“This book of the law shall not depart out of thy mouth; but thou shalt meditate therein day and night, that thou mayest observe to do according to all that is written therein: for then thou shalt make thy way prosperous, and then thou shalt have good success.” (Joshua 1:8)
This verse, delivered to Joshua as he prepared to lead the Israelites into the Promised Land, emphasises the centrality of God’s Law in the life of the faithful. It is a powerful reminder of the blessings that come from diligent study and adherence to the Commandments.
The phrase “this book of the law shall not depart out of thy mouth” shows the necessity of continual engagement with the Scriptures. It is not enough to merely possess the Law; we must actively speak of it, ponder its precepts, and incorporate its teachings into our daily conversations and actions. The injunction to “meditate therein day and night” calls for a constant reflection on God’s word. This meditation is not a passive activity but an active engagement that shapes our thoughts, influences our decisions, and transforms our character.
The Lord’s counsel to Joshua correlates with the teachings found in other parts of the Bible. In Psalm 1:2, we read, “But his delight is in the Law of the Lord; and in his Law doth he meditate day and night.” This parallel highlights the joy and satisfaction that come from immersing oneself in the Scriptures. The continual meditation on the Law is portrayed as a source of delight and strength.
Joshua 1:8 also links the meditation on the Law to observance: “that thou mayest observe to do according to all that is written therein.” This connection between study and action is crucial. Knowledge of God’s Commandments must translate into obedience. As we learn from the Scriptures, we are called to live by their principles. The result of such faithful observance is described as prosperity and success. This prosperity encompasses spiritual well-being, peace, and fulfilment.
The Book of Mormon reinforces this principle. In 1 Nephi 19:23, we find Nephi emphasising the importance of the scriptures: “And I did read many things unto them which were written in the books of Moses; but that I might more fully persuade them to believe in the Lord their Redeemer I did read unto them that which was written by the prophet Isaiah; for I did liken all scriptures unto us, that it might be for our profit and learning.” Similarly, in Alma 37:8, Alma speaks to his son Helaman about the sacred records, stating, “It has hitherto been wisdom in God that these things should be preserved; for behold, they have enlarged the memory of this people, yea, and convinced many of the error of their ways, and brought them to the knowledge of their God unto the salvation of their souls.”
The Commandments are not merely some set of rules set down by men, but are divine guidance intended for our salvation. In the Doctrine and Covenants 82:10, the Lord promises, “I, the Lord, am bound when ye do what I say; but when ye do not what I say, ye have no promise.” This conditional promise reflects the eternal principle that obedience brings blessings. The Lord is ever ready to bless us, but we must do our part by keeping His Commandments.
In the Book of Mormon, King Benjamin succinctly summarises this doctrine in Mosiah 2:41: “And moreover, I would desire that ye should consider on the blessed and happy state of those that keep the commandments of God. For behold, they are blessed in all things, both temporal and spiritual; and if they hold out faithful to the end they are received into heaven, that thereby they may dwell with God in a state of never-ending happiness. O remember, remember that these things are true; for the Lord God hath spoken it.”
As we reflect on Joshua 1:8 and the related passages, we are reminded of the integral role of God’s Commandments in our lives. The Scriptures provide us with divine wisdom, and our meditation on them should lead to a life of faithful observance. In return, the Lord promises us prosperity, success, and ultimately, salvation. Therefore, may we commit to keeping the book of the Law always in our hearts and minds. Let us meditate on it day and night, striving to observe all that is written therein. By doing so, we will find true prosperity and success, both in this life and in the life to come.
May we all be blessed with the strength and resolve to live by these divine principles, and may we experience the fullness of joy that comes from walking in the path of righteousness.
Zion at Home
The principles outlined in Joshua 1:8, alongside the related passages from the Bible and the Book of Mormon, can be meaningfully applied to homebound members of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. These individuals, though physically limited in their mobility or other disabilities and illnesses, can still find profound spiritual growth and fulfilment through diligent engagement with the Scriptures and adherence to the Commandments.
For homebound members, the phrase “this book of the Law shall not depart out of thy mouth” helps us see the importance of making Scripture study an integral part of their daily routine. This can be achieved through various means.
- Personal Study: Encouraging daily reading and reflection on the Scriptures, allowing them to internalise the teachings and draw strength from them.
- Listening to Scripture: Utilising audio versions of the Scriptures can be particularly beneficial for those who may have difficulty reading.
- Discussion and Sharing: Engaging in conversations with family members, friends, or fellow church members via phone or video calls to discuss insights and applications of the Scriptures.
The call to “meditate therein day and night” is especially pertinent for homebound members. Meditation on the Scriptures can be a source of great comfort and inspiration, helping to transform their thoughts and character. There are a variety of practical ways to engage in this active reflection.
- Journaling: Writing down thoughts, impressions, and personal revelations received during Scripture study.
- Prayerful Meditation: Combining prayer with Scriptural meditation, seeking divine guidance and understanding.
- Quiet Contemplation: Setting aside quiet moments throughout the day to ponder specific passages and their relevance to one’s life.
The connection between studying the Scriptures and observing their teachings is crucial.
- Living Gospel Principles: Applying the principles learned from the Scriptures in daily interactions and decisions, even within the confines of their home.
- Service: Finding ways to serve others, such as through prayer, making uplifting phone calls, or creating handmade items for others.
- Faith and Obedience: Demonstrating faithfulness and obedience to God’s Commandments, trusting in His promises of spiritual prosperity and success.
Despite physical limitations, homebound members can still experience the spiritual prosperity and blessings promised in Joshua 1:8 and related Scriptures.
- Spiritual Well-Being: Cultivating a sense of peace, fulfilment, and joy through a close relationship with God.
- Strength and Resilience: Gaining strength to endure physical challenges through faith and trust in God’s promises.
- Fulfilment of Divine Promises: Receiving the blessings of comfort, guidance, and spiritual growth as they faithfully adhere to God’s Commandments.
The teachings from 1 Nephi 19:23 and Alma 37:8 further reinforce the importance of likening the Scriptures to one’s own life for “profit and learning.” For homebound members, this can be a source of immense strength and conviction.
- Enlarge Their Memory: Remind themselves of God’s faithfulness and past blessings.
- Gain Knowledge of God: Deepen their understanding of God’s nature and His plan for their salvation.
- Experience Salvation: Draw closer to God and feel His saving grace in their lives.
The journey of obedience and blessing outlined in Joshua 1:8 is deeply applicable to homebound members of the Church. By engaging continually with the Scriptures, meditating on them, and living according to their teachings, they can experience the promised blessings of spiritual prosperity, success, and ultimate salvation. These principles, grounded in both the Bible and the Book of Mormon, provide a solid foundation for a life of faith and devotion, even in the face of physical limitations.
