Typically, key themes in books and film may be deduced by their respective openings and closings. Therein we find setting and theme, problem and resolution, plot and character. The bible is no different; at its beginning and end, we have the presence of God. Our bible opens with four simple, yet profoundly important words: “In the beginning, God…” It ends with a new heaven and earth about which it says, “Behold, the dwelling place of God is with man. He will dwell with them, and they will be his people (Rev. 21:3)”
As Joshua is to face the first test of his leadership God tells him to be, “strong and courageous”. Toward this end God gives a remarkable promise, the promise of his presence: “No man shall be able to stand before you all the days of your life. Just as I was with Moses, so I will be with you. I will not leave you or forsake you. (Joshua 1:5)” Three remarkable truths about God’s presence present themselves:
1) God’s presence is powerful
His presence is such that no man can thwart the work of God through his servant Joshua.
2) God’s presence is personal
God’s presence is not a mere “force”, external to his people; God is with Joshua just as he was with Moses.
3) God’s presence is permanent
In moments of trial and suffering we naturally want those whom we love to be with us. What comfort this must have been for Joshua to hear, “I will not leave you or forsake you”!
Joshua’s courage was rooted in God: his promises, provision, and presence, a presence that his powerful, personal, and permanent. How precious!!
Something to Praise:
Our bible communicates two remarkable truths about God: he is both transcendent and immanent. In the very next chapter Rahab says, “the Lord your God, he is God in the heavens above and on the earth beneath. (Josh 2:11)”In his transcendence, he stands above us. He is above in his attributes, his power, his perspective – where would we stop, such is his glory next to us. In short he is creator we are creation. However, this Sovereign Creator God is also immanent: he is Immanuel (God with us, Matt 1:23); and the one who will “never leave nor forsake us” (Deut. 31:6; Heb. 13:5)!