Inspiration

[Judy Harder]

March 13
Read Joshua 1 -- 3

Highlights In Today's Reading:

Moses is dead! Who will God choose to lead this great multitude? Want to know how to have a prosperous and successful life? The key is clearly stated in Chapter One. God can use all who decide to put Him first in their lives. Rahab the harlot decides to be loyal to the One True God, protects the spies, and eventually has the honor of being in the Messianic line! See the miracle as the feet of the priests touch the water. At last, after 40 years, the two million people who were the children of the adults who were delivered from Egypt enter their promised land!
While the Hebrew word "sakal" is translated elsewhere in the King James Bible as wise, wisdom, or prosper, God allowed it to be translated as success only once in the King James Version. Nothing -- no other object, purpose, or plan -- can compare with the Scriptures or share equal recognition with the Word of God in expressing success as He did to Joshua, saying: Only be thou strong and very courageous, that thou mayest observe to do according to all the Law, which Moses My servant commanded thee: turn not from it . . . that thou mayest prosper whithersoever thou goest. This Book of the Law shall not depart out of thy mouth; but thou shalt meditate therein day and night, that thou mayest observe to do according to all that is written therein: for then thou shalt make thy way prosperous, and then thou shalt have good success (in conquering Canaan) (1:7-8).

The key to Joshua's greatness was his obedience to all the Word of God in this unfolding of success. It is no surprise that we read: As the Lord commanded Moses His servant, so did Moses command Joshua, and so did Joshua; he left nothing undone of all that the Lord commanded Moses (11:15). Forty years earlier Joshua and Caleb were the only two of the twelve spies who believed that God would give them success.

Joshua's battles were physical while ours are primarily spiritual. Yet, the same principle of success holds true. We wrestle not against flesh and blood, but against . . . spiritual wickedness in high places (Eph. 6:12). Our battle is not with men, though Satan may use people at times to discourage our efforts to please the Lord.

Just as Joshua was strengthened to be successful by meditating upon the Word of God day and night, so our faith is strengthened and our victory assured as we read and live according to the Sword of the Spirit, which is the Word of God (6:17).

Jesus declared: If ye continue in My Word, then are ye My disciples indeed (John 8:31).

Thought for Today:

Success by the world's standard is vastly different from that of God. The world says: "Gain all you can"; but the Word of God says: Godliness . . . is great gain (I Tim. 6:6).
Christ Revealed:

Through the scarlet line in the window that saved Rahab and her household -- symbolic of the blood of Christ (Josh. 2:21; Heb. 11:31; James 2:25). The blood of Jesus Christ His Son cleanseth us from all sin (I John 1:7).
Word Studies:

1:1 minister =assistant; 1:4 coast =territory, boundary; 1:15 rest =peace; sunrising =East; 1:17 hearkened unto =obeyed; 2:17 blameless =free; swear =promise under oath; 2:19 on our head =our responsibility; 2:20 quit =free; 3:16 Salt Sea =Dead Sea; against =opposite
Prayer Needs:

Pray for Radio Sri Lanka Shortwave Broadcasts to Bangladesh sponsored by Paul & Linda Stalter • Radio Sri Lanka Shortwave Broadcasts sponsored by Mrs. Gwen Hensley and Mr. & Mrs. Melvin Morris • Staff: Karen Hawkins • Government Official: Gov. John Hoeven (ND) • Country: Cuba (11.2 million) on the northern rim of the Caribbean • Major language: Spanish • Strict government surveillance of all true Christian activities • 40% Catholic; 10% Protestant; 2-10% Santeria; 1% Other; 40% None • Prayer Suggestion: Realize that your life is in God's hands, and ask Him to deliver you from all evil (Luke 11:4).
Optional Reading: John 4

Memory Verse for the Week: Matthew 5:12

[Judy Harder]

March 14
Read Joshua 4 -- 6

Highlights In Today's Reading:

Twelve stones are a testimony that the hand of the Lord . . . is mighty (4:20-24). The Israelites enter a new chapter in their lives by celebrating Passover and eating something besides manna (5:9-15). Then the walls come tumbling down (chapter 6)!
Jericho was the first city inside the promised land and God said: The city shall be accursed, even it, and all that are therein, to the Lord: only Rahab the harlot shall live, she and all that are with her in the house, because she hid the messengers that we sent (6:17). The word accursed here means devoted to destruction. God gave Israel the city in order that they might burn it as an offering to Him, so all things dedicated to God for sacrifice must be utterly destroyed. It is important for us to learn that only that which comes from God can satisfy Him.

