(Joshua 8:9)

What an encouragement the
presence of Joshua was to the people at such a time. They had beheld in the
past many displays of God’s grace and power. Past victories, however, give no
power for future conflict. Ai, where Israel had been defeated, lay before them;
with many fears and much trembling they needed Joshua’s company and his
presence near them. At this critical time it is written, "Joshua lodged .
. . among the people." He was God’s appointed leader—their captain. In his
lodging with them that night we read that lovely grace in our Lord Jesus Christ
which He expressed in these words, "Lo, I am with you alway, even unto the
end of the world" (Matt. 28:20). He associates Himself with us in all the
conflict and trial of the way. What cheer this is to them who make it their
great business to walk with God here. See a lovely instance in which our Lord
associates Himself with His own. Two disciples journeyed with Him to Emmaus.
They desired His company and said, "Abide with us … and He went in to
tarry with them" (Luke 24:29).

We know its attendant blessing.
He is now in the glory above, and yet one of His sweetest promises is, "If
a man love Me, he will keep My words:and My Father will love him, and We will
come unto him, and make our abode with him" (John 14:23). Joshua lodged
that night among the people. The Saviour abides with those who love His word
and keep it. Lord, may we love Thy name and keep Thy word, and thus enjoy Thy
company and nearness day by day.