Diligent Devotion: Walking in the Ways of the Lord

The scripture found in Joshua 22:5 resonates deeply with the commitment that God asks of His people: “But take diligent heed to do the commandment and the law, which Moses the servant of the LORD charged you, to love the LORD your God, and to walk in all his ways, and to keep his commandments, and to cleave unto him, and to serve him with all your heart and with all your soul.” (KJV) This verse encapsulates the essence of a life devoted to God—one that is both intentional and heartfelt.

Joshua, having led the Israelites into the Promised Land, emphasized the importance of remaining steadfast in their covenant with God. It is important to note that the commandment and the law herein refers not only to regulations but to the very heart of their relationship with God. The term “diligent heed” indicates an earnest and meticulous approach to obedience—an unwavering commitment to fulfilling God’s word. In a world filled with distractions, how often do we find ourselves neglecting the call to pay close attention to God’s commandments? The invitation to take diligent heed is a reminder of our need to remain focused amidst the chaos of life.

Love is central to obedience. As Joshua reminds the Israelites, the first step in fulfilling God's commandments is to love Him with all our hearts. This love is not a mere feeling but an active choice and a daily commitment. It beckons us to examine how we express our love for God in our daily choices and interactions. Are we prioritizing our relationship with Him above all else? Do our actions reflect a heart that truly loves Him? Loving God means responding to His commands not out of obligation but out of gratitude for His grace and mercy extended toward us.

"To walk in all his ways" is another significant directive given to us in this verse. Walking implies movement and action—activity rooted in faith. It points to a lifestyle characterized by closeness to God, reflecting his character in the way we treat others, make decisions, and carry out our responsibilities. It invites us to cultivate habits that lead us deeper into His presence, such as prayer, studying His word, and fellowship with other believers. The challenge, however, lies in ensuring that our path is continually aligned with His will. How often do we take missteps due to neglecting His ways? Walking requires intention; it requires us to reflect upon our day and examine whether we have walked in alignment with God’s purposes.

The phrase “to keep his commandments” completes the configuration of devotion in this passage. Keeping God’s commandments is often misconstrued as merely following rules; however, it is about maintaining a framework for healthy relationships—both vertical (with God) and horizontal (with others). Each commandment reveals a part of God’s heart and, when honored, edifies our souls. This commitment also involves remaining accountable within community; we are encouraged to support each other in this endeavor, striving toward a collective goal of godliness.

To "cleave unto him" signifies a close and personal attachment where we find our identity and strength. The imagery evokes the relationship between a husband and wife, underscoring fidelity. In our daily lives, do we cling to God during trials or seek comfort elsewhere? This closeness is the foundation of unwavering faith—a faith that holds onto God in good times and bad. In keeping God at the center of our lives, we ultimately prepare ourselves to serve Him wholeheartedly.

In conclusion, serving God with all your heart and soul canvasses the entirety of our being—emotionally, spiritually, and intellectually. It implies a surrendering of our whole selves for His purpose and glory. Such service requires intentional active involvement in God’s mission on earth, enabling us to impact the lives of those around us and glorify God through our actions.

As you reflect on Joshua 22:5, consider your relationship with God: are you taking diligent heed to His commandments? How can you deepen your love for Him and strengthen your walk in all His ways? May your heart find fulfillment in serving Him with the wholeness of your being.

Artwork for Joshua 22:5

Joshua 22:5 - "But take diligent heed to do the commandment and the law, which Moses the servant of the LORD charged you, to love the LORD your God, and to walk in all his ways, and to keep his commandments, and to cleave unto him, and to serve him with all your heart and with all your soul."

"But take diligent heed to do the commandment and the law, which Moses the servant of the LORD charged you, to love the LORD your God, and to walk in all his ways, and to keep his commandments, and to cleave unto him, and to serve him with all your heart and with all your soul." - Joshua 22:5

Joshua 22:1 - "Then Joshua called the Reubenites, and the Gadites, and the half tribe of Manasseh,"

Joshua 22:6 - "So Joshua blessed them, and sent them away: and they went unto their tents."

Joshua 7:22 - "¶ So Joshua sent messengers, and they ran unto the tent; and, behold, it was hid in his tent, and the silver under it."

Joshua 15:22 - "And Kinah, and Dimonah, and Adadah,"

Joshua 10:22 - "Then said Joshua, Open the mouth of the cave, and bring out those five kings unto me out of the cave."

Joshua 18:22 - "And Beth-arabah, and Zemaraim, and Beth-el,"

Joshua 5:3 - "And Joshua made him sharp knives, and circumcised the children of Israel at the hill of the foreskins."

Rubenites buyilding alter in Joshua 22

"Then Joshua called the Reubenites, and the Gadites, and the half tribe of Manasseh," - Joshua 22:1

Joshua 24:22 - "And Joshua said unto the people, Ye are witnesses against yourselves that ye have chosen you the LORD, to serve him. And they said, We are witnesses."

Joshua 5:13

Joshua 3:5 - "And Joshua said unto the people, Sanctify yourselves: for to morrow the LORD will do wonders among you."

Joshua 12:22 - "The king of Kedesh, one; the king of Jokneam of Carmel, one;"

Joshua 5:15 - "And the captain of the LORD'S host said unto Joshua, Loose thy shoe from off thy foot; for the place whereon thou standest is holy. And Joshua did so."

"And Kinah, and Dimonah, and Adadah," - Joshua 15:22

Joshua 5:2 - "¶ At that time the LORD said unto Joshua, Make thee sharp knives, and circumcise again the children of Israel the second time."

Joshua 21:22 - "And Kibzaim with her suburbs, and Beth-horon with her suburbs; four cities."

Joshua 22:22 - "The LORD God of gods, the LORD God of gods, he knoweth, and Israel he shall know; if it be in rebellion, or if in transgression against the LORD, (save us not this day,)"

Joshua 22:7 - "¶ Now to the one half of the tribe of Manasseh Moses had given possession in Bashan: but unto the other half thereof gave Joshua among their brethren on this side Jordan westward. And when Joshua sent them away also unto their tents, then he blessed them,"

"So Joshua blessed them, and sent them away: and they went unto their tents." - Joshua 22:6

Joshua 5:7 - "And their children, whom he raised up in their stead, them Joshua circumcised: for they were uncircumcised, because they had not circumcised them by the way."

Rubenites building alter of "immense size" in Joshua 22

Joshua 19:5 - "And Ziklag, and Beth-marcaboth, and Hazar-susah,"

Joshua 6:22 - "But Joshua had said unto the two men that had spied out the country, Go into the harlot's house, and bring out thence the woman, and all that she hath, as ye sware unto her."

Joshua 9:22 - "¶ And Joshua called for them, and he spake unto them, saying, Wherefore have ye beguiled us, saying, We are very far from you; when ye dwell among us?"

Joshua 11:22 - "There was none of the Anakims left in the land of the children of Israel: only in Gaza, in Gath, and in Ashdod, there remained."

"And Beth-arabah, and Zemaraim, and Beth-el," - Joshua 18:22

Joshua 22:21 - "¶ Then the children of Reuben and the children of Gad and the half tribe of Manasseh answered, and said unto the heads of the thousands of Israel,"