Only carefully obey the command and instruction that Moses the Lord's servant gave you: to love the Lord your God, walk in all His ways, keep His commands, remain faithful to Him, and serve Him with all you heart and all your soul.” Joshua 22:5 HCSB
I have heard it said, “If you want your children to follow in your footsteps, be careful where you put your feet.” Most parents are proud when their children want to follow in their footsteps and devote themselves to the same profession. Some parents, however, have not been very careful where they have walked and have not set a godly example. God's desire is for parents to teach their children how to live and love Him.
In this verse Joshua is restating the basic message from Moses: “Love the Lord your God with all you heart, with all your soul, and with all your strength” (Deuteronomy 6:5 and restated by Jesus in Matthew 22:37). He is reminding the Israelites of the importance to love and obey God. Joshua even says “carefully” obey – make sure you do exactly what God has commanded.
Challenge: We are to walk in His ways. Do not get sidetracked and stray onto the path that leads to the darkness of evil. Satan will strive to make you think that bad is good, darkness is light, and that popularity is more important than truth and integrity. Be careful where you walk. Others are watching you. You can destroy your witness with just one foolish decision to follow in the ways of Satan instead of walking in His ways. Do not be deceived. Keep your eyes on Jesus. Ask God to help you stay on the path that leads to life – the abundant life! (John 10:10)