Bible Pathways

[Judy Harder]

Read Deuteronomy 32 -- 34

Highlights:

The prophetic Song of Moses (Deut. 32:1-43). Don't miss "the Words of Life" and how to prolong your days (32:46-47)! Moses blessed the 12 tribes; death of Moses on Mount Nebo; Joshua succeeds Moses.
Verses for Today:

Ascribe ye greatness unto our God. He is the Rock, His work is perfect: for all His ways are judgment: a God of Truth and without iniquity, just and right is He (Deut. 32:3-4).
Moses foretold the blessings and happiness the Israelites would have if they lived in obedience to the Word of God (33:6-29). After conferring spiritual blessings upon each of the tribes, Moses concluded with praise to God: The eternal God is thy refuge, and underneath are the everlasting arms: and He shall thrust out the enemy from before thee (33:27). Although it is written: There arose not a prophet since in Israel like unto Moses, whom the Lord knew face to face (34:10), he forfeited the privilege of leading Israel into Canaan because of his sin (32:48-52; comp. Num. 20:1-13). Thus he became an example for all Israel that God is Holy and cannot allow His Word to be broken without consequences.

Moses' life had been almost perfect. However, even though he had been the Lord's lawgiver, he sinned by striking the rock, and the Law did not permit one exception. For whosoever shall keep the whole Law, and yet offend in one point, he is guilty of all (James 2:10).

Just before his death, Moses is seen alone, climbing one of the most prominent mountain peaks in Moab from which he could view the promised land though he could not personally enter it. Moses' penalty illustrates that even forgiveness of sin does not remove its earthly consequences.

Centuries later, Moses, symbolizing the Law of God, stood on Mount Hermon in the promised land with Elijah, who symbolized the prophets of God. Together they talked with Jesus as He was transfigured before them: and His face did shine as the sun, and His raiment was white as the light. And, behold, there appeared unto them Moses and Elias (Elijah) talking with Him. Then answered Peter, and said . . . let us make here three tabernacles; one for Thee, and one for Moses, and one for Elias (Elijah). While he yet spake, behold, a bright cloud overshadowed them: and behold a voice out of the cloud . . . said, This is My beloved Son, in whom I am well pleased; hear ye Him (Matt. 17:2-5).

Thought for Today:

For the Commandment is a lamp; and the Law is light; and reproofs of instruction are the way of life (Prov. 6:23).
Christ Revealed:

As our Rock (Deut. 32:31). Christ was that spiritual Rock (Petra) that followed (accompanied) them (I Cor. 10:4).
Word Studies:

32:3 publish =proclaim; 32:19 abhorred =despised; 32:20 froward =disloyal, perverse, corrupt; 32:41 whet =sharpen; 32:44 Hoshea =Joshua; 33:9 Covenant =binding agreement with all qualifications given by God; 33:28 corn =grain; 33:29 tread upon their high places =trample down their heathen altars; 34:2 utmost sea =Mediterranean; 34:6 sepulchre =grave; 34:7 abated =lessened; 34:12 great terror =marvelous deeds.
Prayer Needs:

Pray for International Broadcasts in honor of Bonnie Wilhite • Staff: Pam Pendergrast • Government Officials: Sen. Kent Conrad (ND) and Gov. Mitt Romney (MA) • Country: Bosnia and Hercegovina (4 million) on the Balkan Peninsula in southeastern Europe • Major language: Serbo-Croatian • Little evangelism being done • 40% Muslim; 28% Serbian Orthodox; 14% Roman Catholic • Prayer Suggestion: Rejoice that our Savior lives (John 20:15-18).
Optional Reading: John 3

Memory Verse for the Week: Matthew 5:3-6

[Judy Harder]

Saturday, March 13, 2010 

Read Joshua 1 -- 3

Highlights:

Moses is dead! God chooses Joshua, the servant of Moses, to lead this great multitude. See the miracles as, by faith, the feet of the priests touch the water. At last, after 40 years, the two million children of the adults who were delivered from Egypt enter their promised land.
Verses for Today:

Arise, go over this Jordan. . . . I will not fail thee, nor forsake thee. . . . Be strong and of a good courage; be not afraid . . . for the Lord thy God is with thee withersoever thou goest (Josh. 1:2,5,9).
Joshua was born in Egyptian slavery. While the majority complained and found fault with Moses during their desert trials, Joshua remained a faithful coworker with Moses. His faith in God almost caused him to be stoned to death by the former generation when he urged them to go into Canaan (see Num. 14:6-10).

