The Mind of Christ

Joshua 23:8
but you shall cling to the Lord your God just as you have done to this day.

This verse takes place many years after God’s chosen people conquered the “Promise Land” Moses’s has passed away and Joshua, his brother, is the leader. He urges them to remain steadfast in their obedience to God, warning them against intermingling with the remaining pagan nations and their idolatry. He reminds them of God’s faithfulness in leading them into the Promised Land and promises continued support. Joshua knows that it will be difficult but assures them that God is ever present!

In this verse we read that they are to “cling” to God. That word in the Greek is “dabaq” and means to adhere or figuratively to abide. Often when we think of abiding or adhering, we think about “doing something”; however, in the scriptures, this is not the meaning. We are to rest, knowing that the work has been completed. This concept of resting in God is not merely a passive act; rather, it involves an active faith that trusts deeply in the sovereignty and faithfulness of our Creator. This work is much harder than any physical labor we may undertake; it requires us to look outside of ourselves and place our complete trust in our heavenly Father, who knows our needs and desires. John 15:4-5 states, “Abide in me, and I in you. As the branch cannot bear fruit by itself unless it abides in the vine, neither can you unless you abide in me.” What John is imploring us to do is to abide (rest) in the finished work of Christ and to understand that all has been accomplished on the cross. Jesus’s death, burial, and resurrection are sufficient for our salvation and empowerment. When we genuinely take the time to rest in this truth, acknowledging that our efforts do not contribute to our redemption, our only response is that we WILL bear good fruit. This is such great news! Jesus does the hard work, and as we rely on Him, we will bear fruit that glorifies God and enriches the lives of those around us. This abiding relationship transforms our hearts, leading us to reflect His love, grace, and truth in our daily interactions.