Just as God required the firstborn and the firstfruits of Israel's harvest, so He required that their first city to be defeated should be dedicated to Him. Therefore, until Jericho was totally devoted to God, the people could not claim the rest of the cities for themselves. That is why Achan's sin of taking some of the loot was of such serious consequence. He took something that belonged to God.

After the accursed thing (6:18; 7:1,11,13,15; 22:20) was settled, Joshua built an altar unto the Lord God of Israel in mount Ebal (8:30).

Following the burnt offerings (8:31), Joshua read all the words of the Law. . . . There was not a word of all that Moses commanded, which Joshua read not before all the congregation of Israel (8:34-35).

First, the sacrifice is made -- symbolic of giving ourselves to God. Then we receive further revelation from His Word.

Just as Israel found that obedience was required to be in right relationship with the Lord, Christians hear Jesus say: If any man come after Me, let him deny himself and take up his cross daily, and follow Me (Luke 9:23). If ye continue in My Word, then are ye My disciples (John 8:31).

Thought for Today:

It is amazing to see the blessings of God when we give our all to Him, but it is devastating to see the results when we take back what we gave.
Christ Portrayed:

As the Captain of the host of the Lord (Josh. 5:14). Christ is the Captain of our salvation (Heb. 2:10).
Word Studies:

4:6 sign =memorial monument; 4:10 hasted =hurried; 4:11 clean passed =finished crossing; 4:14 magnified =exalted; 4:20 pitch =set up; 5:1 their heart melted =they lost their courage; 5:8 whole =healed; 5:11 old corn =produce from previous harvest; unleavened =yeast-free; parched =toasted; 6:1 straitly shut up =carefully barricaded; 6:3 compass =march around; 6:9 rereward =rear guard; 6:19 consecrated =sacred, set apart; 6:23 kindred =relatives; 6:26 adjured them =required an oath of them; 6:27 noised =spread abroad.
Prayer Needs:

Pray for Staff: Ken Sharp • Government Official: Rep. William Jefferson (LA) • Country: Cyprus (754,000) in the Middle East • Major languages: Greek and Turkish • No open evangelism or conversions to Christ • 75% Greek Orthodox; 19% Muslim; 1% Protestant; 1% Roman Catholic • Prayer Suggestion: Pray persistently; you will receive an answer (Luke 11:9-10).
Optional Reading: John 5

Memory Verse for the Week: Matthew 5:12 - Rejoice , and be exceeding glad : for great is your reward in heaven: for so persecuted they the prophets which were before you.

[Judy Harder]

March 15
Read Joshua 7 -- 8

Highlights In Today's Reading:

Sin is severely reprimanded. Israel victoriously enters Canaan under Joshua. Cunning military maneuvers taught to the armies today began here. An altar to the Lord God of Israel is built at which mount? What was read to Israel is very important for us to know.
The Israelites had seen the Lord roll back the waters of the Jordan River and overthrow the mighty walled city of Jericho. But we are saddened to read of their subsequent sin and the humiliation and defeat they suffered in their battle at the smaller city of Ai. The children of Israel committed a trespass in the accursed thing: for Achan . . . took of the accursed thing: and the anger of the Lord was kindled against the children of Israel. And Joshua sent men from Jericho to Ai, which is beside Beth-aven, on the east side of Bethel, and spake unto them, saying, Go up and view the country. And the men went up and viewed Ai. And they returned to Joshua, and said unto him, Let not all the people go up; but let about two or three thousand men go up and smite Ai; and make not all the people to labour thither; for they are but few. So there went up thither of the people about three thousand men: and they fled before the men of Ai (7:1-4).

Joshua had not sought counsel from the Lord before going to battle with Ai; instead, he accepted the advice of his spies and made his own decision. But the Lord Himself was their Captain; He alone can issue orders that guarantee success (5:13-15). This truth is confirmed nine times in the first six chapters of the Book of Joshua as the Bible records how the Lord directed Joshua (Note: 1:1; 3:7; 4:1,8,10,15; 5:2,15; 6:2). Then in Joshua 7:2-5, Joshua and his committee (not the Lord) unanimously decided what action was to be taken, and it resulted in failure.

Instructions had been given as to where Joshua was to get direction from God: He shall stand before Eleazar the priest, who shall ask counsel for him . . . before the Lord (Num. 27:21). It is true that Joshua was not aware of the sin of Achan which brought defeat at Ai. But Joshua should have asked counsel of the Lord before going to battle instead of after the defeat and death of thirty-six people (Josh. 7:5-11).

The people of God are never in greater danger of assuming they no longer need to pray for guidance than when the Lord has just answered prayer or greatly blessed them.

Be careful (anxious) for nothing; but in every thing by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known unto God (Phil. 4:6).

