Joshua 10:16-43 - Israel's Southern Campaign

Joshua 10:16-43

Joshua then said to them, “Do not fear or be dismayed! Be strong and courageous, for thus the Lord will do to all your enemies with whom you fight.” (verse 25)

Message: Israel's Southern Campaign

Time: Joshua "Yahweh saves" led Israel, under God's command, to victorious conquest of the Promised Land. The book spans about 25 years, beginning about 1406 BC. The conquest of Canaan, numerous military campaigns and regathering of the nation are major components. 

What the Lord is Saying: At this point in seizing the land of Canaan or gaining what God has promised them, they have achieved about 50% of the land. 5 Amorite kings joined together to attack Gibeon, a city that had a treaty with Joshua. Gibeon summoned Joshua and they came and with God on their side, the 5 kings were conquered. They not only were slayed but they were pursued, chasing after them and their armies after they fled. 

The 5 kings fled to a cave at Makkedah (v.16-17). Joshua told the men to roll large stones in front of the cave, to keep them in there and to guard the cave (v.18). Meanwhile, the people that fled from the battle with Israel, fled to their cities, but Joshua says to the people of Israel, "pursue your enemies and attack them in the rear. Do not allow them to enter their cities, for the Lord your God has delivered them into your hand. (v.19)" Most were conquered. 

Then Joshua returns to the cave at Makkedah and brings out the 5 kings (v. 22-23) and invites the commanders/chiefs of Israel's armies to "put your feet on the necks of these kings (v.24)." And Joshua assures the people of Israel "Do not fear or be dismayed! Be strong and courageous, for thus the Lord will do to all your enemies with whom you fight (v.25)." We are not simply strong and courageous out of self motivation or a self-challenge to stand tall above the rest of people, we are strong and courageous because the Lord is on our side, because the Lord is going to conquer our enemies. This is the overriding lesson from the book of Joshua thus far - with the Lord on our side, no one has a chance against us. God will win in the end, but it may look differently on this earth, at times. It may look like others are out in front. I think of Dietrich Bonhoeffer and this movie I watched recently about his life. Bonhoeffer is hanged after standing up for Jesus. He dies a martyr and I suppose that is my point, martyr's do die at times but these are people that lived their lives for principles that are eternal. 

In the Bible the imagery is present of conquering of placing one under the sole of their feet. I Kings 5:3, "You know that David my father was unable to build a house for the name of the Lord his God because of the wars which surrounded him, until the Lord put them under the soles of his feet." Psalm 47:3, "He subdues peoples under us and nations under our feet."

Thus Joshua was making a point to the commanders and the people of Israel that God is on our side and when this is present our enemies fall. 

Summary: The five Amorite kings end up in a cave, and Joshua has the commanders of the army put their feet on their necks of these kings showing God is on their side and they will defeat their enemies.

Promise: From Tabletalk, "We may not go into battle against other cities, but if we are complacent or neglectful, the world, the flesh, and the devil can rise up again to attack us even if we seem to have conquered them."

Prayer: God you are good. You are holy and true. Your ways are right and perfect. You are a God of order and a God that provides for your people and protects them. Thank you for holding us safe. It is sad to see so many choosing a different path and following different ways. You are to be praised and glorified and I do that. Thank you for going into battle for Israel and help me to always trust in You for everything. 

Note: If you are interested in other studies/devotions, check out my index of Bible Study's.

Joshua 10:1-15 - The Sun Stands Still

Joshua 10:1-15

Adoni-zedek king of Jerusalem heard that Joshua had captured Ai...and that the inhabitants of Gibeon had made peace with Israel and were within their land, that he feared greatly, because Gibeon was a great city, like one of the royal cities, and because it was greater than Ai, and all its men were mighty. Therefore this king sent word to (4 other) kings to attack Gibeon...and they camped by Gibeon and fought against it.

The men of Gibeon sent word to Joshua...saying, “Do not abandon your servants...and the Lord said to Joshua, “Do not fear them, for I have given them into your hands; not one of them shall stand before you.” So Joshua came upon them suddenly...and slew them...and pursued them...and as they fled...the Lord threw large stones from heaven on them...and they died.

Then Joshua spoke to the Lord...

“O sun, stand still at Gibeon,

And O moon in the valley of Aijalon.”

So the sun stood still, and the moon stopped,

Until the nation avenged themselves of their enemies.

Is it not written in the book of Jashar? And the sun stopped in the middle of the sky and did not hasten to go down for about a whole day. There was no day like that before it or after it, when the Lord listened to the voice of a man; for the Lord fought for Israel (excerpts).

Message: The Sun Stands Still

Time: Joshua "Yahweh saves" led Israel, under God's command, to victorious conquest of the Promised Land. The book spans about 25 years, beginning about 1406 BC. The conquest of Canaan, numerous military campaigns and regathering of the nation are major components. 

What the Lord is Saying: I continue to walk through these passages in Joshua - and the story of the Lord delivering the house of Israel into the land of Canaan, a land He had promised them. Moses had not been successful in taking them here, so Joshua completes that conquest of the Promised Land. In these passages, I notice the Lord speaking and providing the means to conquer situations that look daunting. I think these are miracles (parting waters of Jordan, falling the walls of Jericho) and following these is the people celebrating or commemorating these works of God. 

In this reading today, Adoni-zedek hears that Joshua had captured Ai and so Adoni-zedek, king of Jerusalem, calls his allies together, four neighboring Amorite rulers, to resist Joshua and instead attack Gibeon. Verse 12 speaks of "delivered up the Amorites" and so the Amorites are a people group of Canaan. Some say Canaanites are interchangeable with Amorites, or the Amorites are a people group of Canaan. 

Israel controls about half the land of Canaan. With these kings arriving as a group and now attacking Gibeon, the men of Gibeon send word to Joshua asking for help, stating, "Do not abandon your servants, come quickly." Joshua responds and the Lord promises, "I have given them into your hands." And they were conquered by Joshua and his men with the Lord throwing large stones from heaven on them. With God by their side, they are overcomers. 

And then a miracle occurs whereby the sun stands still for an entire day and does not go down. What occurs here is hard to define. But we know God intervened. 

Summary: Allies King of Jerusalem and Amorite Kings go to Gibeon to attack, but Joshua comes to slay them with stones from heaven and the sun appearing to stand still. 

Promise: God does not leave us alone and continues to fight for us today. 

Prayer: O God, your mercy and your protection for your people, your called one's, is a wonder. Thank you for showing through Your word Your protection of Your people. Thank you for these stories that can encourage me today. That you are with me and continue to fight for your people. Help us to remember this and not be focused on our setbacks. 

Note: If you are interested in other studies/devotions, check out my index of Bible Study's.

Philippians 1:28-30 - Living for Jesus

Philippians 1:28-30

Message: Living for Jesus, Living Like Jesus Part 2

Time: AD 62. One of the 4 prison epistles. 

What the Lord is Saying: This was the sermon yesterday. We showed up late for church, went in and sat against the back wall in 2 seats by ourselves. He was doing the message, making his points. His points were from 28 about the opposition that we face in the world and that it is not a reason for fear, is evidence of an approaching judgment, and is proof someone is a genuine disciple. All good thoughts. And then with 29-30 the idea of Salvation is a gift, Suffering is a privilege and Trials are to be expected. All good thoughts, but to get into it I took the verse and wrote them out myself. 

28 

in no way alarmed by [your] opponents 

    opponents are present and that is a reality, but we are not alarmed by their opposition as it is expected; makes me think that the evil and this world is contrary to the gospel and it is so; we are to keep being    a people of integrity

which is a sign of destruction for them

    their persecution is the sign of their response to the gospel; in the KJV it speaks of leading to their  perdition or their loss or separation from God for all eternity

but of salvation for you, and that, from God 

    let their alarm be to me confirmation of the truth I have and being saved and this salvation is from God; their hostility is a confirmation to me of the gospel  

29

For to you it has been granted for Christ's sake 

    Salvation is for me and persecution; the gospel is for me, on behalf of Christ and what he has done. And it has been granted so it is a privilege; Acts 5:41, Peter and John "So they went on their way from the presence of the Council, rejoicing that they had been considered worthy to suffer shame for His name." 

not only to believe in Him, but also to suffer for His sake. 

    I am not merely a believer. There are many that think the Christian life is about believing, but rather it is about suffering. I suffer for Christ, on behalf of Christ, and with Christ. 

30

experiencing the same conflict which you saw in me

    There is a conflict between believing and suffering; Paul experienced this

and now hear in me.

Summary: It is a privilege to suffer, to join with Christ in His suffering and this clearly shows the separation between those called and those not called. 

Prayer: O God, thank you for your great words of truth and they beauty of these words. And how I am to submit to You and your ways. I see Lord that what I want in faith is sometimes contrary to this. I want everyone to end up in heaven and for there to be just different levels. But help me to not make your truth simply something that I want it to be, but help me to surrender to You and submit to You. I want to glorify You, not me. 

 

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Joshua 9 - Grace for the Gibeonites

Joshua 9

All the kings who were beyond the Jordan...gathered together with one accord to fight with Joshua and with Israel...They went to Joshua to the camp at Gilgal and said to him and to the men of Israel, “We have come from a far country; now therefore, make a covenant with us.”...Joshua made peace with them and made a covenant with them, to let them live...they heard that they were neighbors and that they were living within their land...and the whole congregation grumbled against the leaders...“Why have you deceived us, saying, ‘We are very far from you,’ when you are living within our land?"..."Because...we feared greatly for our lives because of you."...Thus he did to them, and delivered them from the hands of the sons of Israel, and they did not kill them. 

