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The Bible offers numerous examples of individuals who maintained faith in God despite daunting challenges, one of which is Joshua, the faithful servant and successor to Moses. Joshua’s life, as recounted in the Bible, is filled with episodes that demonstrate his unwavering trust in Jehovah and his obedience to God’s commands. His faith was not merely theoretical or abstract, but one forged in the crucible of experience—from the hard days of slavery in Egypt to the intense pressures of leading a nation of millions into the Promised Land. As we explore what Joshua remembered, we can uncover rich lessons for our Christian walk today. Through Joshua’s experiences, Christians can learn how to cultivate faith, persevere through trials, and lead lives of courage and strength, all while relying on Jehovah’s promises.

From Slave to Commander

Joshua’s early life would have been shaped by the oppressive conditions of slavery in Egypt. The Bible, while not providing explicit details of Joshua’s life during that period, does tell us of the general harshness faced by the Israelites. Exodus 1:13-14 tells us that “the Egyptians ruthlessly made the people of Israel work as slaves.” The memory of those years of hardship, where the Israelites groaned under the heavy yoke of Pharaoh, would have left an indelible impression on Joshua. He knew firsthand the bitterness of bondage and thus the sweetness of deliverance, which doubtless contributed to his unshakable faith in Jehovah’s promises.

Joshua’s role in organizing the escape of the Hebrews from Egypt is suggested by his later role as a leader in Israel. He may have demonstrated administrative skills that made him a natural choice for Moses to appoint as commander when the Amalekites attacked Israel in the wilderness (Exodus 17:8-9). His ability to lead, coupled with his faith in Jehovah’s protection, set the stage for his leadership later in life. As the Scriptures recount, Joshua successfully led the defense against Amalek. What made Joshua remarkable in this event was not just his military strategy, but his deep trust in God’s involvement. He knew that the outcome of the battle was not dependent on his prowess but on Jehovah’s power. Exodus 17:11 states, “Whenever Moses held up his hand, Israel prevailed, and whenever he lowered his hand, Amalek prevailed.” Joshua, even in the heat of battle, would have been aware that ultimate victory came from God.

This event would become a milestone in Joshua’s spiritual journey. Jehovah commanded Moses to memorialize the event and instruct Joshua about the eventual destruction of Amalek (Exodus 17:14). The memory of this divine victory likely stayed with Joshua for the rest of his life, reinforcing his faith that Jehovah’s purposes would always prevail.

As Moses’ Attendant

Joshua’s relationship with Moses was not just that of a commander to his leader; he served as Moses’ personal attendant for approximately 40 years. Numbers 11:28 describes Joshua as “the attendant of Moses from his youth.” This long-standing association with Moses would have given Joshua unique insight into the way Jehovah guided Israel through His chosen prophet.

Joshua’s service as an attendant was not without its privileges. He was present during significant moments in Israel’s history. For example, when Moses ascended Mount Sinai to receive the Law, Joshua accompanied him partway up the mountain (Exodus 24:13). While Moses was in the cloud of Jehovah’s presence for 40 days and 40 nights, Joshua faithfully waited. This prolonged period of waiting and anticipation could have tested his patience and faith, but Joshua remained loyal, demonstrating his deep commitment to both Moses and Jehovah.

Another important instance of Joshua’s devotion occurred after the incident with the golden calf. While Moses spoke with Jehovah face-to-face at the tent of meeting, Joshua “would not depart from the tent” (Exodus 33:11). This suggests a level of spiritual maturity and responsibility. Perhaps Joshua’s presence at the tent served as a reminder to the Israelites of the sanctity of Jehovah’s worship and the seriousness of entering into His presence.

Joshua’s years of service under Moses also offered him the invaluable opportunity to learn from one of the greatest leaders in Israel’s history. As Joshua observed Moses, he witnessed how the prophet dealt with the constant complaints, rebellions, and spiritual failings of the people. He saw firsthand how Moses relied on Jehovah for strength, guidance, and wisdom. This close relationship allowed Joshua to develop the spiritual and emotional fortitude that would later sustain him when he became the leader of Israel.