To be brought out of Egypt was one thing, but it was altogether another to go over this Jordan (Josh. 1:2) and thus become committed to the struggles against the power of Canaanites with their chariots of iron (17:16) and their armies of giants (Num. 13:33). To do this was to commit themselves to a course which 10 out of 12 spies who reported on the land 28 years earlier had opposed. The crossing of this Jordan was a major step of faith which the former generation refused to take. To the natural eye, it was a risk of losing everything — even their very lives.

By faith, Rahab the harlot decided to put her trust in the One True God and protect the spies. She eventually had the honor of being in the Messianic Line. The key to a prosperous and successful life was clearly stated (Josh. 1:, and God is no respecter of persons (Acts 10:34). Christians face a similar choice of faith — whether or not there will be a once-and-for-all abandonment of self to the will of God, so that He is truly first in one's life.

It is one thing to take Christ as Savior from our sins, but it is another to make Him Master of our will and life. It is one thing to move out of Egypt — a type of the unregenerate life — to join the people redeemed by God and live by faith; but it is another thing to cross over Jordan and present your bodies a living sacrifice . . . and be not conformed to this world (Rom. 12:1-2).

When the Lord is leading the way, we will conquer the "giants" in our lives. Victory is assured. Whether it is overcoming a Pharaoh, a Red Sea, the wilderness, or other "giants" in our lives, such as fear, lust, jealousy, envy — His grace is sufficient.

But without faith it is impossible to please Him: for he that cometh to God must believe that He is, and that He is a rewarder of them that diligently seek Him (Heb. 11:6).

Thought for Today:

But be ye doers of the Word, and not hearers only, deceiving your own selves (James 1:22).
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 =sssistant; 1:4 coast =territory, boundary; 1:15 rest =peace; sunrising =east; 1:17 hearkened unto =obeyed; 2:17 blameless =free, released; 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 Government Official: Gov. John Hoeven (ND) • Country: Botswana (1.5 million) in southern Africa • Major languages: English and Setswana • Limited religious freedom because of local chiefs • 58% Christian; 40% Indigenous; .8% Baha'i; .2% Muslim; .2% Other • Prayer Suggestion: Pray in one accord with other Christians (Acts 1:14).
Optional Reading: John 4

Memory Verse for the Week: Matthew 5:3-6

[Judy Harder]

Read Joshua 4 -- 6

Highlights:

Twelve stones are a testimony that the hand of the Lord . . . is mighty (Josh. 4:20-24). The Israelites enter a new chapter in their lives by circumcision and celebrating Passover. Then the walls of Jericho come tumbling down (chap. 6)!
Verses for Today:

At that time the Lord said unto Joshua, Make thee sharp knives, and circumcise again the children of Israel (new generation) the second time (Josh. 5:2).
When the estimated two million Israelites crossed the Jordan River, the Canaanite inhabitants were gripped with terror (2:9). This may have seemed like the perfect time for the Israelites to rush into battle and claim the land God had promised them. But they were not yet in a right Covenant relationship with God. The rite of circumcision had been instituted by the Lord with Abraham, the father of the faithful, as a visible sign of the people's Covenant relationship with Him (Gen. 17:9-14). It was required before anyone could eat the Passover (Ex. 12:48).

In keeping with the Covenant of God with Abraham, the new generation had to submit to the humbling rite of circumcision. Their obedience ensured them of the continued protection and direction of God.

After being circumcised, the new generation became identified as the Lord's Covenant people and were qualified to keep the Passover (Josh. 5:8,10). The Passover commemorated the Lord's deliverance of His people from Egypt and pointed the way to the Messianic Deliverer (I Cor. 5:7). Circumcision and the Passover foreshadowed the ordinances (commands) of believer's baptism and the Lord's Supper for the Church.