Thought for Today:

It is always a mistake to think that we can hide sin and still have the presence of God. God will not allow us to have victory with unconfessed sin in our lives.
Christ Revealed:

Through the uncut stones at the altar (Josh. 8:31). Daniel saw Christ as a Stone which was not cut by human hands (Dan. 2:34,45). Jesus is our Chief Corner Stone (1 Pet. 2:6-8; Matt. 21:42).
Word Studies:

7:1 anger of the Lord was kindled =fierceness of His anger (7:26); 7:2 view =explore; 7:6 rent =tore; put dust upon their heads = expressed intense sorrow by defiling their heads; 7:9 environ us =surround us; 7:11 dissembled =received; 7:13 sanctify =consecrate, cleanse; 7:18 taken =chosen; 7:26 Achor =trouble; 8:11 pitched =camped; 8:13 liers in wait =concealed ambushers.
Prayer Needs:

Pray for Government Official: Justice Ruth Bader Ginsburg • Country: Czech Republic (10 million) in central Europe • Major languages: Czech and Slovak • Religious freedom • 63% Catholic; 7% Protestant; 4% Eastern Orthodox • Prayer Suggestion: Be specific in your prayers (Luke 18:41-43).
Optional Reading: John 6

Memory Verse for the Week: Matthew 5:16

[Judy Harder]

March 16
Read Joshua 9 -- 10

Highlights In Today's Reading:

Just as all of us tend to be rather gullible when we don't seek the Lord's guidance, the Israelites are deceived by a heathen nation (9:3-5). Years later their past comes back to haunt them (II Sam. 21:1-9). Joshua battles five kings and their armies. He prays for a miracle and receives it (Josh. 10:12-13).
The primary key to all victories of Joshua against the Canaanites is recorded in tomorrow's reading: As the Lord commanded Moses His servant, so did Moses command Joshua, and so did Joshua; he left nothing undone of all that the Lord commanded Moses (11:15). Joshua's swift and victorious battles against Jericho and Ai caused all the kings . . . in the hills, and in the valleys, and in all the coasts of the great sea over against Lebanon . . . (to gather) themselves together, to fight with Joshua and with Israel, with one accord (9:1-2). And the Lord said unto Joshua, Fear them not: for I have delivered them into thine hand (10:.

The secondary key to Joshua's victories is that he and his army didn't relax in their tents expecting the Lord to win their battles, but exercised their faith in the Word of God. Joshua therefore came unto them suddenly, and went up from Gilgal ALL NIGHT (10:9). After a twenty-mile march to Gibeon (10:5-7), Joshua led a surprise attack against the kings of the south at daybreak.

It is clear that the Lord discomfited them (the Canaanites) before Israel (Josh. 10:10) and the Lord cast down great stones from heaven upon them unto Azekah, and they died; they were more which died with hailstones than they whom the children of Israel slew with the sword (10:11).

Joshua, once again, led Israel to victory because God intervened and destroyed a great number of enemies with hailstones. The effort of all the kings in Canaan to oppose and defeat Joshua is an example of the continual conflict between the people of God and the people of the world influenced by Satan.

Such victories in spiritual warfare are won as we, like Joshua, accept by faith, that the God of our Lord Jesus Christ . . . may give unto you the Spirit of wisdom and revelation in the knowledge of Him . . . the exceeding greatness of His power to us-ward who believe, according to the working of His mighty power (in and through us) (Eph. 1:17-19).

Thought for Today:

When we obey the Word of God, He will give us strength for the battle and grant us victory over the evil that wants to control our lives.
Christ Revealed:

As the One through whom we have victory (Josh. 10:25). Thanks be to God, which giveth us the victory through our Lord Jesus Christ (I Cor. 15:57).
Word Studies:

9:1 great sea =Mediterranean Sea; 9:4 wilily =craftily; wine bottles =wineskins; rent =torn; 9:5 clouted =watched; 9:6 league =treaty; 9:9 Name =awesome reputation; 9:15 sware =ratified it with an oath in the Name of God; 9:21 hewers of wood =woodcutters; 9:22 beguiled =deceived; 10:4 smite =conquer; 10:6 Slack not thy hand from =do not abandon; 10:10 discomfited =defeated in battle; 10:13 book of Ja'sher =book of heroes; hasted not =delayed; 10:18 keep =guard; 10:20 fenced =fortified, walled; 10:21 moved his tongue =uttered a word; 10:24 your feet upon the necks = symbol of mastery; 10:26 smote =struck; 10:28 souls =people; 10:40 vale =valley.
Prayer Needs:

Pray for Radio Sri Lanka Shortwave Broadcasts sponsored by Mr. & Mrs. William H. Somers • Staff: Al Joslyn • Government Officials: Rep. Joseph Crowley (NY) and Rep. Ron Kind (WI) • Country: Denmark (5 million) in northern Europe • Major languages: Danish and Faroese • Religious freedom • 92% Protestant; 1% Muslim; .5% Roman Catholic; .5% cults; .1% Jewish • Prayer Suggestion: Watch and pray that you may be worthy to stand before the Lord Jesus Christ (Luke 21:36).
Optional Reading: John 7

Memory Verse for the Week: Matthew 5:16

[Judy Harder]

March 17
Read Joshua 11 -- 13

Highlights In Today's Reading:

In 1:3 the Lord says to Joshua: Every place that the sole of your foot shall tread upon, that have I given unto you, as I said unto Moses. Now, all the Canaanite kings mobilize their armies and unite to defeat Israel. Although God had promised to give them the land, the Israelites had to fight for every foot of it. God makes it possible for us to fulfill His will but our effort is required. Read how Joshua and the Israelites are victorious and win every battle. The key to their victory is the same for us.
Joshua defeated all the Canaanites and executed their kings, but the people within each tribal territory still had to be subdued as God commanded. Now Joshua was old and stricken in years; and the Lord said unto him, Thou art old and stricken in years, and there remaineth yet very much land to be possessed. . . . All the inhabitants . . . will I drive out from before the children of Israel: only divide thou it by lot unto the Israelites for an inheritance (13:1,6).

The word lot occurs about twenty-five times in Joshua. This was not coincidental, for the lot is cast into the lap; but the whole disposing thereof is of the Lord (Prov. 16:33).

God allotted the Israelites the territory that would best meet their physical and spiritual needs. Although the land had been allotted to them, they had to exercise faith and trust the guidance from the Lord to possess the land.

Sadly, some of the tribes failed to drive out their enemies because of their lack of faith (Josh. 15:63; 17:12). Other tribes were overconfident of their ability to control the enemy. Thou shalt make no covenant with them, nor with their gods. They shall not dwell in thy land, lest they make thee sin against Me: for if thou serve their gods, it will surely be a snare unto thee (Ex. 23:32-33).

God had said the idol-worshiping Canaanites were an abomination and were to be destroyed (Deut. 7:1-2). Instead, they put the Canaanites to tribute (made them pay heavy taxes); but did not utterly drive them out (Josh. 17:13).

We are to be controlled by God, obedient to His Word, and, by faith, determined that all evil "giants" of hate, lust, and selfishness within us must be destroyed. Christ will then be in control of our lives.

Casting down imaginations, and every high thing that exalteth itself against the knowledge of God, and bringing into captivity every thought to the obedience of Christ (II Cor. 10:5).

Thought for Today:

The promises of God are more certain than the sun rising in the morning, but we often frustrate His purpose by clouds of doubt and by being disobedient to His Word.
Christ Portrayed:

By Moses the servant of the Lord (Josh. 12:6). Jesus was the Servant of God. Behold My Servant, whom I have chosen (Matt. 12:18).
Word Studies:

11:4 hosts =army; 11:5 were met together =joined forces; 11:6 hough =hamstring; 12:3 Sea of Chinneroth =Sea of Galilee; Sea of the plain, even Salt Sea =Dead Sea; 13:22 soothsayer =diviner, fortune teller.
Prayer Needs:

Pray for Radio Sri Lanka Shortwave Broadcasts sponsored by Mrs. Len Smith • Staff: George Kopchak • Country: Djibouti (447,000) in eastern Africa • Major languages: French and Arabic • Limited religious freedom • 91% Muslim; 7% Roman Catholic; .75% Eastern Orthodox; about 300 Protestants • Prayer Suggestion: Intercede in prayer for others by name (Luke 22:31-32).
Optional Reading: John 8

Memory Verse for the Week: Matthew 5:16

[Judy Harder]

March 18
Read Joshua 14 -- 16

Highlights In Today's Reading:

Caleb gets his mountain (14:6-12). Note his age! As the tribes receive their inheritance notice how precise the boundries are laid out. Can you believe the enemies of God are still determined to force them out of their promised land?
Because of Caleb's faithfulness, God granted him his request for the city and suburbs of Hebron. Although he had to wait 45 years (14:10) before he could inherit his promised territory (Num. 14:24), we find no record that he found fault with God or the people.

At the age of 85 (Josh. 14:10), in childlike faith, Caleb said: Give me this mountain, whereof the Lord spake in that day . . . if so be the Lord will be with me, then I shall be able to drive them out, as the Lord said (14:12).