Message: Grace for the Gibeonites

Time: Joshua "Yahweh saves" led Israel, under God's command, to victorious conquest of the Promised Land. The book spans about 25 years, beginning about 1406 BC. The conquest of Canaan, numerous military campaigns and regathering of the nation are major components. 

What the Lord is Saying:

Thus far, my study of Joshua: After Moses' death, the Lord calls Joshua to lead Israel to the land of Canaan, promising to be with them every step of the way. The Lord encourages Joshua to be strong and courageous as he goes across the Jordan toward Canaan, remembering God's law, and being careful to follow it. Joshua commands the people to prepare to cross the Jordan and possess Canaan. The people respond in obedience to his words. Joshua sends spies to Jericho and Rahab hides them, protects them and states her faith and belief in God and wants to be protected in the future from any wrath coming.  The Lord sends the ark of the covenant (His presence) ahead of Israel in crossing the Jordan to Canaan and stills the water of the Jordan to show them His power now and in the future. The Lord asks Joshua to have 12 stones brought from the Jordan to Gilgal for a memorial of God providing his people the means to cross the Jordan. The people of the land of Canaan are amazed at God's provision. The sons of Israel are circumcised and Passover is held for the 3rd time and then the manna ceases to be provided by God. Joshua encounters a man with a sword and realizes he is Lord and this man's servant, captain of the host of the Lord, who resides on holy ground. The Lord provides the fall of Jericho, a city where people do detestable things, sinning against the Lord and with a shout, the walls of Jericho fall. The people of Israel next go to Ai, but here they take in casualties due to one family disobeying God at Jericho and not being obedient to the Lord and ultimately their lives are taken. The Lord leads Joshua on the people back to Ai to conquer it, showing them a way to ambush the people, with the end result of the king of Ai being cursed, hanging on a tree. Joshua leads Israel to build an Altar at the Mount of Ebal, at Shechem as commanded previously, to worship the Lord, renewing our commitment to Him. 

Chapter 9 - Here we have a group of kings that surround the area where Joshua is at now, ready together to fight him. In verse 3, Gibeonites are on the scene. They would like to make a covenant with Joshua. Undoubtedly, they have heard about how the Lord has led Joshua and in the process kings have fallen, towns have been overtaken and the people killed and these people are obviously sensing what might happen to them. Israel had a need to make covenants with people outside of the land of Canaan, but 3 days later it is discovered they are not outside of Canaan but in fact are current neighbors to Israel, "living within their land." Joshua spares them. They had already made an oath to them (verse. 15) so despite the news they would not go back on their words and they would let them live, but they did receive a curse (verse 22). 

Summary: The Gibeonites are spared by Joshua and Israel despite deceiving but Joshua had already made a covenant promise with them. 

Promise: The Israelites were deceived because they did not ask counsel from the Lord (Joshua 9:14). 

Prayer: Lord, help me to be an honest person. Forgive me for my dishonesty and making it out often that I am someone I am not. Thank you for your grace that you show me each day. 

Note: If you are interested in other studies/devotions, check out my index of Bible Study's.

Joshua 8:30-35 - Covenant Renewal on Ebal

Joshua 8:30-35

Then Joshua built an altar to the Lord...just as Moses had commanded...of uncut stones...and they offered burnt offerings....and sacrificed peace offerings, and he wrote there on the stones a copy of the law of Moses...and all Israel....half of them stood in front of Mount Gerizim and half of them in front of Mount Ebal...he read all the words of the law. 

Message: Covenant Renewal on Ebal

Time: Joshua "Yahweh saves" led Israel, under God's command, to victorious conquest of the Promised Land. The book spans about 25 years, beginning about 1406 BC. The conquest of Canaan, numerous military campaigns and regathering of the nation are major components. 

What the Lord is Saying: As expected, after the Lord has led the people to conquer Jericho and Ai, performing a significant work for the Lord, an altar is built to commemorate the event and memorialize this event. Lives had been lost at Ai unfortunately, but now a time of worship was in order. Moses is referenced as the one that directed or commanded this. And they read from the word of the Lord at this event. 

From Tabletalk, "The worship occurred in the valley between Mount Gerizim and Mount Ebal (v. 33). This valley lay twenty miles north of Ai, in the hill country, and the city of Shechem was located there. God appeared to Abram at Shechem centuries earlier, promising to give his descendants the land (Gen. 12:6–7). Jacob later owned land and dwelled near the city of Shechem (33:18–20). God was indeed keeping His promise to give Israel the land of Canaan, for Joshua and the nation stood in the very place pledged to the descendants of the patriarchs.

This event at Mount Ebal was commanded previously in Deuteronomy 27:1-8, "1 Now Moses and the elders of Israel commanded the people, saying, “Keep the whole commandment that I command you today. 2 And on the day you cross over the Jordan to the land that the Lord your God is giving you, you shall set up large stones and plaster them with plaster. 3 And you shall write on them all the words of this law, when you cross over to enter the land that the Lord your God is giving you, a land flowing with milk and honey, as the Lord, the God of your fathers, has promised you. 4 And when you have crossed over the Jordan, you shall set up these stones, concerning which I command you today, on Mount Ebal, and you shall plaster them with plaster. 5 And there you shall build an altar to the Lord your God, an altar of stones. You shall wield no iron tool on them; 6 you shall build an altar to the Lord your God of uncut1 stones. And you shall offer burnt offerings on it to the Lord your God, 7 and you shall sacrifice peace offerings and shall eat there, and you shall rejoice before the Lord your God. 8 And you shall write on the stones all the words of this law very plainly.”

Each Sunday we gather at our churches - to recommit ourselves to the covenant of the Lord, hear the curses for rejecting the Cross, and agreeing with the blessings for obeying it. We are to worship the Lord and be in covenant responsibility toward the Lord always. Each week we commit again to the Lord, our Savior Jesus Christ, trusting Him for eternal life. We think about where we have failed Him and we commit once again to live lives in obedience to Him. 

Summary: Joshua leads Israel to build an Altar at the Mount of Ebal, at Shechem as commanded previously, to worship the Lord, renewing our commitment to Him. 

Promise: All of God’s people—children and adults—should participate in the corporate worship of our God

Prayer: Thank you Lord for reminding me what church is about. It is a time for me each week to gather with other believers and renew my commitment to the Lord. I am to see that You have saved me, that there is a consequence for not committing my life to the Lord and each week I am renewing my covenant before You - to live in a way that honors You. I am reminded of truths and there are many of these truths given to me. At times Lord, I admit feeling overwhelmed by my responsibility to love and honor You. I have trouble grasping it all but keep me centered on your Grace and while I need to remain committed, you shower me with grace and forgiveness and it is you that are working. You began the good work in me and you will complete it. Thank you for living in me and reminding me each week of how you are working. 

Note: If you are interested in other studies/devotions, check out my index of Bible Study's.

Joshua 8:1-29 - The Israelites Conquer Ai

Joshua 8:1-29

Now the Lord said to Joshua, "Do not fear or be dismayed. Take all the people of war with you and arise, go up to Ai; see, I have given into your hand the king of Ai, his people, his city, and his land. (v.1)

Message: The Israelites Conquer Ai

Time: Joshua "Yahweh saves" led Israel, under God's command, to victorious conquest of the Promised Land. The book spans about 25 years, beginning about 1406 BC. The conquest of Canaan, numerous military campaigns and regathering of the nation are major components. 

What the Lord is Saying: Chapter 7 was a little setback in their conquest of Canaan. Because of the sin of Achan and his desire to take from some of the loot that was seized through the falling of Jericho, there were men lost in the battle at Ai. This time then the Lord says to Joshua to take everyone with you to Ai (v.1) and Ai will be like Jericho, taking only its spoil and cattle as plunder (v.2). 30,000 went (v. 3).  They will bring the people out of the city and once that is done will set the city on fire (v.4-8). The people came up and camped on the north side of Ai (v.11). Joshua set some people in front of the city, about 5,000 and the king of Ai saw this, not realizing that there were more on the other side: an ambush (v.12-14). All of Ai pursued those in front leaving the city unguarded (v.15-17). What resulted was a setup or trap of the people of Ai, with Israel killing all of the inhabitants of Ai after setting fire to Ai. All the people of Ai numbered 12,000 (v.18-25). The king of Ai was hung and then threw it to front of the City among stones (v. 16-29). 

The Tabletalk reading today infers several ideas from the king hanging on the tree.

1. It was a sign to the Israelites that God’s curse was on the Canaanites and that the Lord remained determined to expel them from the land, since a body hanged on a tree was cursed by God. 

2. It was a warning to any other Canaanites who might have seen it that they would meet the same fate if they did not leave the land. 

3. It was a reminder to Israel of the severe consequences of resisting the Lord. Persistent, impenitent disobedience leads to death whether or not one is part of God’s covenant people. After all, the Israelite Achan, no less than the king of Ai, was killed for breaking God’s law.

Death is the result of every person. The image of Jesus hung on a tree for us is a reminder now to all people everywhere that death is the outcome of each person. And yet God conquers death if we trust in Him and walk in His ways. We are to be a people trusting in God. 

Summary: The Lord leads Joshua on the people back to Ai to conquer it, showing them a way to ambush the people, with the end result of the king of Ai being cursed, hanging on a tree. 

Promise: The way to have the comfort of what God allows us, is, to keep from what he forbids us. 