At His last Passover, our Lord Jesus revealed that His death would fulfill and replace the Passover. The Apostle Paul spoke of this New Covenant, saying: The Lord Jesus . . . took bread: And when He had given thanks, He brake it, and said, Take, eat: this is My body, which is broken for you: this do in remembrance of Me. After the same manner also He took the cup, when He had supped (finished eating), saying, This cup is the New Testament (Covenant) in My blood (I Cor. 11:23-25).

The Christian's circumcision is also explained by Paul: In whom also ye are circumcised with the circumcision made without hands, in putting off the body of the sins of the flesh by the circumcision of Christ: Buried with Him in baptism, wherein also ye are risen with Him through the faith of the operation of God, who hath raised Him from the dead (Col. 2:11-12).

Thought for Today:

For what the Law could not do, in that it was weak through the flesh, God sending His own Son in the likeness of sinful flesh, and for sin, condemned sin in the flesh: That the righteousness of the Law might be fulfilled in us, who walk not after the flesh, but after the Spirit (Rom. 8:3-4).
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; 4:11 clean passed =finished crossing; 4:14 magnified =exalted; 4:20 pitch =set up; 5:11 old corn =produce from previous harvest; unleavened =yeast-free; 6:1 straitly shut up =carefully barricaded; 6:3 compass =march around; 6:9 rereward =rear guard; 6:19 consecrated =sacred, set apart to the Lord; 6:26 adjured them =required an oath of them; 6:27 noised =spread abroad.
Prayer Needs:

Pray for International Broadcasts in honor of Barbara Bivens • Country: Brazil (168 million) in South America • Major languages: Portuguese and Spanish • Religious freedom • 67% Catholic; 21% Protestant; 4% spiritist; .7% Buddhist; .7% Muslim; .15% Indigenous; 2.4% Other • Prayer Suggestion: Pray in one accord and praise God as the Creator (Acts 4:24).
Optional Reading: John 5

Memory Verse for the Week: Matthew 5:7-8

[Judy Harder]

Monday, March 15, 2010 

Read Joshua 7 -- 8

Highlights:

Sin of Achan; Israel defeated by Ai; judgment of Achan; Ai defeated; altar on Mount Ebal; Covenant renewed. What was read to Israel is very important for us to know.
Verses for Today:

Achan . . . said . . . I have sinned . . . When I saw among the spoils a goodly Babylonish garment, and two hundred shekels of silver, and a wedge of gold . . . then I coveted them (Josh. 7:20-21).
Jericho had been destroyed by God and Joshua said: All the silver, and gold, and vessels of brass and iron, are consecrated unto the Lord: they shall come into the treasury of the Lord (6:19). Achan was a soldier in the Lord's army, privileged to gather silver and gold from the ruins of Jericho for the treasury of the Lord. But he buried some of it in his tent.

Perhaps he thought that a few extra shekels would be nice. He assumed that no one would know. Apart from believing the Word of God, it's easy to allow our selfish greed to deceive us. Achan's sin of coveting was detestable to God as revealed by His fierce anger.

Nine times in the first six chapters of the Book of Joshua it is said that the Lord had spoken and directed Joshua (1:1; 3:7; 4:1, 8,10,15; 5:2,15; 6:2). By not consulting the Lord, Israel went to war with Ai, and Israel incurred defeat (7:2-5). Joshua had momentarily failed to consider that the Lord Himself was their Commander-in-Chief.

The fierceness of the Lord's anger reveals how detestable to God is the sin of coveting and Achan had to be judged.

We are all selfish by nature and, unless we submit to the indwelling Holy Spirit, the smallest temptation will prove too powerful for us. To covet is dishonest. Honesty implies refusal to lie, steal, cheat, or deceive.

It is recorded that Judas coveted and stole money entrusted to him by the Lord (John 12:4-6). Christians will provide things honest in the sight of all men. . . . Let us walk honestly, as in the day. . . . In all things willing to live honestly (Rom. 12:17; 13:13; Heb. 13:18).

