Our scripture today is Joshua 23:6 (ESV).
Therefore, be very strong to keep and to do all that is written in the Book of the Law of Moses, turning aside from it neither to the right hand nor to the left
Joshua has reached the end of his mission and as he goes to be with God, he reminds Israel to be faithful. They have accomplished much, but not all that God had for them. Joshua says not to turn to the right nor to the left, which sounds similar to Jesus teaching us about the narrow gate: “For the gate is narrow and the way is hard that leads to life, and those who find it are few” (Matthew 7:14). There have been missteps and backsliding along the way, but the God of Hope is still with us, willing to receive us when we come in honest repentance.
Loving Lord, we are sorry for the times we turn aside from Your will for us. Forgive us and send us to tell the world of Your amazing love. Amen.