Prayer: Lord, I was encouraged by my friend Bobby yesterday as he took what was troubling him before you. Today, what I am struggling with is getting the work before me completed. There are many things before me and I am struggling to get them done, but rather want to focus on what is the immediate or even things that do not matter much. Help me dear God to take the time to write out a plan, to document the path. I need to get things done and I need your strength to get it done. I do not have a good attitude about things. Help me to have better direction in my life. Strengthen me. Show me the path you would have me walk and let me trust You in obedience. 

Note: If you are interested in other studies/devotions, check out my index of Bible Study's.

Joshua 7 - Achan's Sin at Ai

Joshua 7

So the Lord said to Joshua, "Rise up! Why is that you have fallen on your face? Israel has sinned, and they have also transgressed My covenant which I commanded them. And they have been taken some of the things under the ban and have both stolen and deceived. Moreover, they have also put them among their own things. Therefore the sons of Israel cannot stand before their enemies; they turn their backs before their enemies, for they have become accursed. I will not be with you any more unless you destroy the things under the ban from your midst. - (v. 10-12)

Message: Achan's Sin at Ai

Time: Joshua "Yahweh saves" led Israel, under God's command, to victorious conquest of the Promised Land. The book spans about 25 years, beginning about 1406 BC. The conquest of Canaan, numerous military campaigns and regathering of the nation are major components. 

What the Lord is Saying: At Jericho, the Lord God tells Joshua that Jericho will crumble and within the City the goods or treasures of the City will be devoted to the Lord (v. 17), to be burned and only the treasures (bronze, gold, silver, and iron) will be spared and again go into a treasury (v. 19) - thus for the use of the tabernacle. In Chapter 7, it states that Achan from the tribe of Judah took some of the things that were devoted to the Lord, under the ban or accursed (v. 1). Joshua sends spies to the land of Ai (v.2) and they said only to send 3,000 men for the people of Ai are few (v. 3). But the men of Ai struck down 36 of their men (v. 5). Joshua is broken by this and wonders now before the Lord why He has led them to this when they could have stayed near Jordan (v. 6-9). The Lord show Joshua that the sons of Israel sinned and so turned their backs on their enemies (v. 10-12). They are to destroy the items taken under the ban. Achan (family of Zerahites) does not come forward but only admits he has sinned against the Lord (v. 20) after Joshua had found him out. Joshua went and retrieved the items taken and he all of Achan's family is stoned and burned with fire and the "Lord turned from the fierceness of His anger." Sin was dealt with at this place now called the Valley of Achor (v.26). 

The Lord provides direction to his people as to how they are to fight the battle and he does amazing things in the process. But in that process he tells them things they are to do and not to do. This story is similar to even the story of Adam and Eve in the garden. God provides everything they need but tells them to not eat of the tree of garden. They disobey and mankind is cursed. In this situation, not all people are cursed, but only those that commit the offense - Achan but there is also a defeat at Ai that occurs, in the killing of 36 men. The moral seems clear - accept God's providence which includes his directions and stay close to them. I think of the Jewish people and they seem to stay close to God's laws and yet don't accept the Messiah he provides. Christians accept the Messiah and yet many continue to live their own ways. We are to be a people that accepts the gift of God, but also adhere to his rules. 

The Lord did not fail to keep His promises. The people failed to be obedient and failed to keep their promises. 

Summary: The people of Israel next go to Ai, but here they take in casualties due to one family disobeying God at Jericho and not being obedient to the Lord and ultimately their lives are taken. 

Promise: Our private sins have an impact on others. Be quick to turn from all sin. 

Prayer: Lord, I admit I hide at times in my sin and think that it is only affecting me. But I have seen my anger hurt others and cause lasting problems not only to me but those in my family's path. Obedience to Your ways is what matters and I need to simply live my life in obedience. I am to honor You in all I do. Thank you for your amazing providence and all that You provide for me. Help me God to be good stewards of what You have provided and continue to provide. 

Note: If you are interested in other studies/devotions, check out my index of Bible Study's.

Joshua 6 - The Fall of Jericho

Joshua 6

And it came about at the seventh time, when the priests blew the trumpets, Joshua said to the people, "Shout! For the Lord Has given you the city." - verse 16

Message: The Fall of Jericho

Time: Joshua "Yahweh saves" led Israel, under God's command, to victorious conquest of the Promised Land. The book spans about 25 years, beginning about 1406 BC. The conquest of Canaan, numerous military campaigns and regathering of the nation are major components. 

What the Lord is Saying: This is a hard text to read. The text states that the Lord told Joshua that he and all the men will march around the city once for six days (v.3) and seven priests will carry seven trumpets of rams' horns before the ark (v. 4). Then on the seventh day, all will march around the city seven times, with the priests blowing their trumpets. And then their will be a long blast with the ram's horn and the city wall will fall down (v. 5). Joshua clarified with the people that only on the 7th day are they to shout (v.10). Only Rahab will live or be spared (v. 17). From the city of Jericho, silver, gold, bronze, iron are set aside for the treasury of the Lord (v. 19). They shouted and took the city with the wall coming down (v. 20). Everything in the city was destroyed - man/woman, young/old, ox/sheep/donkey. Rahab and her family were spared (v. 23). Everything else was burned (v. 24). Then an oath was given by Joshua to not rebuild this city (v. 26). 

A city like Jericho was fortified with a large wall around the city as a defense, preventing them from being captured. With gates shut, it would be difficult to penetrate the city. The people of Israel must have thought it to be preposterous that they are to simply walk around the city 6 days one time and they 7 times on the 7th day and the wall would come down. But this is also the God that parted seas. They were given a command and the followed through on it and did as they were told and the wall came down as they were told it would. 

It is hard to read of those people, that they were annihilated. Yet the Canaanites were a people that only at this time were told they would be annihilated. Only for this time. Why? For they practiced detestable things. They were guilty of sin and encouraging others to sin and their ruin was prophetic. Deuteronomy 20:16-18, "Only in the cities of these peoples that the Lord your God is giving you as an inheritance, you shall not leave alive anything that breathes. But you shall utterly destroy them, the Hitite and the Amorite, the Canaanite and the Perizzite, the Hivite and the Jebusite, as the Lord your God has commanded you, in order that they may not teach you to do according to all their detestable things which they have done for their gods, so that you would sin against the Lord your God." Also Leviticus 18 is a warning when the Lord says, "You shall not do what is done in the land of Egypt where you lived, nor are you to do what is done in the land of Canaan where I am bringing you; you shall not walk in their statutes." 

This is a stark reminder that not all people are part of his saved ones. There is wrath to come for the impenitent. Rahab escapes by trusting in God. The goal is for people to be a people of faith, walking with God, trusting Him. 

Summary: The Lord provides the fall of Jericho, a city where people do detestable things, sinning against the Lord and with a shout, the walls of Jericho fall. 

Promise: The Lord will bless us when we fight according to the means He has given us.

Prayer: God, thank you for placing me on your side. There are consequences to people seeking their own way and encouraging others to do detestable things. Help me be a person that shows people the right way to live and to walk according to Your ways as you have intended. Pull the blinders off of people that act in way that does not honor you. Help people to read your word and see from it truth, the truth of who you are. Thank you for showing your power and your providence through these people and continuing to show how you provide for people that you have called. 

Note: If you are interested in other studies/devotions, check out my index of Bible Study's.

Philippians 1:1-27 - The Gospel is Preached

Philippians 1:1-27

Only conduct yourselves in a manner worthy of the gospel of Christ; so that whether I come to and see you or remain absent, I may hear of you that you are standing firm in one spirit, with one mind striving together for the faith of the gospel (verse 27). 

Message: The Gospel is Preached 

Time: AD 62. One of the 4 prison epistles. 

What the Lord is Saying: This was the sermon yesterday at church and I admit, I listened but also spent time studying the entire chapter, wanting to better understand the context and what led up to this verse in 27 that the pastor had said was really a hallmark verse. He made mention that his entire sermon would be on 1 verse. 

I was kind of just overcome by the words in Philippians 1 about this and what Paul was saying. Verse 12, “My circumstances have turned out for the greater progress of the gospel.” Verse 17, “I am appointed for the defense of the gospel.” Verse 18, “Christ is proclaimed.” Verse 20, “Christ shall even now be exalted in my body.” Verse 21, “To live is Christ.” Verse 24, “Yet to remain in the flesh is more necessary for your sake.” Verse 27, “Conduct yourselves in a manner worthy of the gospel of Christ.” — this idea is so central. It is all about the gospel to Paul. And living for Christ is what it is about. I can’t help but think of the elders, the Mormon (LDS) Missionaries I have been speaking with and their focus right from the get-go about church and specifically my need to get to their church. And their central prayer that I am to pray is not about Jesus, but about the Mormon church and the Book of Mormon and believing in Joseph Smith. Why this extreme focus on Joseph Smith? Why not a focus on Jesus instead and the gospel. Just that idea.  

But looking at this also makes me think about the gospel, that for this text is assumed. It is expected that the reader know what the gospel is exactly. Philippians is AD 62 and Paul is in prison. I Corinthians 15 (AD 56), “I make known to you the gospel preached…received…you stand…you are saved.” “Christ died for our sins according to the Scriptures, and that He was buried, and that He was raised on the third day according to the Scriptures.” 

Each of the gospels show Jesus’ life, his ministry, his death and his resurrection. And each are titled, the Gospel According to…. His entire life - living, death, burial and resurrection - is the gospel. And this is the message that Paul says we are to preach but also our lives are to be lived proclaiming...always. 

