Joshua 22:5

But be very careful to observe the commandment and the law that Moses the servant of the LORD gave you: to love the LORD your God, to walk in all His ways, to keep His commandments, to hold fast to Him, and to serve Him with all your heart and with all your soul."

Study Bible

But be very careful
This phrase underscores the importance of vigilance and intentionality in spiritual matters. The Hebrew root for "careful" is "shamar," which means to guard, keep, or observe. It implies a proactive stance in maintaining one's faith and obedience. In the historical context, the Israelites were entering a new phase of life in the Promised Land, and the call to be careful was a reminder to remain steadfast in their covenant with God amidst new challenges and temptations.

to keep the commandment and the law
The "commandment and the law" refer to the Torah, the divine instructions given through Moses. The Hebrew word for "keep" is "shamar," which also means to watch over or preserve. This highlights the necessity of not just knowing God's laws but actively preserving and living by them. Historically, this was crucial for the Israelites to maintain their identity and relationship with God in a land filled with pagan influences.

that Moses the servant of the LORD gave you
Moses is referred to as "the servant of the LORD," a title of honor that signifies his role as a faithful leader and mediator between God and Israel. This phrase emphasizes the divine authority behind the commandments, as they were delivered through God's chosen servant. It also serves as a reminder of the continuity of God's covenant from Moses to Joshua and the people.

to love the LORD your God
The command to "love" God is central to the Shema (Deuteronomy 6:4-5) and is foundational to the covenant relationship. The Hebrew word for love, "ahav," implies deep affection and commitment. This love is not merely emotional but is demonstrated through obedience and devotion. In the scriptural context, loving God is the primary motivation for all other commandments.

to walk in all His ways
"To walk" in God's ways means to live a life that reflects His character and commandments. The Hebrew word "halak" means to go or walk, indicating a continuous, active lifestyle. This phrase calls believers to model their lives after God's righteousness and holiness, embodying His principles in every aspect of life.

to keep His commandments
Reiterating the importance of obedience, this phrase emphasizes the need to adhere to God's specific instructions. The commandments are not burdensome but are given for the well-being and flourishing of God's people. Historically, obedience to these commandments distinguished Israel from surrounding nations and was a testimony to God's wisdom and justice.

to hold fast to Him
The phrase "hold fast" comes from the Hebrew "dabaq," meaning to cling or adhere closely. It conveys a sense of loyalty and unwavering commitment. In the context of Israel's history, holding fast to God was crucial for maintaining their covenant relationship, especially when faced with external pressures and internal doubts.

and to serve Him
Service to God is an act of worship and devotion. The Hebrew word "abad" means to work or serve, indicating that serving God involves active participation in His purposes. This service is not limited to religious rituals but encompasses all aspects of life, reflecting a heart fully devoted to God.

with all your heart and with all your soul
This phrase calls for complete and undivided devotion. The "heart" (Hebrew "lev") represents the center of one's thoughts, emotions, and will, while the "soul" (Hebrew "nephesh") signifies one's entire being. Together, they emphasize total commitment to God, leaving no part of life untouched by His influence. This holistic devotion is the essence of true worship and the fulfillment of the greatest commandment.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Joshua
The leader of Israel after Moses, who led the Israelites into the Promised Land. He is giving a charge to the tribes of Reuben, Gad, and the half-tribe of Manasseh.

2. Moses
The servant of the LORD who received the Law from God and led the Israelites out of Egypt. His teachings and commandments are referenced as the standard to follow.

3. Reuben, Gad, and the half-tribe of Manasseh
These tribes were given land on the east side of the Jordan River and are being reminded by Joshua to remain faithful to God's commandments.

4. The LORD (Yahweh)
The covenant God of Israel, who delivered them from Egypt and gave them the Law through Moses.

5. The Promised Land
The land of Canaan, which God promised to the descendants of Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob. The tribes are settling in this land and are being reminded to remain faithful to God.

Teaching Points

Obedience to God's Commandments
The call to "keep the commandment and the law" emphasizes the importance of obedience as a demonstration of faithfulness to God.

Love as the Foundation
Loving the LORD your God is foundational to all other commandments. Our actions and obedience should stem from a genuine love for God.

Walking in God's Ways
Walking in God's ways involves a daily commitment to live according to His principles and teachings.

Holding Fast to God
To "hold fast" implies a steadfast commitment and loyalty to God, especially in times of trial or temptation.

Serving with Heart and Soul
Serving God with all your heart and soul requires total devotion and dedication, reflecting a life fully surrendered to Him.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does Joshua 22:5 reflect the overall message of the covenant relationship between God and Israel?

2. In what ways can we apply the command to "love the LORD your God" in our daily lives today?

3. How does the concept of "holding fast" to God challenge us in our current cultural context?

4. What are some practical ways to "walk in all His ways" in our modern world?

5. How do the teachings in Joshua 22:5 connect with Jesus' teachings in the New Testament about love and obedience?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Deuteronomy 6:5
This verse emphasizes loving God with all your heart, soul, and strength, which is echoed in Joshua 22:5.

John 14:15
Jesus speaks about the connection between love and obedience, similar to the call in Joshua 22:5 to love God and keep His commandments.

Psalm 119:1-2
These verses highlight the blessing of walking in the law of the LORD and seeking Him with all one's heart, paralleling the exhortation in Joshua 22:5.