“Then Joshua built an altar unto the LORD God of Israel in mount Ebal” (Joshua 8:30).
TEXT — Joshua 8:30-35
Message
Freshness is maintained through a regular process of renewal. This is important in every aspect of life otherwise, staleness may set in. Organisations plan refreshers courses and retreats with the intention of reminding staff of what they already know and updating their skills and knowledge to changed standard as well as providing the opportunity to ensure that no important skills or knowledge have been lost due to lack of use or time.
Joshua called all Israel to Mount Ebal to renew and recommit themselves to the worship of the Lord as commanded by Moses. This important meeting was held immediately after the battle with Ai was completed. They offered sacrifices to God and listened to the reading of the words of the law, not only the blessings but also the curses. It was a solemn assembly that called everyone to rededicate their lives to God.
This recommitment event occurred right after the victory over Ai in battle. As we navigate life, passing through moments of sighing and singing, defeat and victory, trials, troubles and triumph, we must learn to raise altars of praise and thanksgiving unto God who alone gives victory. It is worthy of note that everyone, young and old, home-born and strangers, including the men of war, were all present at this event. This emphasises the need to bring everyone under our roof to where we worship, leaving none behind.
We need to renew our commitment to Christ constantly at the altar of consecration. We should make this a daily practice. Whether we have just had a victory or suffered some losses, placing our lives upon the altar helps to remind us constantly that we belong to the Lord and keeps us focused to enjoy perpetual divine presence and victory in life.
Thought for the day
The secret of perpetual victory is to recommit your life to God daily.
Listed among “500 most powerful people on the planet” by the Foreign Policy magazine in 2013, Pastor (Dr.) William F. Kumuyi is the founder and General Superintendent of the Deeper Christian Life Ministry (DCLM) headquartered in Lagos, Nigeria. DCLM started in 1973 as a 15-member Bible study group right in Kumuyi’s apartment at University of Lagos where he was a lecturer. His revolutionary Bible teaching on personal holiness and commitment to evangelism soon gained so much traction and resulted in a widespread revival.