Hebron therefore became the inheritance of Caleb the son of Jephunneh the Kenezite unto this day, because that he wholly followed the Lord God of Israel (14:14). How obvious was the secret of his greatness!

About 38 years before this, the children of Israel were at the border of Canaan two years after their miraculous deliverance from Egypt. At that time Moses sent 12 men to spy out the land where they all saw giants. Ten of the spies compared the giants to their own weakness, saying: We saw the giants . . . and we were in our own sight as grasshoppers. . . . And all the children of Israel murmured against Moses and against Aaron: and the whole congregation said unto them, Would God that we had died in the land of Egypt! or would God we had died in this wilderness (Num. 13:33; 14:2). But Caleb and Joshua compared the giants to the power of God: And they spake unto all the company of the children of Israel, saying. . . . He will bring us into this land, And give it to us; a land which floweth with milk and honey. Only rebel not ye against the Lord, neither fear ye the people of the land . . . their defence is departed from them, and the Lord is with us: fear them not (14:7-9).

Great men of God seldom possess great talents but, in faith in God and His Word, they do all they can. Some today, like the unbelieving spies, complain and give up when their circumstances look difficult. But God always honors the faith of those who believe in Him and His all-sufficient power.

God is able to make all grace abound toward you; that ye, always having all sufficiency in all things, may abound to every good work (II Cor. 9:.

Thought for Today:

A person is successful when he learns to rely on the Word of God and not on his own abilities.
Christ Portrayed:

By Caleb, who wholly followed the Lord (Josh. 14:8,14). Our Savior said: Lo, I come . . . to do Thy will, O God (Heb. 10:7,9).
Word Studies:

14:4 save =except; suburbs =pasture lands; 14:7 espy out =make a search; 14:8 wholly followed =obeyed wholeheartedly; 14:9 sware =promised under oath; 14:12 fenced =fortified; 14:15 rest =enjoyed peace; 15:6 stone =boundary marker; 15:10 compassed =curved; 15:19 nether =lower; 16:1 fell =went; 16:3 goings out thereof =borders reach to; 16:10 under tribute =as forced laborers.
Prayer Needs:

Pray for Radio Sri Lanka Shortwave Broadcasts to Afghanistan sponsored by Karen J. Staege • Staff: Gina Lesnefsky • Government Official: Rep. Howard Coble (NC) • Country: Dominica (65,000) in the British West Indies • Major languages: English and French patois • Religious freedom • 75% Roman Catholic; 12% Protestant • Prayer Suggestion: Ask that God's will be done in your life (Luke 22:42).
Optional Reading: John 9

Memory Verse for the Week: Matthew 5:16

[Judy Harder]

March 19
Read Joshua 17 -- 19

Highlights In Today's Reading:

At last, most of Canaan is under the control of the Israelites and the Tabernacle is set up in a central location at Shiloh. Today's reading will tell you where and why. As they reap the rewards of the promise given on the other side of the Jordan River the land is divided by lot. But some tribes never claimed all their territory. Why?
Once all the tribes received their inheritance, Joshua, in true humility, asked for a small portion of rough territory within the tribe of Ephraim, the proud and arrogant descendants of Joseph. It was not until they had made an end of dividing the land for inheritance by their coasts (borders), the children of Israel gave an inheritance to Joshua the son of Nun among them: According to the Word of the Lord they gave him the city which he asked, even Timnath-serah (meaning "remaining portion") in Mount Ephraim: and he built the city, and dwelt therein (19:49-50). Joshua had accepted a small obscure territory for his inheritance, but it was close to the Tabernacle located at Shiloh. His inheritance was located about 25 miles north of Jerusalem in the mountains of Ephraim and was the least given to anyone. In contrast, proud people often insist on special rights as seen in the Ephraimites as they asked Joshua for a better and greater territory.

The earthly inheritance of this great leader was unimportant to him. His heart and his life were on far, far more important things. His earthly inheritance was so insignificant that the only other reference made to it in the Bible is as the place of Joshua's grave (24:30; Judg. 2:9). Although Joshua was the greatest among them, he asked for the least. His real reward was the satisfaction of knowing he had obeyed and pleased the Lord.

Perhaps one of the greatest hindrances to a Christian's life is things -- even good things -- that crowd out Christ. But the more our hearts are set on things of eternal value, the less important material possessions become. The fact is, they will soon be left in the hands of others and, eventually, shall pass away (Luke 21:33).