Honesty is a test of character. Our motives and our attitudes reveal our character and our conduct. If we are not strictly "honest" in all our dealings with God and man, we need to repent, pray for forgiveness, and return it to its owner, and do that which is honest (II Cor. 13:7).

Thought for Today:

But whoso looketh into the perfect Law of liberty, and continueth therein, he being not a forgetful hearer, but a doer of the work, this man shall be blessed in his deed (James 1:25).
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; Matt. 21:42).
Word Studies:

7:1 anger of the Lord was kindled =fierceness of His anger (7:26); 7:6 rent =tore; put dust upon their heads =b> expressed intense sorrow by defiling their heads; 7:9 environ us round =surround us; against =before; 7:11 dissembled =deceived; 7:13 sanctify =consecrate, cleanse, make undefiled; against =efore; 7:18 taken =chosen; 7:26 Achor =trouble; 8:11 pitched =camped; 8:13 liers in wait =oncealed ambushers.
Prayer Needs:

Pray for International Broadcasts in memory of Henry Rogers • Government Officials: Sen. Edward Kaufman (DE) and Justice Ruth Bader Ginsburg • Country: Brunei (400,000) on the northern coast of Borneo • Major languages: Malay and English • Limited religious freedom • 66% Muslim; 19% Chinese religions; 6% animist; 4% Protestant; 4% Roman Catholic • Prayer Suggestion: Pray for boldness to tell others about the Lord (Acts 4:29).
Optional Reading: John 6

Memory Verse for the Week: Matthew 5:7-8

[Judy Harder]

Read Joshua 9 -- 10

Highlights:

Israel's treaty with Gibeon. 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 (Josh. 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).
Verses for Today:

The inhabitants of Gibeon . . . did work wilily (deceitfully). . . . And they went to Joshua . . . and said unto him . . . We be come from a far country: now therefore make ye a league with us (Josh. 9:3-6).
After Joshua's victories over Jericho and Ai, five kings (10:3) united to fight the Israelites. However, the Gibeonites, located between the land of the Canaanite kings and the encampment of Israel (9:17), decided their chances of survival would be greater by making a league with the Israelites than by joining with the Canaanite kings in their war with Israel. They deceptively told Joshua: From a very far country thy servants are come because of the Name (awesome Reputation) of the Lord thy God: for we have heard the fame of Him. . . . Wherefore our elders and all the inhabitants of our country spake to us, saying, Take victuals (provisions, food) with you for the journey, and go to meet them, and say unto them, We are your servants: therefore now make ye a league (treaty) with us. . . . And the men took of their victuals, and asked not counsel at the mouth of the Lord. And Joshua made peace with them, and made a league with them, to let them live (9:9-11,14-15). This league with the Gibeonites reveals the enemy's skill in deception and how fallible our human reasoning is. Had Joshua prayed to the Lord, he would never have made this league.

The Israelites did not break their oath, even though the Gibeonites had deceived them. However, over 400 years later, Israel suffered a 3-year famine because King Saul broke this covenant (II Sam. 21:1). One sin never justifies another. As children of God, what distinguishes us from all other people is that we overcome evil with good (Rom. 12:21). God wants us to learn from the Gibeonites' covenant, even though wrongly made, the importance of having personal integrity and keeping our commitments.

The moldy bread and worn clothing seemed to be visible proof of the strangers' words (Josh. 9:12-13). Too often we make decisions based on what we see or think. Trust in the Lord with all thine heart; and lean not unto thine own understanding. In all thy ways acknowledge Him, and He shall direct thy paths (Prov. 3:5-6).

