The Importance of Obedience. (Joshua 1: 10-18)

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In today’s episode, we explore the significance of obedience, both to God and to human authority, as seen in Joshua 1:10-18. Obedience is not always easy, but it is foundational to spiritual growth and God’s plan for our lives.

Key Themes:

• The tension between wanting to obey God and the pull of self-interest.
• The challenge of obeying human authority, especially when leaders are imperfect.
• Joshua’s commands to the Israelites and their response of full submission.
• The importance of unity and collective obedience in fulfilling God’s purposes.

Study Notes:

1. Joshua’s Commands (Joshua 1:10-15)

• Joshua instructs the people to prepare provisions as they prepare to cross the Jordan.
• This marks a transition from reliance on supernatural provision (manna) to taking responsibility for their sustenance.
• The Reubenites, Gadites, and half-tribe of Manasseh are reminded of their duty to help their fellow Israelites claim their inheritance before settling in their own land.
• This obedience required sacrifice, patience, and trust in God’s timing.

2. The People’s Response (Joshua 1:16-18)

• The Israelites pledge wholehearted obedience: “We will do, we will go, we will obey.”
• They affirm Joshua’s leadership, recognizing that God is with him as He was with Moses.
• Their commitment underscores the importance of obedience for spiritual growth and collective success.
• They recognize that disobedience carries serious consequences.

Lessons for Today:

• Obedience is foundational: It is necessary for spiritual growth, leadership, and God’s blessings.
• Faith and trust are required: Obedience often means stepping into the unknown, trusting God’s plans even when they don’t align with our expectations.
• Sacrifice may be necessary: Just as the 2½ tribes had to leave their land and fight for others, we may be called to serve without immediate personal benefit.
• Encouragement for leaders: The Israelites’ obedience strengthened Joshua’s leadership—our obedience can encourage those leading us in faith.

Reflection Questions:

• How do you respond when obedience requires sacrifice, patience, or trust?
• Are there areas in your life where you struggle to submit to authority? How can you align your attitude with bi

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Chapters

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• 21:32 (Cont.) The Importance of Obedience. (Joshua 1: 10-18)

Transcript

Obeying God. (Joshua 1:10-18)

Transcript. 

If you're anything like me, there’s a part of your heart that genuinely wants to obey the Lord. However, I must admit, that this desire often ebbs and flows, much like the tide. There are moments when I’m overwhelmed with an intense longing to please God, and then there are times when that desire feels faint.

Let’s be honest—there’s also another, competing desire within me: the desire to please myself. I suspect you’ve experienced this tension too. It’s a conflict we all face. On the one hand, there’s a part of us that genuinely wants to obey the Lord and please Him. On the other hand, there’s that inner pull to do things our own way.

When I think about obedience, this is the internal struggle that comes to mind. Yet, if I’m being completely honest, I have to admit for me it’s not only been about submitting to God—it’s been about obeying other people. 

You see, while I sometimes struggle to align my will with God’s, I can at least look to Scripture for clarity. God provides us with His commands, His promises, and His guidance.

But when it comes to other humans with authority over me. That’s an even greater challenge and I think many of us will have struggled with this at some point.

It’s hard to obey people for several reasons:

Firstly, they’re not perfect. I’ve worked for people who made mistakes, and it’s tough to follow someone when you see the cliff you are walking towards.

Sometimes, leaders make decisions that or wrong or sometimes they will even make demands that feel unjust.

They don’t always understand. I’ve been under leaders who gave me targets that weren’t achievable and failed to see that people couldn’t handle what they were asked today and because they failed to offer training or support people were overwhelmed.

Well today, we’re going to explore a moment in Scripture where the Israelites were called to obey a human leader. We’re continuing our series on the book of Joshua, and today we’re focusing on Joshua 1:10–18.

Yesterday in the first nine verses of this chapter, God gives a command to Joshua, commissioning him as Israel’s new leader. But today, beginning in verse 10, Joshua turns around and issues commands to the people.

Lets see what those commands are and how the people respond.

Today, beginning in verse 10, Joshua issues commands to the people.

This passage is clearly divided into two parts:

The commands Joshua gives to the people (verses 10–15).