Prayer: Lord, remind me today that my living daily is to live worthy of the gospel of Christ. Help me to be focused on the gospel of Christ. We are here for the gospel of Christ. Christ is to be proclaimed. Lord, you shall even now be exalted in my body. I want to live Christ. This is why I live. This is the reason I conduct my life. What is the gospel? It is the good news that Jesus saves, that Jesus loves me and gave me new life in Him. 

Note: If you are interested in other studies/devotions, check out my index of Bible Study's.

Joshua 5:13-15 - Joshua Meets the Commander of God's Army

Joshua 5:13-15

13 Now it came about when Joshua was by Jericho, that he lifted up his eyes and looked, and behold, a man was standing opposite him with his sword drawn in his hand, and Joshua went to him and said to him, “Are you for us or for our adversaries?” 14 He said, “No; rather I indeed come now as captain of the host of the Lord.” And Joshua fell on his face to the earth, and bowed down, and said to him, “What has my lord to say to his servant?” 15 The captain of the Lord’s host said to Joshua, “Remove your sandals from your feet, for the place where you are standing is holy.” And Joshua did so.

Message: Joshua Meets the Commander of God's Army

Time: Joshua "Yahweh saves" led Israel, under God's command, to victorious conquest of the Promised Land. The book spans about 25 years, beginning about 1406 BC. The conquest of Canaan, numerous military campaigns and regathering of the nation are major components. 

What the Lord is Saying: In the previous verses, Joshua and company are at Gilgal, on the eastern side of Jericho and it is there they circumcise the males (not previously circumcised) and then celebrate Passover for the 3rd time. And then provision of manna ceases as it is no longer needed. Now picking up verse 13 Joshua continues to be "by Jericho." Not sure if he has progressed any further past Gilgal. He is still by Jericho. I learn that Jericho was a well-defended city, difficult to capture, but a great holding ground for those forces that could attack Joshua and others, so getting past it would be quite an achievement. 

Joshua states that a man is standing opposite him, with a sword drawn and Joshua said, "Are you for us or for our adversaries?” This is not a vision. Joshua sees a man with a sword drawn to show Joshua that he is speaking to him about what is before him. This man knows. 

The man then testifies that he is the captain of the host of the Lord. "I indeed come now as captain of the host of the Lord.” Joshua recognizes the man and falls on his face and bows down. Verse 15, "Remove your sandals from your feet, for the place where you are standing is holy.”

What is this here? This seems to be a visible manifestation of the Eternal Word of God. Exodus 3:2 at the burning of the bush states, "And the angel of the Lord appeared to him in a blazing fire from the midst of a bush." 3:4, "God called to him from the midst of the bush and said, "Moses, Moses!" And in verse 5 says, "remove your sandals from your feet, for the place on which you are standing is holy ground." The same words are spoken here with Joshua as at the burning of the bush. 

In Numbers 22:31, Balaam had his way blocked to the vineyards by a man standing with a sword, "Then the Lord opened the eyes of Balaam, and he saw the angel of the Lord standing in the way with his drawn sword in his hand; and he bowed all the way to the ground." 

In Judges 13:3, "the angel of the Lord appeared to the woman (Samson's mother, wife of Manoah) and said to her, "Behold now, you are barren and have borne no children, but you shall conceive and give birth to a son." 

Isaiah 63:9, "In all their affliction He was afflicted, And the angel of His presence saved them; In His love and in His mercy He redeemed them, And He lifted them and carried them all the days of old." 

Psalm 34:7, "The angel of the LORD encamps around those who fear Him, and rescues them."

Malachi 3:1, “Behold, I am going to send My messenger, and he will clear the way before Me. And the Lord, whom you seek, will suddenly come to His temple; and the messenger of the covenant, in whom you delight, behold, He is coming,” says the LORD of hosts."

The angel of the Lord is distinct and yet identified with Jehovah. The eternal word of God and the angel of the Lord (Captain of the Heart) are one and the same. And this figure states his function. Joshua sees himself as a servant to the Lord, and so sees this One as having authority. He is a man that stands outside of the house of Israel or any of the adversaries for he states he is not on either one's side. 

This is an interesting set of verses - important in the life of Joshua as he is receiving confirmation repeatedly of the Lord at work - through circumcision, the Passover, manna removed, and ultimately confirmation that the Lord God is there, with him. He has this protection from God. 

Summary: Joshua encounters a man with a sword and realizes he is Lord and this man's servant, captain of the host of the Lord, who resides on holy ground. 

Promise: God will anchor us always with Him and provide us with the assurance that He is with us as we encounter life's challenges. 

Prayer: Lord, I think of Joshua and this man that you called to lead the people of Israel to the promised land, a land you promised to them. There was a goal that you had for them and their was to be joy in the journey, as you led them and were over them continually. You parted waters and then instructed them to signify this with a sign of circumcision, an inner change and then also the Passover, and finally confirmation that You are there. You were with Joshua and you are with me. You are there with me throughout all of life's challenges, providing me peace and as my guide through those situations. At times, I will walk through life, with only a promise, but at certain times You do reveal yourself to me and I thank you for those times, when you show me. And you show others your power, and the peace found in You. 

Note: If you are interested in other studies/devotions, check out my index of Bible Study's.

Joshua 5:1-12 - Israel Obeys the Covenant

Joshua 5:1-12

verse 1, "their hearts melted, and there was no spirit in them."

verse 5, "for all the people that came out were circumcised."

verse 9, "I have rolled away the reproach of Egypt from you."

verse 10, "they observed the Passover."

verse 12, "the manna ceased." 

Message: Israel Obeys the Covenant

Time: Joshua "Yahweh saves" led Israel, under God's command, to victorious conquest of the Promised Land. The book spans about 25 years, beginning about 1406 BC. The conquest of Canaan, numerous military campaigns and regathering of the nation are major components. 

What the Lord is Saying: I get sidetracked often in the morning, working on other things at times, rather than diving back into the Word. I spend time journaling and right now been talking to LDS missionaries and so reading up on that and thinking about what I might say to them. I get up later at times and don't focus myself on the Word. Today, I come back to my study of Joshua, having not really focused on it over the past 5 days. 

I was actually talking to a friend about this the other day and he commented and wondered why this book isn't a bigger deal. There is a lot of focus on Moses, but maybe not as much on Joshua. And yet he took Israel to the promised land (Canaan) after Moses passed away. Like Moses, a sea was divided or parted, this time the Jordan river. I think a common theme so far in these writings is the simple idea that God is with us, at least here God was providing his assurance to his people that he was there. I read that in the devotional and I think that got me off on the tangent of thinking about the lesson given in Sunday School two days ago by Dave Pitcher, a retired doctor in our class that is going to seminary but sounds like he has already gone. He is very astute and passionate about reading this Word and studying it. And maybe I realized for a moment that his message on Sunday, though a little hard to grasp, was basically another testament to that idea - God is with us. That this word of God that we read so casually each day is in fact very robust and clearly a divine book. It is deeper and wider than we could ever imagine. 

I get lost sometimes by our current teacher - Rob and what he gives us sometimes each Sunday - it is a lot of information and it amazes me also how he can glean so much from God's word. Maybe I get overwhelmed each week by all that is said. It is my nature to want to dive into all of it. I so appreciate the community of church and the people in the class and getting to know people and where they are at in their journey. 

Chapter 5 - verse 1 - the kings of the Amorites and kings of Canaanites heard about the Lord drying up the waters of the Jordan for the Israelites and their hearts melted and they had no spirit in them any longer. 

In the Joseph Benson (1748-1821) commentary, on this he says - "This (hearts melted and no spirit in them) did not happen without God’s special providence, that the Israelites might quietly participate of the two great sacraments of their church, circumcision and the Passover, and thereby be prepared for their high and hard work, and for the possession of the holy and promised land; which would have been defiled by an uncircumcised people."

This verse has meaning. People were impacted by this parting of the water. It went beyond simply impacting Israel. The work of God impacted others. They lost all courage. These people groups had terror and shock and amazement - to see what God could do and to see what he has done.  

The Israelites and Joshua have crossed the Jordan. From the last chapter in verse 19 they are camped at Gilgal, on the eastern edge of Jericho. This is confirmed in verse 10 of chapter 5. The Lord speaks to Joshua and tells him to circumcise the sons of Israel that have not yet been circumcised. The comment of "the second time (v.2) " does not mean men are circumcised a second time, but rather there is a second ceremony of circumcision taking place with those young men who were born in the wilderness and then came out of Egypt (v.4). Their fathers and other men had died coming through the wilderness. These are the children God has raised up in their place (v. 7). So they were circumcised and then remained their to be healed from that act. 

And in verse 9, the Lord said to Joshua, "Today I have rolled away the reproach of Egypt from you." Interesting choice of words - "rolled away." That phrase makes me think of Jesus, buried in the tomb, and the stone was rolled away. It seems something similar here in that by commanding the act of circumcision, the Lord is stating his commitment to the sons of Israel, that He is with them. And they are special and distinct. God had restored his covenant or promise to them. There obviously was some doubt and the Egyptians had made the people think at various times there was question of God keeping his promises. 

In Exodus 32:11-14 is the idea from Moses to the Lord that the Lord was somehow mad at his people of Israel. The Egyptians were speaking with the idea that God had left his people, as people were killed in the wilderness though Joshua 5:6 says they "perished because they did not listen to the voice of the Lord." But still there was that feeling that God had left them and so the Lord pleads with God to change His mind. I think this is what it looks like to us at times that God is wallowing back and forth between blessing his people and not blessing them. 

