Joshua 22:5

But take diligent heed to do the commandment and the law, which Moses the servant of the Lord charged you, to love the Lord your God, and to walk in all his ways, and to keep his commandments, and to cleave unto him, and to serve him with all your heart and with all your soul.

Joshua 22:5 (KJV)

Context

Joshua spoke these words to the tribes of Reuben, Gad, and the half-tribe of Manasseh. These tribes had received their inheritance on the eastern side of the Jordan River. After the conquest of the Promised Land, Joshua sent them home with a solemn charge. He reminded them that their obedience must continue even when they were far from the central place of worship.

Meaning

The phrase “take diligent heed” means careful, watchful obedience. It is not casual or partial. Joshua called the people to do the commandment and the law that Moses, the servant of the Lord, had charged them. This law included the Ten Commandments and all the other instructions given through Moses. The verse lists five duties that flow from this charge.

First, they were to love the Lord their God. This love was not mere emotion. It was deep devotion, reverence, and commitment. Second, they were to walk in all his ways. This means living according to God’s principles and aligning their choices with his will. Third, they were to keep his commandments. They were to observe and fulfil them in daily life, not just know them.

Fourth, they were to “cleave unto him.” This word means to cling or hold fast. It describes a strong, intimate connection with God. They were to rely on him and seek his presence continually. Fifth, they were to serve him with all their heart and with all their soul. This service was not a superficial duty. It involved their thoughts, affections, motivations, and actions.

Biblical connections

This charge echoes the great commandment that Moses gave in Deuteronomy 6:5, to love the Lord with all the heart and soul. Joshua’s words are a summary of the covenant obligations for all Israel. The command to love God is the true motive for keeping his commands. Obedience is the evidence of that love.

Application

These principles remain relevant for every believer. Taking diligent heed means being intentional about obedience. It requires attention to God’s Word and a deliberate choice to follow it. Loving God must come first, because it shapes everything else. Walking in his ways means letting his truth guide daily decisions.

Keeping his commandments is a practical expression of loyalty. Cleaving to him means staying close to him, especially when facing temptation or distraction. Serving him with the whole heart and soul leaves no room for divided loyalty. This kind of wholehearted devotion is possible when we remember all that God has done for us.

Reflection

Joshua’s farewell words call us to examine our own walk with God. Do we take his commands seriously, or do we treat them lightly? Do we love him with genuine devotion, or only with words? The call to cleave to him reminds us that our relationship with God is not distant. He is near, and we are to hold fast to him.

This verse is not only for ancient Israel. It is a timeless invitation to love, obey, and serve the Lord with all that we are. As we return to our daily lives, we can carry this charge with us, knowing that God is worthy of our wholehearted devotion.