The response of the people to Joshua (verses 16–18).

Here, we see a spiritual truth that’s vital for us to understand and apply. 

Let’s dive into the specific commands Joshua gave and what they teach us about obedience.

So first, Joshua’s Commands to the People.

10 So Joshua ordered the officers of the people: 11 “Go through the camp and tell the people, ‘Get your provisions ready. Three days from now you will cross the Jordan here to go in and take possession of the land the Lord your God is giving you for your own.’” 12 But to the Reubenites, the Gadites and the half-tribe of Manasseh, Joshua said, 13 “Remember the command that Moses the servant of the Lord gave you after he said, ‘The Lord your God will give you rest by giving you this land.’ 14 Your wives, your children and your livestock may stay in the land that Moses gave you east of the Jordan, but all your fighting men, ready for battle, must cross over ahead of your fellow Israelites. You are to help them 15 until the Lord gives them rest, as he has done for you, and until they too have taken possession of the land the Lord your God is giving them. After that, you may go back and occupy your own land, which Moses the servant of the Lord gave you east of the Jordan toward the sunrise.”

(Joshua 1: 10-15)

So, Joshua commands the officers to go through the camp and instruct the people to prepare provisions because in a couple of days they will cross over this Jordan, to go in and take the land.

This first command might seem straightforward, but it’s actually significant. Up until this point, the Israelites had been entirely dependent on God’s supernatural provision of manna—food that literally rained down from heaven daily. 

Now, Joshua is telling them that this provision will soon end. They’ll need to take responsibility for gathering and preparing their own food as they enter the Promised Land.

This likely involved harvesting grains that were around where they were based or preparing livestock on for the later move across the river.

It was a practical command, but it also signified a shift. The Israelites were moving from a season of miraculous provision into a season of stewardship and responsibility.

Interestingly, verse 11 mentions that the Israelites would cross the Jordan in three days. However, as we continue reading, we discover that the crossing didn’t actually happen within that time frame. In the following chapter, the spies are sent out and are gone for three days, delaying the timeline. This small detail reminds us that God’s plans often unfold differently than we expect, even when we’re following His commands. 

Obedience to this command required patience and trust, even when the timeline didn’t align with expectations.

So, Joshua issued two key commands in this passage.

The first, was directed at all the Israelites: they were to prepare provisions

The second command was specifically for the tribes of Reuben, Gad, and half of Manasseh, who had been allocated land east of the Jordan. Joshua reminded them of Moses’ earlier instructions: Although their families and livestock could settle in the land already given to them, their warriors were required to cross the Jordan and assist the other tribes in conquering their inheritance.

This command required significant sacrifice from these guys. These men had to leave their homes, families, and possessions to fight battles that wouldn’t directly benefit them. Furthermore, only a percentage (about a third) of their warriors—40,000 of the 110,000 available will crossed the Jordan (Joshua 4:13). The rest stayed behind to protect their families and possessions. This wasn’t a contradiction but rather a practical arrangement to balance security and military support.

These commands weren’t easy to follow. Put yourself in the shoes of the Israelites:

For the general population, the transition from manna to self-provision would have been unsettling in itself. They had grown accustomed to daily miracles of food falling from heaven. Now, they were told to fend for themselves, and the added uncertainty of the timeline—"three days" turning into a longer wait—would have tested their patience.

For the 2½ tribes, the command was even more difficult. They were asked to leave their families and possessions behind to fight for land that wasn’t theirs. This tells me that obedience sometimes required not only faith but also selflessness and sacrifice.

Imagine how this might feel in a modern context. Think of an employer who suddenly revokes a benefit you’ve relied on for years or asks you to take on extra work for someone else’s gain. It’s one thing to obey when the benefits are clear and immediate, but it’s far more challenging when obedience requires sacrifice, patience and no direct personal gain.

Despite these difficulties, the Israelites’ obedience set the stage for God to fulfill His promises. Their willingness to trust Joshua’s leadership—even when the commands seemed difficult or inconvenient—demonstrated their faith in God’s plan.