Thought for Today:

For I delight in the Law of God after the inward man (Rom. 7:22).
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 wine bottles =wineskins; rent =torn; 9:5 clouted =atched; 9:6 league =treaty; 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 =come with haste; 10:10 discomfited =defeated in battle; 10:13 book of Ja'sher =book of heroes (literally, "upright ones); hasted not =delayed for about a day; 10:20 fenced =fortified, walled; 10:21 moved his tongue =uttered a word; 10:24 your feet upon the necks = symbol of mastery; 10:40 vale =valley.
Prayer Needs:

Pray for International Broadcasts in honor of Beth Carlton • Staff: Ilene Wallace • Government Officials: Rep. Joseph Crowley (NY) and Rep. Ron Kind (WI) • Country: Bulgaria (8.2 million) in southeastern Europe • Major languages: Bulgarian and ethnic languages • Newly opened to evangelism • 85% Eastern Orthodox; 12% Muslim Sunni; 1% Shi'a Muslim; .6% Catholic; .27% Protestant; .1% Armenian Gregorian; .03% Jewish; 1% Other • Prayer Suggestion: Pray for those who wrong you (Acts 7:59-60).
Optional Reading: John 7

Memory Verse for the Week: Matthew 5:7-8

 

[Judy Harder]

Read Joshua 11 -- 13

Highlights:

In 1:3, the Lord said to Joshua: Every place that the sole of your foot shall tread upon, that have I given unto you. All the Canaanite kings mobilize their armies and unite to defeat Israel. Read how Joshua and the Israelites are victorious and win every battle. God promises to "give" them the land; but that covenant agreement meant for them to put forth all their strength and God would guide, protect, and provide to meet their needs. The key to their victory is the same for us.
Verses for Today:

There remaineth yet very much land to be possessed (Josh. 13:1).
Everyone in Jericho knew the reputation of Israel's God as Rahab confessed: As soon as we had heard these things, our hearts did melt, neither did there remain any more courage in any man, because of you: for the Lord your God, He is God in heaven above, and in earth beneath (2:11). Rahab put her faith in the God of the Hebrews and was not only saved but was included in the genealogy of Jesus (Matt. 1:5; Heb. 11:31; James 2:25). The Canaanite kings knew what Rahab knew but they decided to fight against the Israelites and the One True God.

News of Joshua's invasion spread throughout Canaan. Jabin, King of Hazor in the north, enlisted the kings and their soldiers from far into the mountains (Josh. 11:1-2,8).

Joshua's small army heard that they were facing much people, even as the sand that is upon the sea shore in multitude, with horses and chariots. . . . the Lord said unto Joshua, Be not afraid because of them: for to morrow . . . will I deliver them up all slain. . . . and. . . . they smote them (11:4-8).

So Joshua took the whole land, according to all that the Lord said unto Moses. . . . And the land rested from war (11:23). Thirty-one kings (12:24) had been defeated and Joshua established military control over all of the promised land. However, the individual tribes were each to complete the destruction of the Canaanites in their own territories (Ex. 23:29-30; Deut. 7:22).

History and Scripture alike join in saying to everyone: Whatsoever thy hand findeth to do, do it with thy might (Eccl. 9:10). The Lord never promised anyone an easy time in serving Him or told anyone they were not qualified. Christ has said: The night cometh, when no man can work (John 9:4).

Only one life, 'twill soon be past. Only what's done for Christ will last — is eternal — all worldly achievements are temporary.

Wherefore . . . Awake thou that sleepest, and arise from the dead, and Christ shall give thee light (Eph. 5:14).

Thought for Today:

Do not they blaspheme that worthy Name by which ye are called? (James 2:7).
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 the Salt Sea =Dead Sea; 13:22 soothsayer =diviner, fortune teller.
Prayer Needs:

Pray for International Broadcasts in memory of Iva Ann McElroy • Staff: Gina Lesnefsky • Country: Burkina Faso (11 million) in western Africa • Major languages: French and Sudanic tribal languages • Religious freedom • 48% Muslim; 33% belief in false gods, idolatry, and heathenism; 14% Roman Catholic; 5% Protestant • Prayer Suggestion: Ask the Lord to show you what to do, and then be willing to do it (Acts 9:6).
Optional Reading: John 8

Memory Verse for the Week: Matthew 5:7-8

[Judy Harder]

Read Joshua 14 -- 16

Highlights:

Canaan territories divided among the tribes. Caleb gets his mountain (Josh. 14:6-12). Note his age! As the tribes receive their inheritance, notice how precise the boundaries are laid out.
Verses for Today:

Caleb . . . wholly followed the Lord God of Israel. . . . (But) the children of Ephraim . . . drave not out the Canaanites that dwelt in Gezer: but the Canaanites dwell among the Ephraimites unto this day, and serve under tribute (Josh. 14:14; 16:9-10).
The tribe of Ephraim was powerful enough to dominate the Canaanites so they allowed the idol-worshipping Canaanites to live under their control. Apparently their financial gain from these Canaanites was more important to them than being obedient to God. It is no surprise that the Ephraimites soon became idolators. Many complain and give up when their circumstances "seem" not to be in their best interest.

