as revealed. You see, the little things hurt us, because even though we understand what we should do, sometimes we don’t accomplish the mission. It is good to examine ourselves accordingly.

After the divine plan revealed to Joshua was followed, the Lord gave him one more task: to extend the spear toward the city of Ai, because it would be given to him. In the course of the fight Joshua did not withdraw his hand holding the spear. Obedience to what we are told is all we need to receive the blessing.

In the previous combat against that city, the people of Israel were defeated because they prevaricated – they did not do what God had commanded. We cannot agree or what we think is best without being authorized to do so. The Lord knows everything, so do His ordinances. Do not play with that!

In this battle, Joshua had to persevere with the weapon extended – the same as Moses did with his hands in the fight against Amalek. About 500 years later, Saul disregarded the Most High, sparing that same kingdom, and received the sentence that he would lose the throne. Be careful never to miss your appointment; otherwise you will not be taken advantage of for anything else. Be faithful unto death, or perish! (Pr 13:13)

The rebellious and impenitent person thinks he can do something small and will not be  affected at all, but is mistaken. Today we have the institute of forgiveness improved, and because of the grace dispensed it is enough to repent of the error and confess it to obtain divine forgiveness (1 John 1:9). The Lord’s commands are for our good. Listen to the heavenly Father!

Daniel said we must go all the way (Dan. 12:13), for the Almighty does not give the  Spirit by measure (John 3:34) or change his orientations (Ps 89:34; Mal. 3: 6). So don’t let the enemy impatient you by changing your attitude. God must be the Lord of our life; Without Him, we can do nothing. Felt something from God, go all the way. Now, He will never use any mistake or carelessness to bring us happiness.

While Ai was not totally destroyed, Joshua did not shrink his hand. So should our actions be until we gain victory over evil, or until Jesus returns to take us to Heaven. With God, we are successful. Every divine counsel is an act of mercy, so don’t dismiss it for nothing!

In Christ, with love,

R. R. Soares