David writes of this in Psalm 106:45, "He remembered His covenant for their sake, and relented according to the greatness of His lovingkindness." This is the way we see it. We say that God remembered, but I don't think God ever forgets but we see it this way about Him. I think what we don't understand is God's entire purpose and so we say words about God so that it makes sense to us. 

Numbers 14:13-16 is another passage that speaks of the Egyptians thinking that God rescued his people but then they were slaughtered in the wilderness and so God could not bring this people into the land he had promised them (v. 16). Thus, there is a reproach by Egypt as spoken in verse 9 of Joshua 5. This passage speaks of that idea that God is over them, going before them in a pillar cloud by day and a pillar fire by night and yet somehow won't be fulfilling His promises. This is what the Egyptians think. 

Deuteronomy 9:25-29 is Moses again falling before the Lord, now for 40 days and nights imploring God to not destroy His people. His destruction was God telling them they would be punished for their sin (Exodus 32:34). If not, the land (of Egypt) will say God could not do this work of blessing His people. 

 God promises a land to His people - and blessings to His descendants (Genesis 12:1-3). And God will always come back to this. Yes, His people will turn their back from him and because of this there will be consequences but He gave a promise to Abraham and that promise will be made. We can bank on this. The Egyptians and many others will think it is not so, but God will be with His people and He will bless them. 

In verse 10 of Joshua 5, after this circumcision came the Passover. This is the 3rd Passover. The first two were kept under Moses—(1) in Egypt, when the Lord delivered them; (2) the second at Sinai, when He had “brought them unto Himself.” (3) The third is on the other side Jordan under Joshua. Circumcision was necessary prior to the Passover. Just as today we say that a person must make a commitment to the Lord, have an inner change of their life prior to partaking of the sacrament, the Lord's Supper. 

Then in verse 12, "the manna ceased." From a search on the web it says, "manna is a food that God provided to the Israelites during their 40-year journey in the desert after leaving Egypt. It was described as a white, powdery substance that fell like hoar frost at night. Exodus 16:31 says that manna tasted like wafers made with honey and was similar in size to a coriander seed." Manna would no longer be needed. It was needed for a time, while Israel was in the wilderness. He provided it but now it is no longer needed. 

Summary: The people of the land of Canaan are amazed at God's provision. The sons of Israel are circumcised and Passover is held for the 3rd time and then the manna ceases to be provided by God. 

Promise: Outward acts of obedience like circumcision and baptism are important, but it doesn't prove genuine faith. Faith must be present and obedience naturally follows. 

Prayer: Lord, it has taken me some time to read through this text. I do other things at times, but after taking time to really study it, I am amazed at its teaching and how you provided for the people of Israel and you kept your promises. Lord, your Word confirms that You are sovereign. You are in charge. And you are leading your people to promised lands, blessing people in the process. Lord, it seems throughout scripture and these lessons You are doing things and speaking to people and providing yourself and we are questioning at times, choosing our own solutions to situations rather than submitting to You. And You continue to show that you are real, like with Israel and the parting of waters and we can celebrate this and respond with obedience while You continue us on the journey. On this earth, that journey is to the places you provide for us. Beyond this earth, it is living with you forever. Lord, help me to keep trusting in You and believing in You and following Your ways, looking for opportunities to come alongside others and help them understand what you show me through Your word. I am a witness and it is good to be a witness and talk to others along the way. Many don't believe this and many others have different ways to You. Keep me close to You and Your word and thank You Spirit for continuing to teach me, I believe in Your ways. 

Note: If you are interested in other studies/devotions, check out my index of Bible Study's.

Joshua 4 - Memorial Stones

Joshua 4

23 For the Lord your God dried up the waters of the Jordan before you until you had crossed, just as the Lord your God had done to the Red Sea, which He dried up before us until we had crossed; 24 that all the peoples of the earth may know that the hand of the Lord is mighty, so that you may fear the Lord your God forever.

Message: Memorial Stones

Time: Joshua "Yahweh saves" led Israel, under God's command, to victorious conquest of the Promised Land. The book spans about 25 years, beginning about 1406 BC. The conquest of Canaan, numerous military campaigns and regathering of the nation are major components. 

What the Lord is Saying: 

Ch. 4 - In the last chapter God provides a miracle of sorts, doing something only he can do, stilling the water of the Jordan as Israel is moving from it to the other side on their way to the promised land of Canaan. The Ark of the Covenant preceded the people and the stilling of the water occurred when a man from each of the 12 tribes of Israel stood in the water. 

Ch. 5 - Take 12 stones from the middle of the Jordan and lay down at the place where you are lodging. Joshua called the 12 men from the tribes. The 12 stones will represent a memorial to the sons of Israel forever - signifying the work that God has done in taking the people through the Jordan. They camped at Gilgal. 

The stones are a memorial and setup to signify that the Lord has provided. His presence was with the people the entire time. This is an event that occurred 3600 years ago. We need these signs to remind us of God's mighty acts. Baptism and the Lord's Supper are often signs as well of what God has done in our lives. We need to keep doing these reminders. 

Summary: The Lord asks Joshua to have 12 stones brought from the Jordan to Gilgal for a memorial of God providing his people the means to cross the Jordan. 

Promise: God has done great things in the past for His people and this encourages us to things he will do today for us. 

Prayer: Lord, I need to remember better the things you have done in my life. I am thankful for your hand of providence. Thank you for your great love and providing peace that surpasses all understanding. You are a great God and have done great things and you will continue to do great things. 

Note: If you are interested in other studies/devotions, check out my index of Bible Study's.

Joshua 3 - Israel Crosses the Jordan River

Joshua 3

And the priests who carried the ark of the covenant of the Lord stood firm on dry ground in the middle of the Jordan while all Israel crossed on dry ground, until all the nation had finished crossing the Jordan (v.17)

Message: Israel Crosses the Jordan River

Time: Joshua "Yahweh saves" led Israel, under God's command, to victorious conquest of the Promised Land. The book spans about 25 years, beginning about 1406 BC. The conquest of Canaan, numerous military campaigns and regathering of the nation are major components. 

What the Lord is Saying: 

Ch. 1 - Moses has died and now his assistant Joshua has been called by the Lord to lead the nation of Israel across the Jordan and into Canaan. The Lord calls Joshua to be strong and courageous and confirms He will be with him. He is to be careful to do according to the Law. Joshua passed on this promise to the people of Israel and they respond that they will obey Joshua as they know the Lord God is with him. 

Ch. 2 - Joshua sends out two spies to Jericho and Rahab, the harlot, provides them shelter and hides them from the authorities of Jericho. There is fear from the Canaanites of the Israelites. Rahab knows the Lord has given Israel the land of Canaan. She hides the spies and a promise is given to her that she and her family will be protected by tying a cord of scarlet thread in the window. 

Ch. 3 - Joshua and sons of Israel went to the Jordan to lodge there for 3 days before crossing – upon seeing the Ark of the covenant carried by the Levitical priests then they shall follow it, keeping a distance of 2,000 cubits. The Lord promises to exalt Joshua and promises to still the waters of the Jordan as the ark goes across it. Take 12 men, each from a tribe of Israel, stand in the waters of the Jordan and it will be stilled. And all the nation crossed the Jordan, again on dry ground. 

Additional thoughts - The ark of the covenant normally was carried by non-priestly Levites (sons of Kohath). The ark was the presence of God as it says in Exodus 25:22, it is there that God will meet with his people. Thus, God would be going before them, leading them as they crossed the Jordan and came into the land of Canaan, the land that was indeed promised by God for them. And God would also show his power to the people, similar to when they crossed the Red Sea. Once the priests carrying the ark stood in the water, the water stopped and the people crossed over on dry land. Also, 2,000 cubits is about 3,000 feet or 0.57 of a mile and is also the distance that Jews are allowed to travel on Sabbath days. It is also the distance from the Mount of Olives to Jerusalem. 

What I learn and apply - God communicates truths through Joshua about what He will do but then He also shows us through examples in our lives that He has power and He is in control. He demonstrates His power to us. H reminds us He is present. He achieved something here that only he could have done, but he took them through an obstacle in life. Surely they would know the power of God to rescue them in the future. 

Summary: The Lord sends the ark of the covenant (His presence) ahead of Israel in crossing the Jordan to Canaan and stills the water of the Jordan to show them His power now and in the future. 

Promise: God begins and ends our salvation - parting the red sea, but then also stilling the water of the Jordan to take us to our promised land. He is faithful.

Prayer: Lord, you are faithful. You give me promises and You come through. I can trust in You that You will do what You say. You led Israel through the Jordan into the land you had promised to them. And you will lead me through the storms and trials of life that are present and you will bring me home to heaven. Thank You for the peace that is only found in You. Help me to be one that helps others see the peace of You. 

Note: If you are interested in other studies/devotions, check out my index of Bible Study's.

Joshua 2 - Rahab Trusts the God of Israel

Joshua 2:11 - When we heard it, our hearts melted and no courage remained in any man any longer because of you; for the Lord your God, He is God in heaven above and on earth beneath.

Message: Rahab Trusts the God of Israel

Time: Joshua "Yahweh saves" led Israel, under God's command, to victorious conquest of the Promised Land. The book spans about 25 years, beginning about 1406 BC. The conquest of Canaan, numerous military campaigns and regathering of the nation are major components. 

What the Lord is Saying: Chapter 1 - After Moses' death, God calls Joshua to lead Israel across Jordan, to the promised land of Canaan, a gift from God - God will be with him and them - be strong and courageous - be careful to do God's law - prepares Israel to enter Canaan - the people confirm their obedience and following of Jordan. 