The Anakim (giants) had been driven out of Hebron by Joshua, perhaps five years before this time (10:2-11; 11:21-22). Now they were back and in control of the territory — undoubtedly, with a much greater determination to retain the land promised to Caleb. But God always honors the faith of men like Caleb who rely upon His Word. Consequently, he defeated the Anakim.

At Caleb's "retirement" age of 85, he recounted to Joshua how God had faithfully brought him that far: Forty years old was I when Moses the servant of the Lord sent me from Kadesh-barnea to espy (spy) out the land; and I brought him word again as it was in mine heart. Nevertheless my brethren that went up with me made the heart of the people melt: but I wholly (wholeheartedly) followed the Lord my God (14:7-8).

Caleb's unshakable faith can be seen in his report 38 years before as a spy: I brought him word again as it was in mine heart. As he faced the opposition of the other spies and the people, he spoke his convictions, saying: Let us go up at once, and possess it (Num. 13:30).

Caleb and Joshua were willing to believe God. We are sometimes afraid to speak about spiritual and moral issues when our convictions are unpopular; but the person blessed of God, like Caleb, is unaffected by what others say or do and move forward to accomplish the Lord's will.

Surely our faith ought to exceed Caleb's, inasmuch as it is Christ . . . at the right hand of God, who also maketh intercession for us (Rom. 8:34).

Thought for Today:

Be not slothful, but followers of them who through faith and patience inherit the promises (Heb. 6:12).
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 =take a search in; 14:8 wholly followed =obeyed wholeheartedly; 14:9 sware =promised under oath; 14:12 fenced =fortified; 14:15 had rest =enjoyed peace; 15:6 stone =boundary marker; 15:10 compassed =curved westward; 15:19 nether =lower; 16:1 fell =ent; 16:3 goings out thereof are at =borders reach the sea; 16:10 under tribute =as forced laborers.
Prayer Needs:

Pray for International Broadcasts in honor of Jennifer Cunningham • Country: Burundi (6 million) in east-central Africa • Major languages: Kirundi and French • Losing religious freedom • 51% Roman Catholic; 12% animist; 11% Protestant; 1% Muslim • Prayer Suggestion: Pray and fast in secret so that only the Lord knows (Acts 10:30).
Optional Reading: John 9

Memory Verse for the Week: Matthew 5:7-8

[Judy Harder]

Read Joshua 17 -- 19

Highlights:

Canaan is under the control of the Israelites and the Tabernacle is set up in a central location at Shiloh. Joshua's inheritance. As they reap the rewards of the promise given on the other side of the Jordan River, the land is divided among all the tribes by lot; but some tribes never claim their territory.
Verses for Today:

The children of Joseph spake unto Joshua, saying, Why hast thou given me but one lot and one portion to inherit, seeing I am a great people? . . . When they had made an end of dividing the land . . . the children of Israel gave . . . to Joshua . . . the (small) city which he asked, even Timnathserah (Josh. 17:14; 19:49-50).
The conquest of Canaan was completed and the land was divided among them by the Lord. When the whole congregation of the children of Israel assembled together at Shiloh, and set up the Tabernacle. . . . the land was subdued before them. . . . Joshua cast lots for them in Shiloh before the Lord: and there Joshua divided the land unto the children of Israel (18:1,10).

Although they had received some of the best territory in the promised land, the tribes of Manasseh and Ephraim complained that they should have more territory given to them because of their great numbers and what they perceived as their prominent position among the tribes (17:14-18). The Ephraimites were proud of their history as descendants of Joseph and the fact that Joshua, the victorious commander who had led in the conquest of Canaan, was also from their tribe.

