I need to get back in the habit.
Isaiah 53
This is a prophetic chapter concerning Jesus, and the pain and sorrow He would bear on our behalf. It talks of His piercing and rejection, His offering and suffering.
In hindsight, it seems amazing to think that no one saw the signs when they saw Jesus; He was the epitome of this chapter and so many others. Yet to fulfill the chapter, He had to be rejected rather than received. It's such a paradox: God gave the scriptures so that they might know Him when they saw Him, but to fulfill those same scriptures He had to be rejected by them. Incredible love.
He loved me THAT much. Indescribable.
God, I want to be in love with You again. I want to accept Your love and to stop falling short. Help me. I cannot do this on my own. I want to recognize you when I see you, not unknowingly reject you. How many times have I seen You and not known? Show me where you are.
Amen.
4/13/09
3/27/09
Day 43 - March 27/09
Ruth 2
For no apparent reason, Boaz, a wealthy relative, takes notice of Ruth. When he realizes who she is, she is given more than what she deserves and is protected from danger.
Normally for young women it would have been very dangerous to do what she was doing, in following the plowers to pick up the gleanings. The men who did the plowing often "harmed" those young women if they weren't servants in the owner's household. Ruth was done a very great kindness by being allowed what she was, especially as a foreigner.
I don't think I often enough notice the people who are off to the side, in the background. And even if I do, I am not quick enough to help them and be kind. I want that to change.
God, open my eyes to the hurting people around me and give me grace for them even when I don't think they deserve it. Show me how to love the way that You have loved me.
Amen.
For no apparent reason, Boaz, a wealthy relative, takes notice of Ruth. When he realizes who she is, she is given more than what she deserves and is protected from danger.
Normally for young women it would have been very dangerous to do what she was doing, in following the plowers to pick up the gleanings. The men who did the plowing often "harmed" those young women if they weren't servants in the owner's household. Ruth was done a very great kindness by being allowed what she was, especially as a foreigner.
I don't think I often enough notice the people who are off to the side, in the background. And even if I do, I am not quick enough to help them and be kind. I want that to change.
God, open my eyes to the hurting people around me and give me grace for them even when I don't think they deserve it. Show me how to love the way that You have loved me.
Amen.
3/25/09
Day 42 - March 25/09
Ruth 1
"Where you go I will go, and where you stay I will stay. Your people will be my people and your God my God" (1:16b).
Ruth came from Moab, had other families and other gods. Once her husband died, she had no reason to stay with Naomi, but something compelled her to. She forsook it all to be with Naomi, and she chose to honour God.
What am I willing to give up? Would I forsake it ALL for God? Not just the easy stuff, but the really hard stuff too. It's an interesting question, and it's been making me wonder.
God, help me to realize that all these things in life are not my own. Even my relationships and my own life aren't mine, so why would I ever hold them back from you? Please help me to grasp exactly how much you bought when you paid for me on the cross.
Amen.
"Where you go I will go, and where you stay I will stay. Your people will be my people and your God my God" (1:16b).
Ruth came from Moab, had other families and other gods. Once her husband died, she had no reason to stay with Naomi, but something compelled her to. She forsook it all to be with Naomi, and she chose to honour God.
What am I willing to give up? Would I forsake it ALL for God? Not just the easy stuff, but the really hard stuff too. It's an interesting question, and it's been making me wonder.
God, help me to realize that all these things in life are not my own. Even my relationships and my own life aren't mine, so why would I ever hold them back from you? Please help me to grasp exactly how much you bought when you paid for me on the cross.
Amen.
3/22/09
Day 41 - March 22/09
John
This has actually taken the last few days while I was gone on retreat. What I love so much about John is the eloquent way he presents everything about Jesus. He does not seem rushed to fill every page of every book about everything Jesus ever did, but rather to put out the knowledge that there is a Saviour and He has come.
Every time I read John, I am once again astounded by its difference from the rest of the Gospels. Rather than facts or events or specifics, he is concerned with recording Jesus' words, because to him they seemed to be the most important.
I fall short of how God wants me to live every day. I read the story of Jesus, how amazing He was, and I am blown away...yet I can't seem to turn that into more positive life change. I think I'm in a rut that only He can pull me out of.
God, I want to draw closer to you. I don't know how to pin down what it is that's holding me back, or how to let go of those things, but I know that You're the only answer. Help me to take these words and take them to heart. I don't want to lose them in the mess of everything else.
Amen.
