In our spiritual journey, one powerful directive stands out: "Go after it." This call to action is more than a motivational phrase; it’s a profound invitation to seek and experience the glory of God in our lives. Just as the Israelites were instructed to follow the Ark of the Covenant with intention and reverence, we are called to earnestly pursue God’s glory, allowing it to shape our journey.
The Command to Follow the Ark
In Joshua 3:3-4, the leaders of Israel gave clear instructions: “When you see the ark of the covenant of the Lord your God, and the priests, the Levites, bearing it, then you shall set out from your place and go after it. Yet there shall be a space between you and it…that you may know the way by which you must go, for you have not passed this way before.” This command highlights several important aspects of pursuing God’s glory:
1. The Purpose of Distance
Protection: The Ark symbolized God’s holy presence. Maintaining a respectful distance was crucial for the Israelites’ safety. Direct contact with the Ark was dangerous due to its holiness, underscoring the need to honor and reverence God’s presence.
Visibility: With such a large number of people, keeping a significant distance (more than half a mile) ensured that everyone could see and follow the Ark. This visibility was essential for unity and direction, enabling the Israelites to move forward together in alignment with God's will.
Going After It: The Pursuit of God’s Glory
1. Courage to Pursue
Pursuing God’s glory often requires courage. Joshua 1:9 instructs us: “Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged, for the Lord your God will be with you wherever you go.” Just as the Israelites needed courage to follow the Ark into uncharted territory, we too must step out in faith. Going after God's glory demands bravery to trust in His guidance, especially when the path is uncertain or challenging. It’s about moving forward with the assurance that God’s presence is with us every step of the way.
2. Sanctification: Preparing for the Journey
Sanctification is a key aspect of pursuing God’s glory. Joshua 3:5 states, “Sanctify yourselves, for tomorrow the Lord will do wonders among you.” To sanctify ourselves is to set apart our lives for God’s purpose, purifying ourselves from sin and dedicating ourselves to His service. This is further emphasized in 1 Peter 1:15-16: “But just as he who called you is holy, so be holy in all you do; for it is written: 'Be holy, because I am holy.'” Sanctification positions us to witness and participate in God’s miraculous works, making us effective vessels for His kingdom.
A Parallel to Our Spiritual Journey
The journey of the Israelites to the Promised Land serves as a powerful parallel to our spiritual quest. Just as they were called to follow the Ark and seek God’s guidance, we are called to pursue His glory with intentionality and dedication.
Key Point: Eternal Perspective
Seeking God’s glory is not just about temporary gains but about aligning our lives with eternal significance. When we prioritize God’s glory, we stay focused on what truly matters and align ourselves with His divine purpose. This eternal perspective helps us navigate through life's distractions and challenges, keeping us oriented towards God's ultimate plans for us.
The call to "Go after it" is a powerful invitation to pursue the glory of God in our lives. By following the example of the Israelites, embracing courage, and committing to sanctification, we can align ourselves with God's will and experience His transformative presence. As we go after God’s glory, we not only enrich our spiritual journey but also become active participants in His divine plan, reflecting His glory in every aspect of our lives.