In this Book, there are two spiritual giants: One asked for one of the best and one for the least. Both had their prayers answered and both were great men of faith. More than 40 years before, Caleb said they would conquer the land if the Lord delight in us (Num. 14:. At that time, the majority chose to say: Let us return into Egypt (14:4). Both Joshua and Caleb were mightily used of God because, like Abraham before them, they were fully persuaded that, what He had promised, He was able also to perform (Rom. 4:20-21).

Thought for Today:

When a person understands that this life is a vapor, material possessions lose their luster.
Christ Revealed:

Through Shiloh. The children of Israel assembled together at Shiloh, and set up the Tabernacle (Joshua 18:1). The Tabernacle was located at Shiloh, meaning "peace"; the Tabernacle was where the presence of God dwelt and both the place and the Tabernacle were prophetic of Jesus. These things I have spoken unto you, that in Me ye might have peace (John 16:33).
Word Studies:

17:1 man of war =great soldier; 17:13 waxen strong =grown stronger; 18:4 describe =draw a descriptive map; 18:10 divisions =family groups; 18:12 the goings out thereof =its outer limits; 18:14 west quarter =western side; 18:17 was drawn =extended; the going up =the ascent; stone =marker; 19:14 compasseth =goes around; outgoings =limits; 19:34 sunrising =east.
Prayer Needs:

Pray for Radio Sri Lanka Shortwave Broadcasts in memory of Reverend J.W. & Nancy Enfinger • Bible Pathway Accountant: Joe Sarsfield • Country: Dominican Republic (8 million) in the West Indies, occupying the eastern two-thirds of the island of Hispaniola • Major language: Spanish • Religious freedom • 96% Roman Catholic (many are spiritists); 2% Protestant; 1% Afro-American spiritist • Prayer Suggestion: Pray for a spirit of humility and submission before the Lord (John 3:30-31).
Optional Reading: John 10

Memory Verse for the Week: Matthew 5:16

[Judy Harder]

March 20
Read Joshua 20 -- 21

Highlights In Today's Reading:

The six cities appointed as places of refuge are assigned. The command to support those in the service of the Lord is obeyed by all the tribes (21:44-45).
The Covenant promise of God to Abraham (Deut. 1:8; Lev. 26:42) was certain to be fulfilled. God had given His Word.

When faith in the Word of Almighty God led Abraham to the promised land, this promise was partially fulfilled (Heb. 11:9). However, the real inheritance that God promised Abraham was more than a great Israelite nation in Canaan, but a spiritual nation through Christ (Gen. 12:2-3,7; 13:15-16; 22:18; Gal. 3:16).

The call of God to Abraham meant separation from all earthly ties and securities. The key is revealed by the Apostle Paul, who said: This one thing I do, forgetting those things which are behind, and reaching forth unto those things which are before (Phil. 3:13). Sooner or later the majority will say: Let us return into Egypt (to the things of the world) (Num. 14:4). The fulfillment of the promise was dependent upon Abraham's unconditional obedience, for he went out, not knowing whither he went (Heb 11:. Abraham did more than just believe in the ability of God to provide a country -- he forsook his security in Haran in obedience to God (Gen. 12:5).

Now that the Israelite tribes had possession of their territories, the Lord also spake unto Joshua, saying . . . Appoint . . . cities of refuge . . . That the slayer that killeth any person unawares (unintentionally) . . . may flee thither: and they shall be your refuge from the avenger of blood. . . . he . . . shall declare his cause in the ears of the elders of that city. If the elders declare him innocent, they shall give him a place, that he may dwell among them (Josh. 20:2-4). There were six cities of refuge (Num. 35:9-34; Deut. 19:1-13). One who unintentionally killed someone was not to be given to the avenger of blood for execution. Even though innocent, he must remain in the city of refuge for protection from the avenger.

After the death of the high priest, the refugee could return home. The cities and the high priest were a type of Christ for sinners who have fled for refuge to lay hold upon the hope set before us: Which hope we have as an anchor of the soul, both sure and stedfast, and which entereth into that within the veil; Whither the forerunner is for us entered, even Jesus, made an High Priest for ever after the order of Melchisedec. . . . We have such an High Priest, who is set on the right hand of the throne of the Majesty in heavens (Heb. 6:18-20; 8:1).