A Spy in Canaan

One of the most defining moments in Joshua’s life came when he was selected as one of the 12 spies sent to scout the land of Canaan. The mission itself was a test of faith for the entire nation, and the report brought back by the spies would determine the course of Israel’s future. While all the spies agreed that the land was fruitful and desirable, only Joshua and Caleb returned with a positive report that encouraged the people to move forward in faith.

Joshua’s faith in Jehovah’s promises stood in stark contrast to the fear exhibited by the other spies. While ten of them focused on the fortified cities and the strength of the inhabitants, Joshua and Caleb focused on the power of God. Numbers 14:7-9 records Joshua’s words: “The land, which we passed through to spy it out, is an exceedingly good land. If Jehovah delights in us, he will bring us into this land and give it to us… Only do not rebel against Jehovah. And do not fear the people of the land, for they are bread for us. Their protection is removed from them, and Jehovah is with us; do not fear them.”

Joshua’s faith was rooted in his recollection of what Jehovah had already done for Israel. He remembered how Jehovah had humiliated the mighty Egyptians and provided for the Israelites in the wilderness. His courage came from his confidence that Jehovah’s word was trustworthy and that His promises would be fulfilled. Hebrews 11:6 echoes this theme: “Without faith it is impossible to please him, for whoever would draw near to God must believe that he exists and that he rewards those who seek him.”

Joshua’s faith, however, did not shield him from opposition. The people’s lack of faith led them to talk of stoning Joshua and Caleb (Numbers 14:10). In this moment, Joshua demonstrated not only faith but also moral courage. He and Caleb stood firm in their conviction, even when faced with the threat of violence. For Christians today, Joshua’s example is a reminder that standing up for what is right may not always be easy or popular, but loyalty to Jehovah and His principles is paramount.

It was during this mission that Joshua’s name was changed from Hoshea, which means “Salvation,” to Jehoshua (Joshua), meaning “Jehovah Is Salvation.” This name change, instituted by Moses, was symbolic of the role Joshua would play in leading Israel into the Promised Land. As one commentator notes, the addition of Jehovah’s name to Joshua’s reflected the truth that the conquest of Canaan would not be by human effort alone but through divine power.

The Wilderness Years and Moses’ Succession

After the failure of the people to trust in Jehovah’s promises, Israel was condemned to wander in the wilderness for 40 years until the faithless generation died off. During this time, Joshua remained a faithful servant, quietly enduring the consequences of a rebellion in which he had no part. There is little recorded of Joshua’s actions during these years, but his silent perseverance is telling. Unlike the rebellious Israelites, Joshua waited patiently for the fulfillment of Jehovah’s promises. His unwavering faith, even during these difficult years, must have deepened his spiritual resolve.

As the 40 years drew to a close and Moses neared the end of his life, Jehovah instructed Moses to appoint Joshua as his successor. This appointment was no surprise. Jehovah described Joshua as “a man in whom is the spirit” (Numbers 27:18). Joshua’s years of faithful service had prepared him for the enormous task of leading Israel into Canaan.

Moses publicly endorsed Joshua in front of the entire assembly of Israel. This public commission was important for establishing Joshua’s authority in the eyes of the people. As Moses laid his hands on Joshua, he charged him to be “strong and courageous” (Deuteronomy 31:7). This charge was not merely a wish but a divine command. Jehovah Himself reiterated this command to Joshua after Moses’ death, saying, “Be strong and courageous… Do not be frightened, and do not be dismayed, for Jehovah your God is with you wherever you go” (Joshua 1:9). The repeated emphasis on strength and courage reveals that the task ahead would be filled with challenges, but Joshua’s confidence lay not in his abilities but in Jehovah’s presence.

