THERE ARE THREE SIMPLE THINGS you need to succeed in life: faith in God, know your enemy and have a burning desire to succeed.
Joshua had these three things.
After the Lord spoke with Moses face to face, and he returned to the camp, Joshua—his aide remained in the tent—he stayed in God's presence. (Exodus 33:11)
He obeyed the rules of God, and when the time came, he took on responsibilities.
For many believers, we have obeyed God, its time to take responsibilities from Him.
The Narrative
THE FIRST TIME, the scriptures talked elaborately about him was when the twelve spies were sent to scout the land of Canaan.
Ten of the spies did not believe that they could possess the Promised land, but Caleb and Joshua believed God.
And Caleb said, "We should go up and take possession of the land, for we can certainly do it." (Numbers 13:30)
Caleb and Joshua knew the soul of the nation was at stake—doubt contended with faith.
People have enough doubts already! If you do not believe God's Word, do not go around spreading doubts.
People have enough doubts already
The ten spies knew the promise of God, but the realities didn't make much meaning to them because they feared the people of Canaan.
They did not know that 'fear is a reaction, but courage is a decision'—Winston Churchill.
To have victory, the ten spies needed to believe God and change their behaviour. Their lives became a radical departure from faith in God.
Faith in God
JOSHUA HAD FAITHFULLY served. And after the death of Moses, God told him to lead Israel.
God knew they were big shoes to fill, so, he encouraged him.
He said, "Keep this Book of the Law always on your lips; meditate on it day and night, so that you may be careful to do everything written in it. Then you will be prosperous and successful. (Joshua 1:8)
God taught him where to find faith and prosperity. He also promised to go with him.
God has promised you the same thing. He has given you His Spirit. (Luke 11:13)
You must get to the point where you know that 'your anxiety does not empty tomorrow of its sorrows, but only empties today of its strength' – C. H. Spurgeon.
He wants you to be anxious for nothing but with prayers, supplication and thanksgiving, you can make your request known to Him. (Philippians 4:6-7)
If you're going to be victorious, you must have faith in God.
Know Your Enemy
THE PEOPLE OF GIBEON had deceived Israel into signing a peace treaty with them.
When five other nations heard of the accord, they attacked Gibeon. And the Gibeonites called for help.
Joshua did not take the conservative view. He responded to their call with the mind of God. (Joshua 10:6)
It wasn't easy for him, but he put principles above personality. He went after the five kings and defeated them.
Like Joshua, God wants you to always do the right thing—the integrity of the righteous guides him. (Proverbs 11:3)
The Word of God is a lamp unto your feet and a light unto your path. (Psalm 119:105) It makes you see the enemy that comes against you.
When Jesus was tempted, he said, "It is written." (Matthew 4:10) You will overcome the enemy through the Word of God.
Have a Burning Desire to Succeed
JOSHUA'S OBEDIENCE TO GOD was, in fact, a plan to succeed and protect himself.
God's command to him was to get him into conflicts and conquer many lands. They were difficult.
Although you do not have enemies to fight like Joshua, the Christian walk is not an easy one. You must count the cost.
Joshua's burning desire to succeed through obedience to God, also made him enemies.
There was a confederation of kings who wanted him dead. (Joshua 10:24)
Jesus said, "If the world hates you, keep in mind that it hated me first." (John 15:18)
Every inch of the way, Joshua needed courage. You also will require courage. Satan would contend with you to stop you.
The good news is that Jesus has overcome, and you can. (John 16:33)
BRINGING IT TOGETHER
JOSHUA WAS A GREAT LEADER—he got the people to do great things.
He had faith in God, he knew his enemies and had a burning desire to succeed.
He obeyed the rules and took up duties, you must also be obedient and take up responsibilities in Him.