An obedient family Joshua 1:6-7
We have discussed two important keys to possessing territories: “Be strong”, ”Be courageous”. This Family Bible Time Post will focus on another essential key: “Obedience”.
In our anchor passage Joshua 1:7, the Lord instructed Joshua to be strong, courageous and obey. If we want to take territories like Joshua, we ought to be obedient too.
I want to highlight the importance of ongoing obedience, as this was something the Israelites failed to uphold. They did not convey the commandments of the Lord or the wondrous acts of God to succeeding generations.
“When all that generation had been gathered to their fathers, another generation arose after them who did not know the LORD nor the work which He had done for Israel.” Judg 2:10.
What is truly astonishing is how quickly the Israelites forgot God’s acts and His commandments. Whenever a judge who knew, obeyed, and served God arose, the Israelites would win battles and find peace. However, upon the death of the judge, they would revert to their sinful ways.
This post is a call to ensure that you obey God as an individual and also instruct your children to obey God and pass it on. This is a major key to ensure that your generation is established in the land that the Lord gives you for an inheritance (An inheritance or territory may be a physical space or a domain of influence- refer to previous post, “Be strong and Courageous”).
Activity 1: Take some minutes to think about any act of disobedience as a person or as a family and repent before God truly.
Do not pretend to be completely obedient, allow the Holy Spirit to search your hearts. Ps 139:23-24. This is an opportunity for cleansing, renewal of heart and restoration.
What should we obey:
-Commandments in the bible: 2nd Tim 3:16-17
-Specific instructions to each family member or to your family generally. Ps32:8
Remember, the disobedience of one person can lead to punishment for the whole family. For instance, Achan took for himself some of the spoil of war and brought destruction upon the entire congregation Josh 7:1; the Israelites continued to marry from foreigners and these women turned their hearts to idols 1Kg 11:2. They also desired to have a physical image to represent God like other pagan worshippers did for their gods despite God’s commandment against graven images. Judges 17
How does this apply to us today?
-If we fail to obey the instructions attached to the covenant of wealth such as tithing, then we will not receive the blessings God promised. Mal 3:10, Deu 8:18.
-If your child chooses an unbeliever friend, they will learn bad habits, desire ungodly things; and eventually bring corruption into the home 1cor 15:33.
-God commands us to fellowship with Him personally and as a family (Josh 24:15, Jer 29:13) If we fail to serve God wholeheartedly, we will miss direction and guidance. The entire family will suffer for it.
-When disobedience and disrespect thrives in a family, it causes disunity. A home that is not united can not possess territories. Mark 3:25
Refer to previous post on gates and walls.
Activity 2: Discuss examples of people in the bible who obeyed God partially or totally and see what reward they received e.g
Moses Num 20:12
Samson Judges 16:17
Saul 1st Sam 15:15
The three wise men Matt 2:12
Naaman 2nd King 5:10
Key messages:
- Obedience must be prompt, complete and willing.
- It is not enough for parents to be doing what is right, you must ensure your children are instructed to do what is right too.
Prayer:
Father, we ask that you break the yoke of disobedience and rebellion in our lives. Help us to obey all your commandments willingly in Jesus name.
Raising Godly Children 