JUDGES 2:6-8

And when Joshua had dismissed the people, the children of Israel went each to his own inheritance to possess the land. So the people served the LORD all the days of Joshua, and all the days of the elders who outlived Joshua, who had seen all the great works of the LORD which He had done for Israel. Now Joshua the son of Nun, the servant of the LORD, died when he was one hundred and ten years old.

A soap advertisement depicted a little fellow looking intently at his shadow, which fell across his pathway. The slogan underneath the picture read, “That’s the only thing I can’t wash out!” This clever bit of sales promotion is also a good reminder of the indelible shadow of influence we cast on others by our example.

The Bible records that Joshua not only had a long life, but he had an influential life as well. The way Joshua chose to live influenced the people of his generation and also the “elders who outlived Joshua.” His example made a lasting impact on the younger generation that took the leadership role after him. While eventually the nation of Israel fell away from the Lord, that was delayed by Joshua’s godly influence for at least another generation.

Wrong attitudes and actions can engrave an impression on young minds that is impossible to erase. But just as we can leave a permanent mark for evil, we also can leave a lasting effect for good. We should strive to live so that our loving spirit, vibrant faith and purity of life are never diluted by inconsistency.

Consider that what you choose to do will continue on long after you are gone. Live in such a way that when you stand before the Judgment Seat of Christ, you will not be ashamed of your influence.

LET YOUR LIGHT SO SHINE THAT IT WILL CAST THE RIGHT KIND OF SHADOW.

WOODROW KROLL
www.backtothebible.in