Thought for Today:

Since all have sinned (Rom. 3:23), aren't you glad God made a way for us to have our sins forgiven through Jesus Christ, our refuge and strength (Ps. 46:1).
Christ Portrayed:

By Eleazar, the chief priest (Josh. 21:1; Num. 3:32). Jesus Christ is our High Priest. The . . . High Priest of our profession (confession), Christ Jesus (Heb. 3:1).
Word Studies:

20:2 Appoint out =choose; 20:3 unwittingly =without premeditation; 20:4 declare his cause =state his case; 20:5 hated him not = was without malice; 20:9 stranger =alien resident; sojourneth =temporarily dwells among them; at unawares =by accident; 21:1 heads =leaders; 21:4 lot =share.
Prayer Needs:

Pray for Radio Sri Lanka Shortwave Broadcasts sponsored by Olga Salinas • International Shortwave Broadcasts in memory of Clarence Madison • Staff: Mike Moore • Country: Ecuador (13 million) in South America, on the equator • Major language: Spanish • Religious freedom • 91% Roman Catholic; 3% Protestant • Prayer Suggestion: Your prayers must be offered to God in Spirit and in truth (John 4:22-24).
Optional Reading: John 11

Memory Verse for the Week: Matthew 5:16

[Judy Harder]

March 21
Read Joshua 22 -- 24

Highlights In Today's Reading:

The 2-1/2 tribes build an altar as a memorial and witness (Chapter 22). Joshua and Caleb wholly follow the Lord and, at the end of his days, Joshua exhorts the Israelites to live holy lives and not be friends with the Canaanites. Joshua proclaims that failure to live in holiness can and will have inevitable consequences (23:15-16).
Joshua led the way and, the twelve tribes followed him. He believed God who said: Every place that the sole of your foot shall tread upon, that have I given unto you (1:3).

Joshua experienced about seven years of wars, during which time he won every battle. Then God allowed His faithful servant to have a period of rest. And the Lord gave them rest . . . the Lord delivered all their enemies into their hand (21:44). The rest which Joshua experienced was symbolic of the believer's rest in Christ. There remaineth therefore a rest to the people of God (Heb. 4:9).

To the sinner, peace with God brings rest: Being justified by faith, we have peace with God through our Lord Jesus Christ (Rom. 5:1). To the Christian, it is the peace of God: Be careful (anxious) for nothing; but in every thing by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known unto God. And the peace of God, which passeth all understanding, shall keep your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus (Phil. 4:6-7)..

The writer of Hebrews warns: Let us labour therefore to enter into that rest, lest any man fall after the same example of unbelief (of the Israelites) (Heb. 4:11).

And Joshua called for all Israel, and for their elders, and for their heads, and for their judges, and for their officers, and said unto them, I am old and stricken in age. . . . Be ye therefore very courageous to keep and to do all that is written in the Book of the Law of Moses, that ye turn not aside therefrom to the right hand or to the left; That ye come not among these nations, these that remain among you; neither make mention of the name of their gods, nor cause to swear by them, neither serve them, nor bow yourselves unto them: But cleave unto the Lord your God, as ye have done unto this day (Josh. 23:2,6-8).

Christians are also warned: Have no fellowship with the unfruitful works of darkness, but rather reprove them (Eph. 5:11) and: Let us cleanse ourselves from all filthiness of the flesh and spirit, perfecting holiness in the fear of God (II Cor. 7:1).

Thought for Today:

Although the world does not understand it, to be separate from this world (worldly values) brings spiritual peace to the believer: Wherefore come out from among them, and be ye separate, saith the Lord, and touch not the unclean thing; and I will receive you, And will be a Father unto you, and ye shall be My sons and daughters, saith the Lord Almighty (II Cor. 6:17-18).
Christ Revealed:

Through the peace offering (Josh. 22:27). Our Lord offered Himself to God as our means of peace with the Father. Being justified by faith, we have peace with God through our Lord Jesus Christ (Rom. 5:1);

Word Studies: 22:9 were possessed =had acquired; 22:10 to see to =for all to see; 22:19 unclean =unfit; 22:20 accursed =banned; 22:23 require it =call us to account; 22:25 fearing =having reverential heartfelt submission to; 22:27 part =share; 22:34 Ed =witness; 23:1 waxed =grew; 23:4 cut off =destroyed; 23:7 swear =promise, make a vow; 23:9 stand before =withstand; 23:12 go in to =associate with; 23:13 shall be snares . . . unto you =shall catch you unawares; scourges in =whip lashes on; 23:14 am going the way of =will die like; 24:2 flood =Euphrates River; 24:5 plagued =afflicted; 24:7 covered =crowned; 24:17 wherein =in which; 24:20 strange =foreign; do you hurt =bring disaster on you; consume =destroy; 24:23 incline =yield; 24:33 pertained =belonged.

