Success Through His Word (v2)

1. The Foundation

"Keep this Book of the Instruction always on your lips; meditate on it day and night, so that you may be careful to do everything written in it. Then you will be prosperous and successful." (Joshua 1:8, NIV)

In this excerpt from the song, we find a reiteration of a profound principle for spiritual success: meditation, proclamation, and implementation of God's Word. The foundational scripture, Joshua 1:8, sets forth a divine formula—a guarantee from the Creator Himself—that if we adhere to His Word, it shall produce prosperity and success in the life of the believer.

2. The Historical & Biblical Context

Joshua stands at the threshold of the Promised Land, commissioned to lead the Israelites after the death of Moses. The Israelites have wandered for forty years in the wilderness, and now they are poised to claim their inheritance. Joshua, as the appointed leader by God, is instructed not through military strategy but through commitment to God's Word. "This Book of the Law" represents the divine instructions received through Moses. In a time of such transition and uncertainty, God emphasizes unwavering obedience to His commands as the supreme directive for victory.

3. Word Study (Hebrew/Greek)

The Hebrew word for "meditate" in Joshua 1:8 is "הגה" (hagah). This word conveys a sense deeper than simple contemplation; it means to murmur, mutter, or speak softly. The image here is of a continuous, audible engagement with God's Word—a verbalization that reinforces memory and understanding. This practice transforms the truth into a constant companion, engraving itself upon the heart and mind.

The word for "prosperous" is "צלח" (tsalach), which goes beyond financial gain to suggest a thriving, successful path in God's purposes. It is about succeeding in what God has called you to do, empowered by His presence and involvement.

4. Theological Exposition

### Meditation as a Divine Mandate

"Meditate on His word, speak it, live it—then you will have good success."

The lyric mirrors the command given to Joshua: keep the Word always before you. This meditation requires repetition and verbal declaration, cementing truth within. It is an active process, not passive, demanding engagement and reflection upon God's promises and statutes in every situation.

### The Presence of God as Our Strength

"Wherever you go, the Lord your God is with you."

This assurance of God's presence is a cornerstone of our faith, echoing earlier promises such as Deuteronomy 31:6, "He will never leave you nor forsake you." It is the divine accompaniment that provides courage and dispels fear, crucial for Joshua's task and equally vital for believers today.

### Strength and Courage in Obedience

"Have I not commanded you? Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged."

The correlation between meditation on Scripture and the release of divine strength is clear. Courage and obedience are called forth when we internalize and act upon God's Word. True biblical success is not measured by material wealth, but by the fulfillment of God's will.

5. Practical Application: How to Walk This Out

1. Commit to Regular Meditation and Declaration:

2. Align Actions with the Word:

3. Depend on God's Presence:

4. Foster Courage in the face of Uncertainty:

6. A Proclamation & Prayer

Proclamation:

I commit to keeping God's Word on my lips. I will meditate on it day and night, that I may do according to all that is written in it. I declare that I am prosperous and successful, for the Lord my God is with me wherever I go.

Prayer:

Heavenly Father, empower me through Your Holy Spirit to meditate on Your Word consistently and effectively. Let Your truth shape my thoughts, words, and deeds. Strengthen my heart to be courageous and obedient, confident that Your presence leads me to success. In Jesus' name, Amen.