It’s worth pausing for a moment here and asking yourself how you respond when obedience feels tough? Are we willing to trust God’s timing and submit, even when the instructions don’t align with your expectations or personal comfort?

The Reubenites, Gadites, and half the tribe of Manasseh faced a significant challenge: although they had received their inheritance on the east side of the Jordan, they were commanded to leave that land, cross the river, and help the other tribes conquer theirs.

Imagine waiting years to settle in your own land, a place where you can build a home, plant a garden, and leave behind the wilderness tents. Finally, you arrive, but instead of settling down, you're told to get up again, leave it all behind and go help someone else.

Some of the most frustrating time in life are when you are close to achieving a goal and enjoying your reward yet being asked to delay for the sake of others.

Beyond not enjoying their own land, the 2½ tribes were tasked with risking their lives to fight battles that wouldn’t directly benefit them. Unlike a job where there’s at least some personal reward—whether it’s a bonus or a thank-you, or even a promotion, this command offered no tangible benefit. Instead, it came with the risk of death.

Imagaine being at work, given a tough assignment, and then being told to leave your task to help someone else with theirs. These scenarios reflect the natural resistance we feel when our plans are interrupted or when we’re asked to sacrifice for others.

Despite the difficulty, the response of the Israelites in verses 16–18 is remarkable:

16 Then they answered Joshua, “Whatever you have commanded us we will do, and wherever you send us we will go. 

17 Just as we fully obeyed Moses, so we will obey you. Only may the Lord your God be with you as he was with Moses.

18 Whoever rebels against your word and does not obey it, whatever you may command them, will be put to death. Only be strong and courageous!”

(Joshua 10: 16-18)

Their response demonstrated wholehearted obedience. They pledged to do whatever Joshua commanded, to go wherever he sent them, and to heed his leadership as they had Moses’. These three commitments—“We will do, we will go, we will obey”—show the critical importance of submission to authority in both life and faith.

Have you ever grasped the fact that in God’s plan for us obedience is foundational to spiritual growth. It’s not optional, it’s an obligation. 

Learning to obey human authority, such as parents or any leaders, is a necessary step toward, a template to learn the habit of being obedient to God.

This principle applies to all of life. Without obedience, we struggle to grow, learn, or thrive spiritually. Obedience is God’s gateway to greater things.

The Israelites’ response in this passage serves as a powerful example of faithful obedience, in action, even in difficult circumstances. They didn’t argue or hesitate—they trusted Joshua’s leadership, knowing it aligned with God’s will.

Their example should challenge us all.

Let me ask, how do we respond when obedience requires sacrifice, patience, or trust? 

Do we obey with the same willingness and faith as the Israelites, or do we resist, looking for easier paths?

Obedience may not always be easy, but it is essential. It is the foundation of spiritual growth, the key to effective leadership, and the pathway to God’s blessings. And as the Israelites pledged, may we also say, “We will do, we will go, we will obey.”

The Israelites didn’t just pledge their obedience to Joshua. This wasn’t a casual commitment. They were so serious about the importance of obedience that they promised to enforce it with potentially the ultimate penalty. 

While this may seem harsh to modern ears, it underscores just how vital unity and submission were for their survival as a nation preparing to enter and claim this Promised Land from people who would wage war against them to try and stop them.

Of course, we don’t live under the Old Testament system where disobedience carries such severe physical consequences. But does that mean disobedience to authority isn’t serious today? 

The connection is clear: rebelling against human authority—when that authority is properly established—is, in a sense, rebelling against God.

This principle is echoed in the New Testament:

“Let every soul be subject to the governing authorities. For there is no authority except from God, and the authorities that exist are appointed by God. Therefore, whoever resists the authority resists the ordinance of God, and those who resist will bring judgment on themselves.”

(Romans 13:1–2)

While Joshua’s command to put rebels to death was specific to the circumstances of ancient Israel, the spiritual principle remains. Disobedience brings judgment—maybe not physical death, but certainly spiritual and relational consequences.

The Israelites’ response wasn’t just personal; it was communal, it was a whole entire community, a civic response.

In these verses we see two aspects of their obedience:

Personal Obedience (“We will do all that you command.”)

