In this sermon, Pastor Allen Victor, Calvary Chapel West Jacksonville, delved into the book of Joshua, specifically chapter 1, to discover essential principles that guide us on our journey to possessing the abundant life. The narrative begins with the reminder that “Moses, my servant,” has passed away. From this, we learn that if we aspire to greatness, we must embrace the role of a servant in our lives. The Christian community needs more individuals who come not seeking to be served, but with the sincere desire to serve others, just as Moses did.

Moses, in his passing, symbolizes the Law, which was necessary but insufficient to inherit the Promised Land. It is only after Moses is no more that the Israelites can possess the land, signifying that possessing the abundant life is a matter of faith, not mere works. It underscores that our salvation and the abundant life are gifts of God, received through faith and grace.

The promises in verses 3-4 emphasize that every place the sole of your foot treads upon, God has given to you, as He promised to Moses. This “Promised Land” serves as a symbol for the abundant life available to believers today. As Jesus stated, “I come that you may have life and have it more abundantly.” It represents a spirit-filled life that is accessible to us through faith in Christ.

God’s promise in verse 5, “I will not leave you,” provides comfort and assurance that His presence will be with us as we journey into the Promised Land of our lives. This doesn’t mean we’ll be exempt from problems, but it does mean that God will be with us wherever we go, guiding and sustaining us.

Verses 6-7 encourage us to “be strong and of good courage.” It’s not about self-confidence but God-confidence. We can do all things through Christ who strengthens us. Success is tied to obedience, as verse 8 emphasizes: “Do not depart from the law… meditate… it will give you success.”

In verse 9, we are reminded of God’s command to be strong and courageous, even in times of waiting. Various biblical figures, such as Abraham, Sarah, Joseph, Moses, Joshua, Ruth, David, Elijah, and the Apostles, had to wait for God’s promises to be fulfilled. Waiting on the Lord is an integral part of our journey to the abundant life.

The leadership of Joshua and the submission of the people highlight the importance of walking in faith over fear. They faced a land filled with enemies, but they trusted in God’s guidance.

Moreover, planning and preparation were emphasized as crucial steps before entering the Promised Land. God told them to wait for three days, reinforcing the idea that waiting on the Lord is an essential part of our spiritual journey.

The sermon calls us to apply these lessons in our lives, encouraging us to reflect on what we’ve learned and to consider the reasons why some believers may not be experiencing the abundant life. It challenges us to be patient and trust in God’s timing while pursuing our goals and purposes and to actively support others on their spiritual journey, just as the Reubenites, Gadites, and half the tribe of Manasseh pledged to assist their brethren in their battles.

As we seek to possess the abundant life, let us remember that being a servant, walking in faith, and trusting in God’s promises are key elements of this incredible journey.

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