1. In these verses God spoke to Joshua who succeeded Moses as the leader of Israel. 2. As He spoke to Joshua,: a. God gave Joshua his mission b. God instructed Joshua to be strong and courageous c. God instructed Joshua to remain true to His Word d. God assured Joshua that He would always be with him (vs.5, 9). 3. The assurance that God gave to Joshua in vs.5 is also available to Christians (Hebrews 13:5-6). 4. In our lesson we are covering passages that teach us how "we can know that God is with us." Introduction: I. LET US FIRST CONSIDER THE LORD'S EXAMPLE AND TEACHING
A. His example: Jesus knew that the Father was with Him (John 8:29; 16:32). B. His teaching: Jesus said that we can be assured of God's presence if we keep His Words (John 14:23). C. Since we must keep the Lord's Words for the Father to abide with us, . . . II. LET US NEXT CONSIDER INSTRUCTIONS GIVEN IN THE NEW TESTAMENT
A. 2 Corinthians 13:11 1. This verse mentions "the God of love and peace" being with us. 2. To enjoy this blessing we must: a. "be perfect" [made complete] b. "be of good comfort" c. "be of one mind" (Romans 12:16) d. "live in peace" (Romans 12:18). B. Philippians 4:4-9 1. Vs.9 mentions "the God of peace" being with us. 2. To enjoy this blessing,: a. we must practice the teachings of Paul, including: 1) "rejoicing in the Lord always" (vs.4) 2) "practicing moderation [forbearance]" (vs.5) 3) "avoiding anxiety" (vs.6-7) 4) "thinking properly" (vs.8). b. we must follow Paul's example (Acts 16:11-12, 22-25). C. 1 John 1:5-7 1. Vs.7 mentions "having fellowship with God." 2. To enjoy this blessing,: a. we must not "walk in darkness" b. we must "walk in the light." D. 1 John 4:16 1. This verse mentions "God dwelling in us." 2. To enjoy this blessing, we must "dwell in love." Conclusion:
1. God promised to be with Joshua; however, God gave Joshua certain responsibilities to fulfill. 2. God has promised to be with His children today; however, God has also given us certain responsibilities to fulfill. 3. By fulfilling these responsibilities, "we can know that God is with us." 4. Let us examine ourselves on a regular basis (Psalm 139:23-24).