Now I move into Chapter 2 - Joshua sends spies to view the land, especially Jericho and they lodged with Rahab, the harlot - the king of Jericho speaks to Rahab to have her surrender these men - she states she does not know where they are - she told leaders they had left but actually she brought them to her roof - she knows the Lord has given Israel this land - heard about drying up of Red Sea - and heard about destroying Sihon and Og - God is God to heaven above and on earth beneath - hopes to be dealt kindly and father spared and household - the men promise her safety - but swear her to secrecy - her household only will be spared - provided a sign by tying a cord of scarlet - they remained in the hill country 3 days waiting for pursuers of them to flee and then returned to Joshua telling him that the land is in their hands. 

God promises the land to Israel and yet Joshua is still careful, sending spies to check things out. We are to be wise in our action even as God promises. Rahab's home might have been more of a type of private inn. Sort of like the western saloon where people come to get away but also find women waiting to take care of them along their journey. 

Rahab does lie to protect these spies from the opposition and in turn there seems to be a justification in this rare sense to the sin of lying. The focus of this chapter though seems to be that Rahab places her faith and trust in God. She knows God is on the throne and wants to be protected, her and her household. She has heard of his great acts. Rahab sought refuge in the Lord. And because she bowed to Him, she would be spared. She knew that Israel was coming and probably thought her area would be pillaged and so she wants to be protected. 

Rahab is someone that placed her faith in God. 

Summary: Joshua sends spies to Jericho and Rahab hides them, protects them and states her faith and belief in God and wants to be protected in the future from any wrath coming.   

Promise: I am to run to God in faith, like Rahab did, daily turn from sin and believe in the Lord Jesus Christ. 

Prayer: Lord, I am to be a person like Rahab that puts my faith and trust in You. I hear of stories of how you have worked and those stories encourage me. I am encouraged by the work that you have done in others lives and this strengthens my faith. Protect me from the wrath that is to come. Wrath is a real thing and sin is serious. What matters is you protect your called ones. Thank you God for being in control and being over all. Thank you for theses words and helping me understand them. 

Note: If you are interested in other studies/devotions, check out my index of Bible Study's.

Joshua 1:10-18 - Israel Accepts Joshua's Command

Joshua 1:10-18

10 Then Joshua commanded the officers of the people, saying, 11 “Pass through the midst of the camp and command the people, saying, ‘Prepare provisions for yourselves, for within three days you are to cross this Jordan, to go in to possess the land which the Lord your God is giving you, to possess it.’”

12 To the Reubenites and to the Gadites and to the half-tribe of Manasseh, Joshua said, 13 “Remember the word which Moses the servant of the Lord commanded you, saying, ‘The Lord your God gives you rest and will give you this land.’ 14 Your wives, your little ones, and your cattle shall remain in the land which Moses gave you beyond the Jordan, but you shall cross before your brothers in battle array, all your valiant warriors, and shall help them, 15 until the Lord gives your brothers rest, as He gives you, and they also possess the land which the Lord your God is giving them. Then you shall return to your own land, and possess that which Moses the servant of the Lord gave you beyond the Jordan toward the sunrise.”

16 They answered Joshua, saying, “All that you have commanded us we will do, and wherever you send us we will go. 17 Just as we obeyed Moses in all things, so we will obey you; only may the Lord your God be with you as He was with Moses. 18 Anyone who rebels against your command and does not obey your words in all that you command him, shall be put to death; only be strong and courageous.”

Message: Israel Accepts Joshua's Commands

Time: Joshua "Yahweh saves" led Israel, under God's command, to victorious conquest of the Promised Land. The book spans about 25 years, beginning about 1406 BC. The conquest of Canaan, numerous military campaigns and regathering of the nation are major components. 

What the Lord is Saying: After Joshua has received words of encouragement from the Lord to be strong and courageous and to know that the Lord is with him, he gives charge to the officers of the people to speak to the people and prepare them to cross the Jordan in 3 days time. 

Joshua speaks to those of the 12 tribes, but gives words first to convey that the land has been given to them and so it is there's. "Prepare yourselves...to go in to possess the land." The land is given to them by the Lord. But he then later also tells them they need to prepare for a battle: "you shall cross before your brothers in battle array." 

After Joshua gives them the charge, they respond. People did not and do not always respond in obedience and it is necessary and needed to explain when they do. "All that you have commanded us we will do." It is also interesting to me that they state, "Just as we obeyed Moses in all things" when actually I remember they did not always obey Moses. More recently, there was obedience to Moses and so perhaps these people are referring to themselves only and their recent obedience and yet previous generations had not been as obedient. 

Summary: Joshua commands the people to prepare to cross the Jordan and possess Canaan. The people respond in obedience to his words. 

Promise: We are to be subject to the leaders God has called and support them in their work. 

Prayer: God, you have given me leaders and I need to obey them. I admit, I have not always. I have questioned often. Give me discernment always in the right way to go, in upholding your truths. Thank you your great love and giving the example of Joshua and those that were obedient to His words. 

Note: If you are interested in other studies/devotions, check out my index of Bible Study's.

Joshua 1:6-9 - Strength and Courage

Joshua 1:6-9

6 Be strong and courageous, for you shall give this people possession of the land which I swore to their fathers to give them. 7 Only be strong and very courageous; be careful to do according to all the law which Moses My servant commanded you; do not turn from it to the right or to the left, so that you may have success wherever you go. 8 This book of the law shall not depart from your mouth, but you shall meditate on it day and night, so that you may be careful to do according to all that is written in it; for then you will make your way prosperous, and then you will have success. 9 Have I not commanded you? Be strong and courageous! Do not tremble or be dismayed, for the Lord your God is with you wherever you go.”

Message: Strength and Courage

Time: Joshua "Yahweh saves" led Israel, under God's command, to victorious conquest of the Promised Land. The book spans about 25 years, beginning about 1406 BC. The conquest of Canaan, numerous military campaigns and regathering of the nation are major components. 

What the Lord is Saying: After the death of Moses, God calls his assistant, Joshua to lead the nation of Israel to Canaan. In verse 2 the Lord calls Joshua to cross the Jordan, ultimately defeating and driving out the people of Canaan from their land. No small task. Israel was outnumbered. Previously, the people had question of this occurring. They lacked faith, seeing the obstacles before them. In the previous lesson he receives the promise that God will be with him. This should be all the comfort that one needs. But alas we also need encouraging words and reminders that God will be with us through thick and thin. 

After hearing that God would be with him, we get the words from the Lord to Joshua 'be strong and courageous.' Simple words but meaningful words that bring encouragement to many today, even me. I think of the large tasks before me often. My work and its long list of things to do simply continues to grow and grow. Even my personal time has books I'd like to read through and I seem to add more books to read so easily. And yet struggle to get through them, but enjoy it when I do. Of late, my stomach has been a problem as I have not been very regular in the bathroom. It feels like all of life, from sun up to sun down has burdens, obstacles, things I need to do and get through or would like to do. Maybe that is good and normal. Maybe it is what I have laid out before me and like, to always be achieving something. Michael W. Smith penned a song from his first release of this same title, 'So be Strong and Courageous.' I often think of it when I hear this admonition and sing it to myself. Good words to hear and be reminded of in life. 

And yet this isn't simply a 'believe in yourself' sort of creed, but it is words God gives following Him saying He will be with Joshua. Then following it are other words that go alongside the idea of being strong and courageous. Joshua is to remember the words of Moses that were commanded, more specifically 'the law.' 

"....be careful to do according to all the law which Moses My servant commanded you."

"This book of the law shall not depart from your mouth."

"you shall meditate on it day and night."

"...be careful to do according to all that is written in it..."

"Be strong and courageous! Do not tremble or be dismayed, for the Lord your God is with you wherever you go."

Simple reminders here continue. Meditate on God's law. Be careful to do it. There is no reason to fear for the Lord God is with you wherever you go. 

Summary: The Lord encourages Joshua to be strong and courageous as he goes across the Jordan toward Canaan, remembering God's law, and being careful to follow it. 

Promise: Being obedience to God's word does not guarantee nothing bad will happen to a person, but those who obey God's word will finally win and we are to live lives in faithful obedience to God. 

Prayer: Thank you God for your words of encouragement you offer to Joshua and I believe you offer to me as well. I need to stay close to your words God always trusting in the Law of God which you have given me follow and obey. Keep me meditating on it and living by it. It is always relevant to my life, but no matter what I need to uphold it and so teach me to be guided by it always and help me to encourage this in others as well. I pray my family would be guided by it and trust in it always. Let it move in people's lives and change them. 

Note: If you are interested in other studies/devotions, check out my index of Bible Study's.

Joshua 1:1-5 - Joshua Commissioned to Lead Israel

Joshua 1:1-5

1 Now it came about after the death of Moses the servant of the Lord, that the Lord spoke to Joshua the son of Nun, Moses’ servant, saying, 2 “Moses My servant is dead; now therefore arise, cross this Jordan, you and all this people, to the land which I am giving to them, to the sons of Israel. 3 Every place on which the sole of your foot treads, I have given it to you, just as I spoke to Moses. 4 From the wilderness and this Lebanon, even as far as the great river, the river Euphrates, all the land of the Hittites, and as far as the Great Sea toward the setting of the sun will be your territory. 5 No man will be able to stand before you all the days of your life. Just as I have been with Moses, I will be with you; I will not fail you or forsake you.

Message: Joshua Commissioned to Lead Israel

Time: Joshua "Yahweh saves" led Israel, under God's command, to victorious conquest of the Promised Land. The book spans about 25 years, beginning about 1406 BC. The conquest of Canaan, numerous military campaigns and regathering of the nation are major components. 

