Topical Encyclopedia IntroductionThe practice of social and family prayer is a significant theme throughout the Bible, serving as a cornerstone for communal and familial spiritual life. In the context of the Old Testament, Joshua, the successor of Moses and leader of the Israelites, provides a compelling example of leadership that emphasizes the importance of prayer within both social and family settings. Joshua's life and actions underscore the necessity of seeking divine guidance and maintaining a covenant relationship with God through prayer. Joshua's Leadership and Prayer Joshua, son of Nun, is introduced as a man of faith and courage, chosen by God to lead the Israelites into the Promised Land. His leadership is marked by a deep reliance on God, often expressed through prayer. One of the most notable instances of Joshua's prayer life is found in the battle against the Amorites, where he famously commands the sun and moon to stand still. This miraculous event is recorded in Joshua 10:12-14 : "On the day the LORD gave the Amorites over to the Israelites, Joshua spoke to the LORD in the presence of Israel: 'O sun, stand still over Gibeon, O moon, over the Valley of Aijalon.' So the sun stood still and the moon stopped until the nation took vengeance upon its enemies." This passage highlights Joshua's role as an intercessor for the people, demonstrating the power of prayer in achieving God's purposes. His public prayer not only reflects his personal faith but also serves as a model for the Israelites, reinforcing the importance of seeking God's intervention in communal affairs. Family Prayer and Covenant Renewal Joshua's commitment to family prayer is most clearly articulated in his farewell address to the Israelites. As he nears the end of his life, Joshua gathers the tribes at Shechem to renew their covenant with God. In Joshua 24:15 , he famously declares, "But if it is unpleasing in your sight to serve the LORD, then choose for yourselves this day whom you will serve, whether the gods your fathers served beyond the Euphrates, or the gods of the Amorites in whose land you are living. As for me and my house, we will serve the LORD." This declaration underscores the importance of family prayer and devotion as foundational to the spiritual life of the community. Joshua's leadership extends beyond military and political realms, emphasizing the spiritual responsibility of each household to serve and worship God. His example encourages families to prioritize prayer and devotion, ensuring that their homes are places where God's presence is honored and His will is sought. Communal Prayer and Obedience Throughout the book of Joshua, communal prayer is closely linked with obedience to God's commands. Before the conquest of Jericho, Joshua leads the people in a series of actions that are deeply rooted in prayerful obedience. The Israelites march around the city for seven days, culminating in a shout of victory as the walls fall (Joshua 6:1-20). This event illustrates the power of collective prayer and obedience, as the community acts in unison under divine instruction. Joshua's leadership consistently points the Israelites toward a life of prayerful dependence on God. His example serves as a reminder of the importance of both social and family prayer in maintaining a faithful relationship with God. Through prayer, Joshua seeks divine guidance, intercedes for the people, and leads his household in covenant faithfulness, setting a standard for future generations to follow. Torrey's Topical Textbook Joshua 24:15And if it seem evil to you to serve the LORD, choose you this day whom you will serve; whether the gods which your fathers served that were on the other side of the flood, or the gods of the Amorites, in whose land you dwell: but as for me and my house, we will serve the LORD. Torrey's Topical Textbook Library Jewish Homes Covenanting Performed in Former Ages with Approbation from Above. Appendix 2 Extracts from the Babylon Talmud The Character and Supports of Widows Indeed. The Census of Israel Six Years in North Bengal --Missionary and Indigo Planter The New Crusade --Serampore and the Brotherhood The Annunciation of Jesus the Messiah, and the Birth of his ... General Conference of 1824 Chapter xxiv Resources Questions about Prayer (All) | GotQuestions.orgWhat is the purpose of prayer? | GotQuestions.org What is a prayer circle? | GotQuestions.org Prayer: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.com Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus |
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