Sadly, these two tribes chose to compromise with the Canaanites (16:10; 17:12-13). The blessings of God often depend upon faith and faith without works is dead (James 2:20).

In a striking contrast to the tribes of Manasseh and Ephraim, Joshua chose to be the last to lay claim to any territory (Josh. 19:49). As captain, we could expect him to be first and to take the best for himself. Instead, he chose last. His choice was a very small area near Shiloh where the Tabernacle was erected and where he could best worship and serve the Lord. It was there, in the nearness of the Lord's presence, that Joshua built his small city. Joshua illustrates the importance of being fervent in spirit; serving the Lord. . . . Submit yourselves therefore to God. Resist the devil, and he will flee from you. . . . Humble yourselves in the sight of the Lord, and He shall lift you up (Rom. 12:11; James 4:7,10).

Thought for Today:

And hereby we do know that we know Him, if we keep His Commandments (I John 2:3).
Christ Revealed:

Through Shiloh. The children of Israel assembled together at Shiloh, and set up the Tabernacle (Josh. 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 of; 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 International Broadcasts in memory of Audrey Hash (Dr. Hash's sister-in-law — passed away in January) • Country: Cambodia (12 million) in Southeast Asia • Major languages: Khmer and French • Confused and unsettled at this time • 88% Buddhist; 3% animism and spirit worship; 2% Muslim; .6% Roman Catholic/Protestant • Prayer Suggestion: Pray diligently with other believers and God will answer (Acts 12:5-10).
Optional Reading: John 10

Memory Verse for the Week: Matthew 5:7-8

 

[Judy Harder]

Read Joshua 20 -- 21

Highlights:

Six cities appointed as places of refuge; forty-eight cities given to the Levites. Their support is the responsibility of all the tribes (Josh. 21:44-45).
Verses for Today:

The children of Israel gave unto the Levites out of their inheritance, at the Commandment of the Lord . . . cities and their suburbs (Josh. 21:3).
Unlike all the other tribes of Israel, Levi was not given separate territory (14:3). Unto the tribe of Levi Moses gave not any inheritance: the Lord God of Israel was their inheritance, as He said unto them (13:33). But the Levites have no part among you; for the priesthood of the Lord is their inheritance (18:7).

The Levites were divided into three groups according to the descendants of Levi's three sons, Gershon, Kohath, and Merari. But only those Israelites who were descendants of Levi through Kohath's grandson Aaron could be priests and serve in the Tabernacle (Num. 3:10). However, some of these descendants were physically disqualified to be ministers at the altar because of disabilities and defects and some were spiritually disqualified because they violated one or more of the Commandments (Lev. 21:1-23). The priests were responsible for preserving, transcribing, teaching, and interpreting the Law. They were also the civil officers responsible for the administration of the Law (Deut. 17:9-12; 31:9,11-12,26). All the Levites, not merely the ones who were responsible for the worship at the Tabernacle, were to receive an equal share of the tithes from the other tribes (Num. 18:21-24). Each tribe was to provide for the physical welfare of the priests within its own territory. This was not left up to the goodwill of the people but was a Command from God.

God devoted 42 of the 45 verses in Joshua 21 to emphasize the Israelites' obligation to support the ministers of His Word. No one is too poor or exempt from giving his tithe which is a tenth of his income; and thus it was proportionately equal for all. When Israel was faithful in this, God mightily blessed them. When they failed, they suffered.

The Apostle Paul illustrated this by saying: For it is written . . . Thou shalt not muzzle the mouth of the ox that treadeth out the corn. Doth God take care for oxen? Or saith He it altogether for our sakes? For our sakes, no doubt, this is written. . . . If we have sown unto you spiritual things, is it a great thing if we shall reap your carnal (financial) things? . . . the Lord ordained that they which preach the Gospel should live of the Gospel (I Cor. 9:9-11,14).

