Today’s Reading: Joshua 9-12
As we read the bible, you note some similarities or repetitions. Here are some of them today:
- “but did not inquire of the Lord.” – they did not defer to the Lord before they made their decision to make a treaty with the Gibeonites. After realizing their error, instead of repenting, they “grumbled against the leaders”. Furthermore, they ended up defending Gibeonites against others due to their oath given without asking to the Lord. When you make a decision without the Lord, it is not a wise one. In addition, such unwise decisions may have consequences that you may not anticipate or want to take on.
- “For it was the Lord himself who hardened their hearts to wage war against Israel, so that he might destroy them totally, exterminating them without mercy, as the Lord had commanded Moses.” Do you recall that God “hardened” the heart of Pharaoh and his officers against the Israelites? Why? To show the glory of the Lord. Here, the Lord is again hardened the hearts of people in the Canaan to show the glory of the Lord.
- “Do not be afraid” — yes, we got this phrase 3 times in today’s reading. “Be strong and courageous, for the Lord is with you always” No matter your life storms you experience right now, remember to be strong and courageous for the Lord is with you always.
Speaking of “remembering”, for those of you who came to yesterday’s service, did you not say “I get it now”? I did. Mr. Rob V. was explaining the reason for the law to be remembered by the Israelites at all times. Do you want to know why as well? Then, check this out! Mr. Stephen at our church put all our speakers’ service online for anyone who did not have an opportunity to be there. I would wait until tomorrow to click this link for yesterday’s recording, though. However, there is a good one about “grumbling” by Mr. Rob P. as well. If you like, please keep the link on your website for new services each week to listen.
I started my morning roughly, by sending off my spouse without a map to the place he needed to be. Thank goodness he actually called me and we figured it out together. Whatever goes against you right now, remember to be strong and courageous because the Lord is with you to guide your path, to give you strength and to provide you the rest you need.