Prayer Needs:

Pray for Staff: Mary Kay Wagner • Government Officials: Rep. Paul Hodes (NH) and Rep. James Matheson (UT) • Country: Egypt (66 million) in northeastern Africa • Major languages: Arabic and English • Christians are not permitted to evangelize Muslims • 87.5% Muslim; 12% Christian; .5% Other • Prayer Suggestion: Have faith in the Word of God (John 4:49-53).
Optional Reading: John 12

Memory Verse for the Week: Matthew 5:16

[Judy Harder]

March 23
Read Judges 3 -- 5

Highlights In Today's Reading:

This is the beginning of the Lord using other nations to test Israel's loyalty (3:1,4). Notice the sequence. First servitude -- Mesopotamia -- 1st Judge Othniel. Second servitude -- Moab -- 2nd Judge Ehud. Third servitude -- Philistia -- 3rd Judge Shamgar (3:8-31). Fourth servitude -- Canaan -- 4th Judge Deborah (Barak). Climax = song of praise.
Although Joshua had executed all the Canaanite kings, the Canaanite people still occupied the promised land. They were to prove (test) Israel by them, to know whether they would hearken unto the Commandments of the LORD, which He commanded their fathers (3:4).

The first major mistake in the downfall of the Israelites was their disregard for the Commandments of the Lord. They then decided to become friendly neighbors and dwelt among the Canaanites (3:5). They took their daughters to be their wives, and gave their daughters to their sons (3:6).

Next, they served their (the Canaanites') gods (3:6). This was inevitable. The Israelites' heathen wives who worshiped idols did not teach their children to worship the One True God.

Sadly, the final step was that the children of Israel did evil in the sight of the Lord, and forgat the Lord their God, and served (worshiped) Baalim and the groves (idols) (3:7). The outcome was certain. Sin separated the sinners from the protective love of God, and they were soon under the control of an enemy nation: The anger of the Lord was hot against Israel, and He sold them into the hand of the Chushan-rishathaim king of Mesopotamia: and the children of Israel served Chushan-rishathaim eight years (3:. When the children of Israel cried unto the Lord, the Lord raised up a deliverer to the children of Israel, who delivered them (3:9,15).

Israel's history confirms that, regardless of how far we have backslidden and sinned, our merciful God always hears the prayers of those who confess their sins and commit their lives to Him. Often we are so taken up with condemning ourselves and others when we fall short of being what our heart tells us is right, that we forget that God does love us as a Father pitieth his children (Ps. 103:13). So don't give up. We need to recognize that God loves to forgive even seventy times seven (Matt. 18:22). But, wasted years of opportunity can never be relived.

Who is he that condemneth? It is Christ that died, yea rather, that is risen again, who is even at the right hand of God, who also maketh intercession for us (Rom. 8:34).

Thought for Today:

It may be easier to compromise with the world, but such actions only serve to withhold the blessings of God in our lives and bring about our eventual destruction.
Christ Portrayed:

By Othniel, a deliverer upon whom the Spirit of the Lord rested (Judg. 3:9-11). The Spirit of God was also upon Christ, our Deliverer (Matt. 3:16). There shall come out of Sion the Deliverer, and shall turn away ungodliness from Jacob (Rom. 11:26). Jesus declared: The Spirit of the Lord is upon Me, because He hath anointed Me . . . to preach deliverance to the captives (Luke 4:18).
Word Studies:

3:1 prove =test; known =experienced; 3:2 know =understand; 3:7 groves =for idolatry; 3:13 gathered =recruited; 3:16 gird =fasten; raiment =cloak; 3:18 made an end to offer the present =finished giving the tribute; bare =married; 3:19 by =at; Keep silence =leave us alone; 3:22 dirt =excrement; 3:24 covereth his feet =is relieving himself; 3:27 before =led; 3:29 lusty =robust; 3:30 subdued =defeated; 4:7 draw unto =lure; 4:11 severed =separated; 4:13 Gentiles =nations; 4:15 discomfited =stark terror; 4:16 host =army; fell upon the edge of the sword =were killed; 4:21 nail =leg; smote =drove; 5:2 the avenging of =bringing victory to; 5:10 ride on white asses =hold public office; 5:11 go down to the gates =defend themselves; 5:14 root =new; 5:15 princes =rulers; 5:18 jeoparded =risked; 5:30 sped =wound; divers =various.
Prayer Needs:

Pray for International Shortwave Broadcasts in honor of Bonnie Wilhite • Staff: Dan Murton • Government Official: Gov. Michael Easley (NC) • Country: Equatorial Guinea (466,000) in western Africa • Major language: Spanish • Freedom for churches at this time • 71% Roman Catholic; 19% ancestral spirit worship and medicine men; 6% Protestant • Prayer Suggestion: When discouraged over material or financial loss, praise the Lord for preparing and providing an eternal home (John 14:1-3).
Optional Reading: John 14

Memory Verse for the Week: Matthew 5:44