Obedience in Others (“Whoever rebels…shall face the ultimate sanction”)

They weren’t content to simply obey themselves; they committed to ensuring everyone else obeyed as well. This wasn’t about being controlled but about recognizing that unity and obedience were essential for their mission to possess the land to succeed.

Contrast this with our modern attitudes. Instead of promoting obedience, people often undermine. Authority figures, whether parents, bosses, or leaders, are frequently the butt of jokes. I At work, in schools, or even in churches, people roll their eyes at rules or laugh at those in charge.

This casual disrespect doesn’t just affect us; it sets an example for others, especially children. Instead of promoting obedience, we have normalized disobedience, and the cost of that is significant.

Teaching and learning obedience is hard. Sometimes it feels painful, and there are moments when obedience requires sacrifice. But the bible teaches that there is pain in obedience, but it is never as great as the pain of disobedience.

Disobedience carries consequences—broken trust, lost opportunities, and damaged relationships. These consequences are often far more severe and long-lasting than the temporary discomfort of obedience. 

For parents, getting children to listen may feel like a constant uphill battle, but it’s worth it. Without learning to respect authority at home, children will struggle to respect authority at school or even later in the workplace, in society, or even before God.

What stands out most for me in this passage is the wholeheartedness of the Israelites’ obedience. They didn’t grumble, hesitate, or give half-hearted effort. They committed fully:

“We will do everything you command.”

“We will ensure others obey as well.”

“We will be strong and courageous.”

These final statements are significant. 

By pledging their obedience, the Israelites encouraged Joshua as their leader. Imagine the confidence and strength this gave him, knowing his people were united behind him.

On the flip side, disobedience and rebellion would have discouraged him and made his leadership far more difficult.

This passage challenges us to examine our own attitudes toward obedience:

Are we willing to submit to authority, even when it’s difficult or inconvenient?

Do we set an example of obedience for others, especially our children or those we influence?

Do we encourage our leaders, whether pastors, parents, or supervisors at work, or do we make their roles harder through resistance or negativity?

Obedience is foundational, not just for personal growth but for the health of families, communities, workplaces, and churches. It’s not just about following rules; it’s about creating an environment where everyone can thrive under God’s direction.

So, let’s take a lesson from the Israelites: obey wholeheartedly, promote obedience in others, and encourage those in leadership. As they told Joshua, “Be strong and of good courage.”

This is a powerful and sobering conclusion to this lesson. It drives home the critical point that obedience, especially to those in authority, is not just a matter of order and structure, it's a matter of life and spiritual health. 

If any of you listening have served in the military will know if people don't respond immediately and wholeheartedly to the commands given by those who are in positions of authority, the results can be catastrophic. An that applies, whether in the physical, emotional, or spiritual realms also.

What stands out in this passage is the principle that obedience is about more than just following rules. It's about fostering respect, trust, and a sense of accountability that impacts every area of our lives. Whether we're dealing with parents, employers, or government leaders, learning to obey prepares us to navigate life with discipline and humility, opening the door for God's blessings and the full realization of His plan for us.

The connection to spiritual growth is especially significant. As highlighted, across scripture those who learn to obey little things are entrusted with greater responsibilities. 

This aligns perfectly with the word of Jesus recorded in Luke 16:10: "He who is faithful in a very little thing is faithful also in much." 

Obedience is a training ground, shaping us into people who can steward more of what God has in store for us.

When God calls us to act, we must trust Him, even if we don't fully understand His reasons. This principle carries over into our relationships with human authority, as they are often placed in our lives to guide and protect us.

The closing challenge is both practical and profound:

Obedience is something we must learn, teach, and practice at every level. Whether it's children obeying parents, employees respecting bosses, or citizens honoring their leaders, this principle lays the foundation for personal growth and societal stability.

It also shapes us into people who can lead others effectively, as obedience teaches us to listen, trust, and act with integrity.

I think the lesson is clear: obedience isn't optional. It's a divine mandate with eternal implications. 

It may not always be easy, and sometimes it may even feel counterintuitive, but the cost of disobedience is far greater. 

So let’s take today’s challenge seriously and strive to obey those in authority over us, not just for their sake or ours, but ultimately for the glory of God.