Leading Israel into the Promised Land

Joshua’s leadership of Israel began with an immediate test of faith: crossing the Jordan River at flood stage. This challenge, however, was met with the same confidence in Jehovah that had characterized Joshua’s life. When Jehovah commanded Joshua to “get up, cross this Jordan” (Joshua 1:2), he did so without hesitation. The miraculous parting of the Jordan River, reminiscent of the crossing of the Red Sea, served as a public confirmation of Joshua’s divine appointment. As the priests carrying the Ark of the Covenant stepped into the water, the river stopped flowing, allowing the entire nation to cross on dry ground (Joshua 3:15-17).

Following the crossing of the Jordan, Joshua led Israel in a series of military campaigns to subdue the inhabitants of Canaan. The first major conquest was Jericho, a fortified city that was strategically important for the Israelites’ campaign. Joshua’s strategy for taking Jericho was given directly by Jehovah, and it involved no conventional warfare. Instead, Joshua followed Jehovah’s instructions to march around the city once a day for six days and seven times on the seventh day. When the priests blew their trumpets and the people shouted, the walls of Jericho collapsed, allowing the Israelites to take the city (Joshua 6:1-21).

This victory, like the battle against Amalek years earlier, was a clear demonstration that Jehovah was fighting for Israel. Joshua’s role was to lead the people in obedience to Jehovah’s commands, and as long as they did so, success was assured.

Throughout his leadership, Joshua demonstrated an unwavering commitment to the covenant relationship between Jehovah and Israel. Near the end of his life, after the land had been apportioned among the tribes and Israel had found rest from its enemies, Joshua gathered the people to renew their covenant with Jehovah. He reminded them of all that Jehovah had done for them and warned them to remain faithful. In his famous speech, Joshua declared, “As for me and my house, we will serve Jehovah” (Joshua 24:15).

Joshua’s life and leadership exemplify what it means to live by faith in Jehovah. His faith was not passive but active, demonstrated through obedience to Jehovah’s commands and trust in His promises. Even when faced with overwhelming odds, Joshua remained confident that Jehovah would fulfill His word.

Lessons for Christians Today

Joshua’s life provides a wealth of lessons for Christians today, particularly in the areas of faith, courage, and endurance. Christians, like Joshua, are called to live by faith in Jehovah’s promises. Hebrews 11:1 defines faith as “the assurance of things hoped for, the conviction of things not seen.” Joshua’s faith was not based on what he could see, but on his trust in Jehovah’s word. This same kind of faith is required of Christians today, as they look forward to the fulfillment of God’s promises regarding the Kingdom of God.

Joshua also demonstrated remarkable courage in the face of opposition. Whether standing up to the faithless spies or leading Israel into battle against formidable enemies, Joshua’s courage came from his confidence in Jehovah’s presence. Christians today are similarly called to stand firm in their faith, even when faced with opposition or persecution. As the apostle Paul wrote, “Be watchful, stand firm in the faith, act like men, be strong” (1 Corinthians 16:13).

Finally, Joshua’s endurance during the 40 years in the wilderness serves as an example for Christians who may be going through difficult or discouraging times. Joshua’s faith did not waver during those long years of waiting. Instead, he remained steadfast, trusting that Jehovah would fulfill His promises in His own time. This kind of endurance is vital for Christians today, who are called to “run with endurance the race that is set before us” (Hebrews 12:1).

In conclusion, Joshua’s life serves as a powerful example of what it means to live by faith. His memories of Jehovah’s mighty acts, his experiences as Moses’ attendant, his courage as a leader, and his unwavering trust in Jehovah’s promises all contributed to his success in leading Israel into the Promised Land. For Christians today, Joshua’s story offers valuable lessons in faith, courage, and endurance. By following Joshua’s example and relying on Jehovah’s Word, Christians can face the challenges of life with confidence, knowing that Jehovah is faithful to fulfill His promises.

About the Author

EDWARD D. ANDREWS (AS in Criminal Justice, BS in Religion, MA in Biblical Studies, and MDiv in Theology) is CEO and President of Christian Publishing House. He has authored over 220+ books. In addition, Andrews is the Chief Translator of the Updated American Standard Version (UASV).