What the Lord is Saying: Moses dies and the Lord now speaks to Joshua to cross the Jordan, himself and all the sons of Israel to the land God is providing them. God will be with them and will not fail or forsake them. 

God promised Abraham many descendants (Genesis 12:1-3) and the nation of Israel began or took root following God rescuing the children of Israel from slavery. This occurred about 1447 BC. God did promise the people the land of Canaan, but the people had to follow through on that promise and walk forth, going to the land. Unfortunately, they lacked faith that God would overpower the Canaanite forces. Only Caleb the son of Jephunneh and Joshua the son of Nun believed. 

Moses was halted from entering the promised land because of his sin. This is chronicled in Numbers 20:1-13. At this time, the people were camped in Kadesh, the wilderness of Zin and there at the camp they lacked water, thus unable to produce fruit or grain. Moses and Aaron go to the tabernacle and speak to God about this and God tells them to speak to a rock to produce water. Moses responds by using his staff to hit a rock. Water gushes out. But the Lord states he is displeased with Moses and prevents Moses from going any further. It is not clear here what displeased the Lord, but His words are clear that Moses will not go further. 

In Numbers 27 verse 14 the Lord recalls this event in Numbers 20. And after Moses requests God to appoint a man to lead this group, the Lord appoints Joshua, with Moses commissioning him by laying his hands on him. 

Now it is Joshua and the commission or call from God to lead Israel to Canaan has been reinstated. He and the people are camped in the plains of Moab, just northeast of the Dead Sea and east of the city of Jericho on the other side of the Jordan River. 

God gives a gift of land to Canaan. They don't do anything to earn it, but they simply must walk into it and not be afraid, trusting God. In accomplishing the land, they must believe that God will provide it, in his way. 

In looking at this text there is striking language of God's promises. He says, "the land which I am giving to them" so it is clearly a gift. And then he also says that every step we take is a gift from him, "Every place on which the sole of your foot treads, I have given it to you." That is great language and a great promise. Every step we take is a gift from God, granted by God. He gives us a promise, but also establishes our steps to that promise. All we must do is walk in them. And in verse 4 he pinpoints or spells out in even more detail all the places where he will walk with them. God will be with them. He will be their guide. "No man will be able to stand before you all the days of your life." God is with us. And his promise to be with us remains. As recorded in Matthew 28:20, "lo, I am with you always, even to the end of the age.” And here in verse 5 the Lord says, "I will be with you; I will not fail you or forsake you." These are indeed exciting truths. God is with us. He was with Israel and He continues to be with us - from dispensation to dispensation or time period to time period, he remains the same. 

Summary: After Moses' death, the Lord calls Joshua to lead Israel to the land of Canaan, promising to be with them every step of the way. 

Promise: God is with us, every step of the way; always. 

Prayer: O thank you God for your words of comfort, spoken to Joshua over 3,400 years ago and to Matthew 2,000 years ago and because of that I can know the promise that You will be with me as well, every step of my life, guiding me, directing me, taking me to a future glory, resurrected with You in paradise. You are near, always near to me. You are present, always present. Thank you for these stories that are real and continue to speak to people like me. You are the great one. You hold me near. You are the God of all and God of glory and I worship you. 

Note: If you are interested in other studies/devotions, check out my index of Bible Study's.

Deuteronomy 4:31 - The History of Israel

Deuteronomy 4:31

For the Lord your God is a compassionate God; He will not fail you nor destroy you nor forget the covenant with your fathers which He swore to them.

Message: The History of Israel

Time: Deuteronomy was written around 1406 BC, at the end of the forty years of wandering endured by the nation of Israel. Deuteronomy restates God’s commands originally given to the Israelites some forty years earlier in Exodus and Leviticus. Deuteronomy asserts Moses as author (1:1; 4:44; 29:1). 

What the Lord is Saying: Christianity needs its history. Its history defines its present. Tabletalk referred me to I Corinthians 10:11 -- Now these things happened to them as an example, and they were written for our instruction, upon whom the ends of the ages have come -- and I also saw the words of Matthew Henry (1662-1714) that he wrote about the first 14 verses. 

I Corinthians 10:1-14 

(Paul says:) Let me show you the harm of being in communion with idolaters. Think of the Jewish nation. Through a miracle they were led through the Red Sea, where the pursuing Egyptians were drowned. It was to them a typical baptism (burying the old life or bad ways of the Egyptians and birthing new life or freedom coming through the red sea). And then provided manna, a type of Christ, to be fed on, living forever from bread of heaven. Christ is our rock - in which we drink the water from the stream provided, we are refreshed. Yet they got caught up in simply sitting on their privilege or even their profession of truth. This is an example for you and I, don't crave what they craved. Remember their sins as an example of what not to do. God gives us the command and we are to follow it. Some were destroyed by the serpent for not fearing God. Nothing in this Scripture has been written in vain. We are to be wise in it and learn from it. Others have fallen and so may we. Our security against sin is to not trust ourselves. God has not promised to keep us from falling, if we do not look to ourselves. To this word of caution, a word of comfort is added. Others have like burdens, and like temptations: what they bear up under, and break through, we may also. God is wise as well as faithful, and will make our burdens according to our strength. He knows what we can bear. He will make a way to escape; he will deliver either from the trial itself, or at least the mischief of it. We have full encouragement to flee from sin, and to be faithful to God. We cannot fall by temptation, if we cleave fast to him. Whether the world smiles or frowns, it is an enemy; but believers shall be strengthened to overcome it, with all its terrors and enticements. The fear of the Lord, put into their hearts, will be the great means of safety.

What a great reminder this is of the words of Scripture and how they have been written over and over to teach us, to provide us examples, to remind us of the importance of following and trusting God. That Israel and how they lived can impact us today. That God is faithful and cleaving and clinging to him is what matters most. We are not to rest is our own accomplishment but instead rest in the Lord. 

Today's passage, Deuteronomy 4:31, I notice is translated "the Lord your God is a compassionate God" or "The Lord your God is a merciful God." Compassionate or merciful. Both ideas are focused on God toward others - one expressing concern and the other relief. God remembers His people - all of them, whether Jew or Greek. And throughout history we can see and watch His dealings with His people and learn from those interactions. He makes promises to His people. They are obedient but also not. He disciplines them for their sin, punishes them. Like them, we are His people of faith and so we can learn from their interactions and hopefully learn how to live in a more honoring way towards God. 

And in this verse today is the reminder that God is with us: the promise that (1) he will not fail me; (2) he will not destroy me; (3) he will not forget me. God made a covenant, a promise and He will not forget. 

As I learn from these stories and situations how to better live, I can always know that God will be with me and will not forget me. 

Summary: God is with us and will always be with us and I/we can learn from all of the interactions He has with His people throughout time. 

Promise: The Lord has promised always to be with His people. 

Prayer: Lord, thank you for history and the reminder today that You created it all and throughout history you have been with your people, keeping them close to You and through all of those interactions, good and bad, today, now, I can learn from them still and can learn how I am to live and bear fruit in this world. You are sovereign over all. You are working. Keep me focused on You, not ever sitting on what You have provided, but being active, no matter my situation. You are in me. You are with me. And you are always capable of carrying me through all of life's situations. Thank you God. Thank you Lord. Thank you Savior. Don't let me forget. I need to remember and remember that all that I do is by your strength. 

Note: If you are interested in other studies/devotions, check out my index of Bible Study's.

TABLETALK - December 2018

I continue in my daily studies to be guided by Tabletalk magazine. 2018 was a study on the Gospel of John and its straightforward presentation of the person and work of Christ, the work of the Holy Spirit, and other doctrines. 

• January 2018 (July 4, 2023 - July 23, 2023) John 1:1-2:22 - The preexistence of Christ, the ministry of John the Baptist and the person of Christ. 
• February 2018 (July 24, 2023 - August 10, 2023) John 2:23 - 3:36 - Regeneration and our need to believe in Christ for Salvation
• March 2018 (August 13, 2023 - September 30, 2023) John 4:1 - 5:29 - Christ is the incarnate Son of God
• April 2018 (October 1, 2023 - November 6, 2023) John 5:30 - John 7:36 - Jesus is as necessary to our souls as food is to our body; Jesus teaches in the temple during the Feast of Booths
• May 2018 (November 7, 2023 - December 22, 2023) John 7:37 - John 9:41 - Jesus experiences opposition and there is a sin-motivated resistance people have toward being enslaved to sin.
• June 2018 (December 23, 2023 - January 21, 2024) John 10:1 - 11:57 - Jesus as our shepherd will lay down His life for His sheep, but some won't hear Him. Jesus raises Lazarus from the dead in order to impact the faith of the disciples. 
• July 2018 (January 22, 2024 - March 14, 2024) John 12:1 - 13:20 - Jesus as Savior and Judge; salvation comes to Jesus' disciples and the judgment comes to all who reject Him. 
• August 2018 (March 15, 2024 - April 12, 2024) John 13:21 - John 14:31 - Warnings Jesus gave on the night of the Last Supper and the blessed promise of the Holy Spirit. 
• September 2018 (April 13, 2024 - May 9, 2024) John 15:1 - John 16:24 - Continuing Christ's Farewell Discourse and the meaning of abiding in Christ, the analogy of the vine and conviction/guidance of the Holy Spirit
• October 2018 (May 10, 2024 - July 19, 2024) John 16:25 - John 17:26 - Seeing Christ as our Intercessor, even on the night He was betrayed, Jesus will pray for His disciple; High Priestly Prayer
• November 2018 (July 20, 2024 - September 10, 2024) John 18:1 - John 19:37 - Consider Jesus' trial before Pilate and Jewish authorities and His crucifixion. 
• December 2018 (September 11, 2024 - October 24, 2024) John 19:38 - John 21:25 - The resurrection of Jesus and His encounters with the disciples afterward.

