Devotionals from my Bible app: Timeless Wisdom (Joshua 1:8)

This Book of the Law shall not depart from your mouth, but you shall meditate in it day and night, that you may observe to do according to all that is written in it. For then you will make your way prosperous, and then you will have good success. Joshua 1:8, NKJV

Back in 2022, I had previously embarked on reading through the Bible in one year and got stuck here in the Book of Joshua. One of the reasons (but by far not the only) that I didn't continue reading through the Bible was due to work ramping up at an incredible rate. Ironically, this happening was a call to live out today's focus verse, and I'm disappointed to say that I did not handle well the thought of being asked to do more than what I believed I was capable of. Even now, in 2024, this is once again being put in front of me, and this time the training wheels are off. I do see the fruit of God's work in me over the last couple years, but there's more room for improvement.

Do not merely listen to the word, and so deceive yourselves. Do what it says. James 1:22, NIV

My wife and I are now in a new season of life for us both. We don't know what life will bring us, but we will have to walk it out regardless.

Timeless Wisdom

After being rescued from Egyptian slavery and wandering around in the wilderness for 40 years, the Hebrew people finally stood at the edge of the land God had promised.

Though their long-time leader, Moses, had just died, God appointed Joshua to take his place. During this transition of authority, God gave Joshua some wise advice:

“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 NIV

The “Book of the Law” refers to the first five books of the Bible—also known as the Torah (in Hebrew) or the Pentateuch (in Greek). Today, we have that and more—66 books of the Bible, including the Old and New Testaments.

God gave the Law to Israel through Moses. These instructions reveal God’s intentions, character, and heart.

And even though God was speaking directly to Joshua at that time, His advice holds timeless wisdom for us today…

Reading, listening to, and thinking deeply about God's story informs and shapes us.

God’s instructions are good, and His commandments are wise. They tell us who God is and who He’s created us to be. They show us where His people have been and where they are going.

When we meditate on His Word, study its contents, and understand its core message—everything changes.

We don’t have to live meaningless lives; we can step into the world purposefully. And even when we face battles, like Joshua did, it’s always best to be on God’s side.


https://bible.com/bible/59/jos.1.8.ESV

Prayer: God, You give us Scripture so that we can know You better. Your Word is not meant to be a list of instructions but a way of life that leads to You. The more time we spend in the bible, the more deeply we know Your character and nature. Thank You for revealing Yourself to us in this way. In Jesus' name, Amen.