Joshua gives a good reminder of what a healthy relationship with God looks like. In Joshua 22:5 is it says, “Only be very careful to observe the commandment and the law that Moses the servant of the LORD commanded you, to love the LORD your God, and to walk in all his ways and to keep his commandments and to cling to him and to serve him with all your heart and with all your soul.”

A number of things stood out to me today as I read this chapter. The first thing that caught my attention is the phrase, “with all your heart and soul.” This was a Hebrew formula used to describe the whole person. Therefore, I am to love God with my whole being.

The second thing that hit me is a question, “what does such a love for God look like?” I think we see aspects of this whole life commitment when Joshua says we should walk in his ways, keep his commandments, cling (be true) to him and serve him. This comprehensive picture shows that “Loving God is much more than an affirmation or a feeling; it is obedience, loyalty, and service to God above all else” (Nelson Study Bible).

Father, this is a fresh reminder that my obedience is not obligation or legalism to a code of conduct, but a whole life commitment to make you my number one priority in life and live like it. I need to ask myself, “Am I being true to you?” “Are you the ultimate allegiance of my heart?” Thank you for your love for me and may I grow in my very real and practical love relationship with you.

Following Jesus with you,

Jeff