Joshua Chapter 24: Verse 31 (NIV-UK)
Israel served the Lord throughout the lifetime of Joshua and of the elders who outlived him and who had experienced everything the Lord had done for Israel.
Joshua and Caleb walked with God their whole lives, but their lives impacted on all of the people of Israel. By living as God called them to, they influenced all the people who followed their example. Even in his final address to the people Joshua told them, “As for me and my family we will serve the Lord.” He ended his life in the same manner he had lived it. He set a standard for others, and they recognised God’s hand on his life and copied his example.
We should never underestimate the influence we have on others, be it good or bad. People can recognise the reality of our Christian walk by the way that we live our daily lives, and it can seem attractive to them. We might not always realise that we are being observed, but we just need to look at the example of young children copying the actions of the grown ups round about them. Sometimes we laugh at their antics and sometimes we cringe if they have picked up a habit, phrase or attitude that we’d rather they hadn’t. But we sometimes forget that the same influence isn’t just exerted over our children. Let’s remember that the next time we are tempted to act in a manner we might regret later. When I was younger it was the in thing in some Christian circles for young people to wear a wrist band with the acronym, WWJD – “What would Jesus Do?” We don’t need a wrist band to remind us, but it certainly helps us to bear that thought in mind as we go about our day.
Dear Lord,
I’m grateful for the example set by Joshua and also for those who have had such a positive influence on me. Help me to remember that I also influence others even when I go about my day. May it not be something that would make me embarrassed, but rather bring glory to God. I ask in Jesus’ Name. Amen.