John 19

Joseph and Nicodemus (John 19:38-42) - Jesus has passed away; Joseph and Nicodemus come forward now to bury Jesus. Once ashamed and hiding from his arrest, now they take his burial serious and with honor. 

John 20

Mary Magdalene Finds the Empty Tomb (John 20:1-2) - Mary goes to the tomb (with others) and does not find Jesus there and concludes more than one person has taken him. 

Peter and John at the Tomb of Jesus (John 20:3-10) - Peter and John run to the tomb to see what Mary had stated -- that Jesus was in fact not present, the linens there though. 

Mary Sees Jesus and the Angels (John 20:11-15) - Mary goes to the tomb and 2 angels are there to comfort her but she does not recognize this or Jesus who asks her a question about her sadness. 

Mary Recognizes the Lord (John 20:16-18) - Mary now sees that Jesus is here, but Jesus makes it clear, He is ascending to the Father and Mary needs to tell others this is happening and the time is now. 

Jesus Appears to His Disciples (John 20:19-22) - Jesus comes to the disciples to bring them peace and sends them forth with the gift of the Holy Spirit. 

Giving and Withholding Forgiveness (John 20:23) - Jesus speaks to the disciples, mentioning that they can forgive or not forgive sin.

Doubting Thomas (John 20:24-29) - Thomas, not with the disciples in the room, states to believe in Jesus, he wants proof and to see not only Jesus but his scars. Jesus appears and Thomas believes.

The Purpose of John's Gospel (John 20:30-31) - John provides us his purpose in this gospel - that people will know Jesus, believe in Him and have life in His name.

John 21

The Disciples Go Fishing (John 21:1-8) - The disciples go on with their lives having not seen Jesus for 7+ days, and fish, but struggle, then Jesus sees them and provides a large catch. And then the disciples recognize Him.

Eating Breakfast with Jesus (John 21:9-14) - The disciples arrive to the land and have fish and bread breakfast with Jesus, at his beckoning. 

Jesus Restores Peter (John 21:15-17) - After earlier Peter denying Jesus three times, to be restored to his place among the disciples, he confessed three times that he would care for Christ's followers. 

Jesus Predicts Peter's Martyrdom (John 21:18-19) - Jesus contrasts the life of Peter from his youthful days to the end of his life, whether he feels life to be certain or not, says that he should follow Him.

Peter Asks about John (John 21:20-24) - Peter asks about the outcome of John and Jesus assures him that his outcome is known and under His control and Peter needs to simply Follow Him.

The Infinite Gospel (John 21:25) - The last verse of John states that much has been written of Jesus but it is not all of what He did, but it is enough to know Him and now live. 

Various Scriptures - The Significance of Peter - Peter reminds us that our hope is Christ, our hope through suffering and difficulties, and we are like stones, firm in our role in Christ and we need to submit to authorities as we trust God to establish authorities to glorify Him. 

The True Israel of God - Lord God, thank you for your deliverance of Israel from Egypt, freeing them from bondage, but more importantly providing them the opportunity to worship You. You are to be worshipped. We are redeemed from bondage to worship You. Jesus, you are the true and greater Israel of God accomplishing what Israel failed to accomplish. You were tempted to worship something other than God alone but God's words sustained You. You are the King and the great Prophet. You suffered on the cross and fulfilled Your role as the greater High Priest and sacrificed Passover Lamb. Your body destroyed, you rose, rising the temple of Your body and becoming our cornerstone. You will return one day and take us to the heavenly Promised Land. 

The Seed of the Woman - God you have a plan to redeem people, to bring them in right relationship to You and in Your Word God; in Genesis, at the beginning, you provide us this information. Today I look at the Lord's interaction with the Serpent as recorded in Genesis 3. Upon sinning, we do not die immediately, but we are spared and things happen: Pain in childbirth occurs. For Eve, Cain was provided as a son and she recognized the Lord provided and yet Cain would kill his brother Abel. Cain appeared to get the upper hand as the devil/Satan often in our world appears to have the upper hand. But God pronounces the curse upon Cain as well, cursed from the ground. Cain went east, farther from God's presence. Cain had a son, Enoch, and built a city naming it after his son. Eventually the 7th generation offspring of Cain was Lamech and later the first person to practice polygamy. Lamech acted as though he were greater than God. The promise had been given by God in Genesis 4:15 that, "whoever kills Cain, vengeance will be taken on him sevenfold.” And Lamech is the 7th generation. After Abel being killed, a replacement son was born to Eve - Seth. And his son, Enosh - and then "people began to call on the name of the Lord. (Genesis 4:26)" Enosh is better than Enoch. This Enosh 7th generation from Seth. Enoch walked with God and did not taste death. Then a new Lamech came from Enosh who would father Noah, a type of Christ, righteous among an adulterous people. With Noah, most of the serpentine line perished, except Ham, son of Noah. God provides salvation fully and finally in the work of Christ. In Christ, I am reconciled to God Himself. 

Abraham's Seed - God made a covenant with Abraham: a seed, a land, and a universal blessing and each finds ultimate significance in the Lord Jesus Christ. God promises Abraham offspring, also Adam and Eve and later David. Abraham will be a father of many nations. The seed promise was Isaac and then Jacob and the nation of Israel, all in the line of Christ. From Israel Christ came according to the flesh and so Israel and Abraham were the means to the messianic promise. The seed is spiritual - more numerous that the stars of heaven or sands of sea. Jesus was a physical descendant. True children have faith. The ultimate seed is Jesus Christ himself. Offspring or seed is singular as Paul, with Jesus as son of David and son of Abraham. Land was a real, geographic territory. Jesus reconciles us to God. Enemies can't stand against this seed being advanced. Christ will build his church and gates of hell will not withstand this. He hung on a tree so the blessing of Abraham, through Christ, might come to the Gentiles. Abraham chosen for his line to the Messiah. 

Judah's Scepter - Genesis 49:10 is the focused verse -- "The scepter shall not depart from Judah, nor the ruler's staff from between his feet, until Shiloh comes, and to him the obedience of the peoples." The Lord promised Abraham that "kings shall come from you" (Genesis 17:6) and also to Jacob/Israel in Genesis 35:11, "kings shall come forth from you." Jacob pronounces or passes this on to his sons (all 12) in Gen. 49, and of note is the blessing of dominion on his son Judah. In verse 8 Jacob says to "Judah, your brothers shall praise you; your hand shall be on the neck of your enemies; your father's sons shall bow down to you;" In verse 9, Judah is depicted as a lion where no one will challenge him. Then, 2 images or symbols of kingship given to Judah: a "scepter" which is a baton or staff representing sovereign authority by the one who holds it. and also a "ruler's staff." These two items are often interchangeable. The staff is stated as being "from between his feet" which is a euphemism for the male's reproductive organ and speaks to Judah's offspring or family line. This dominion and offspring shall be present "until Shiloh comes." Much has been voiced of this phrase and who Shiloh represents. Whoever Shiloh is, he is one that will come or will be the obedience of the peoples -- could be a future one that also possesses the scepter/staff or even a future offspring. In Islam, they credit this to Muhammed. But here the author points us toward Shiloh being the Messiah. How amazing to think these words which were around the time of 1700 BC could be speaking of a future Messiah. 

A Prophet Like Moses - Deuteronomy 18:15, "The Lord your God will raise up for you a prophet like me from among you, from your countrymen, you shall listen to him." Jesus is the prophet from this verse as spoken in the words in Acts. Hebrews 11:1 addresses him as the final spokesperson. 

David's Son

The Messianic King

The Eternal Priest

Of The Virgin's Womb

Prince of Peace

The Stump of Jesse

A Ruler from Bethlehem

The Lord's Shepherd - 

Bless the Lord - Jacob wanted to be blessed and wrestled God until he received that blessing. Lord, I want your favor, unmerited. You chose Abraham, spoke to him and blessed him, choosing him out of the sheer pleasure of Your mysterious will and for Your name's sake. I do not earn salvation, but instead You chose me, blessing me and sanctifying me. I bless you God, by honoring You and esteeming You in my heart and life. I praise You. "Bless the Lord, O my soul, and all that is within me, bless his holy name" (Psalm 103:1). Remind me to Bless You Lord, to honor and esteem You, not partially but with my whole being. 

Joy and Strength - Lord, I can normally be grieved by my sin but you want me to not be grieved but the joy of the Lord is My strength always. Rather than focusing on my sin, I focus instead on what Christ has done for me and what He is doing in me as I follow Him and serve Him. 

The Cradle and the Cross - Thank you God for the things in our life that you use to trigger memories and providence. The ornaments on the Christmas tree remind me of crafts the kids have made, places we have been and times we have had together. As I see the cross, help me to always be reminded of your great love for me in dying for me. Focus me on the cross always and your sacrifice for me. Thank you for your great example and great teaching, but ultimately you God sent Jesus to perfectly fulfill the requirements of the Law, and satisfy God's justice. Jesus bore Christ's wrath on the cross for me and for all you have called. You are my rescue. 

Meek Like Moses

Flee from Sexual Immorality

Making Prayer a Priority

Paying Attention in Worship

Shining Lights by Not Grumbling

A Shadow of Christ