Thought for Today:

And this is His Commandment, That we should believe on the Name of His Son Jesus Christ, and love one another, as He gave us Commandment (I John 3:23).
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, Assign; 20:3 unwittingly =without premeditation, unintentionally; 20:4 declare his cause =state his case; 20:5 hated him not = was without malice; 20:9 stranger =foreign resident; sojourneth =temporarily dwells; at unawares =by accident; 21:1 heads =leaders; 21:4 lot =share.
Prayer Needs:

Pray for Country: Cameroon (15 million) in west-central Africa • Major languages: English and French • Pressure on Christians from authorities and Muslims • 28% Roman Catholic; 23% Muslim; 18% animism, divination, and animal sacrifices; 14% Protestant • Prayer Suggestion: Lift up prayers of praise and thanksgiving to God even in times of adversity (Acts 16:22-25).
Optional Reading: John 11

Memory Verse for the Week: Matthew 5:7-8

[Judy Harder]

Read Joshua 22 -- 24

Highlights:

Two and one-half tribes build an altar near the Jordan River on the west side of Jordan (Josh. 22:10), then return east of the Jordan; civil war averted; Joshua's final proclamation to the Israelites to live holy lives and not be friends with the Canaanites.
Verses for Today:

Be 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. . . . For the Lord hath driven out from before you great nations and strong. . . . One man of you shall chase a thousand: for the Lord your God, He it is that fighteth for you (Josh. 23:6-10).
When God told Joshua: Every place that the sole of your foot shall tread upon, that have I given unto you, as I said unto Moses (1:3), Joshua did not merely "trust the Lord" that He would force the Canaanites to voluntarily give up their land. The fact is, the Israelites received their inheritance by faith that God would help them conquer every foot of land that He had promised them (see the Key to Success in 1:. After about seven years, the Israelites, under the leadership of Joshua, had conquered Canaan. And the Lord gave them rest round about, according to all that He sware unto their fathers . . . the Lord delivered all their enemies into their hand (21:44).

The Israelites' greatest danger was yet to be faced. Joshua said unto the people. . . . If ye forsake the Lord, and serve strange (foreign) gods, then He will . . . do you hurt (bring disaster), and consume (destroy) you, after that He hath done you good. . . . Now therefore put away . . . the strange gods which are among you, and incline (yield) your heart unto the Lord God of Israel (24:19-20,23). "Jesus" (the same as "Joshua" in Hebrew) freed us from death for our sins by His substitutionary death on the cross and His triumphant physical resurrection.

We too need to be reminded daily to incline (our) heart unto the Lord. What a tragedy that so many assume that, once a person has accepted Jesus Christ as Savior, he has nothing to do but "just leave everything up to the Lord." But the Lord has left it up to us. Wherefore take unto you the whole armour of God, that ye may be able to withstand in the evil day. . . . Stand therefore, having your loins girt (belted) about with Truth, and having on the breastplate of righteousness; And your feet shod with the preparation of the Gospel of peace; Above all, taking the shield of faith, wherewith ye shall be able to quench all the fiery darts (arrows, shots) of the wicked. And take the helmet of salvation, and the Sword of the Spirit, which is the Word of God (Eph. 6:13-17).

Thought for Today:

But whoso keepeth his Word, in him verily is the love of God perfected: hereby know we that we are in Him (I John 2:5).
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, defiled; 22:20 accursed =belonged to the Lord — all Israel became accursed if anyone took something for himself (6:17-19); 22:23 require it =call us to account; 22:25 fearing =having reverential heartfelt submission to and respect for; 23:1 waxed =grew; 23:4 cut off =destroyed; 23:7 swear =make a vow; 23:9 stand before =withstand; 23:12 go in unto =associate with; 23:13 shall be snares . . . unto you =shall catch you unawares; scourges in =whip lashes on; 24:2 flood =Euphrates River; 24:20 strange =foreign; 24:23 incline =field; 24:33 pertained =belonged.
Prayer Needs:

Pray for Government Officials: Rep. Paul Hodes (NH) and Rep. James Matheson (UT) • Country: Canada (31 million) in North America • Major languages: English and French • Religious freedom • 47% Roman Catholic; 37% Protestant; 3% Eastern Orthodox; 2% cults; 1% Jewish • Prayer Suggestion: Pray for safety in your travels (Rom. 1:10).
Optional Reading: John 12

Memory Verse for the Week: Matthew 5:9-10