This has actually taken the last few days while I was gone on retreat. What I love so much about John is the eloquent way he presents everything about Jesus. He does not seem rushed to fill every page of every book about everything Jesus ever did, but rather to put out the knowledge that there is a Saviour and He has come.
Every time I read John, I am once again astounded by its difference from the rest of the Gospels. Rather than facts or events or specifics, he is concerned with recording Jesus' words, because to him they seemed to be the most important.
I fall short of how God wants me to live every day. I read the story of Jesus, how amazing He was, and I am blown away...yet I can't seem to turn that into more positive life change. I think I'm in a rut that only He can pull me out of.
God, I want to draw closer to you. I don't know how to pin down what it is that's holding me back, or how to let go of those things, but I know that You're the only answer. Help me to take these words and take them to heart. I don't want to lose them in the mess of everything else.
Amen.
3/18/09
Day 40 - March 18/09
Judges 21
More things happen to end off judges, such as the stealing of virgin girls from other cities for the Benjamites, and the book ends with the same verse: "In those days Israel had no king; everyone did as he saw fit" (21:25).
There was no leader/mentor/guide to bring the people into a place of rightness with God. They did whatever they wanted because they did not feel accountable to God. Samson was the last of the judges, and even he did not do right in the sight of God.
Sometimes I wonder if I need a mentor or someone over me to keep me accountable to God, or if I just need to be reading the Bible more often and praying. I'm going to start reading The Divine Mentor soon, and I hope that will shed some light on this issue for me.
God, I've given certain things into Your hands, and I'm trusting You with them. Please keep them safe.
Amen.
More things happen to end off judges, such as the stealing of virgin girls from other cities for the Benjamites, and the book ends with the same verse: "In those days Israel had no king; everyone did as he saw fit" (21:25).
There was no leader/mentor/guide to bring the people into a place of rightness with God. They did whatever they wanted because they did not feel accountable to God. Samson was the last of the judges, and even he did not do right in the sight of God.
Sometimes I wonder if I need a mentor or someone over me to keep me accountable to God, or if I just need to be reading the Bible more often and praying. I'm going to start reading The Divine Mentor soon, and I hope that will shed some light on this issue for me.
God, I've given certain things into Your hands, and I'm trusting You with them. Please keep them safe.
Amen.
3/16/09
Day 39 - March 16/09
Judges 20
Civil war is once again upon Israel. Because of the act from the previous chapter against the Levite's concubine, all of Israel came out to fight against Benjamin. The first two days of battle, it appeared as though God would not carry them through. On the third day, though, God delivered Benjamin into their hands for victory.
Even after the first and second days of slaughter, Israel continued to trust that God would have their back. They had faith without seeing.
I used to think I had a lot of faith, and at the time I probably did, but now it feels as though I don't know what to trust anymore. I know it should be God, but I still feel like I don't hear Him clearly. It's so confusing.
God, I'm trying to walk in Your ways, but I could use some serious guidance. I don't want to mess everything up.
Amen.
Civil war is once again upon Israel. Because of the act from the previous chapter against the Levite's concubine, all of Israel came out to fight against Benjamin. The first two days of battle, it appeared as though God would not carry them through. On the third day, though, God delivered Benjamin into their hands for victory.
Even after the first and second days of slaughter, Israel continued to trust that God would have their back. They had faith without seeing.
I used to think I had a lot of faith, and at the time I probably did, but now it feels as though I don't know what to trust anymore. I know it should be God, but I still feel like I don't hear Him clearly. It's so confusing.
God, I'm trying to walk in Your ways, but I could use some serious guidance. I don't want to mess everything up.
Amen.
3/13/09
Day 38 - March 13/09
Judges 19
A Levite is staying in Gibeah when the house he is staying at is surrounded by the men of the city who demand to have sex with him. Instead, his concubine is tossed out and they rape her and she dies. In retaliation, he sends a piece of her body to each of the tribes of Israel.
This is only the precursor of the full story, but it just amazes me how such little value was put on the concubine. Although she was only a concubine, her life was considered forfeit.
How do I apply this to me? My life is supposed to be forfeit to God, dying to myself daily. I don't want to be literal with the story, but shouldn't I consider my life as nothing if it means serving Him? I don't know, that's the best I got.
God, show me Your purposes and plans. Help me to daily die to myself and live fully for you. And help me to prioritize in these stressful times.
Amen.
A Levite is staying in Gibeah when the house he is staying at is surrounded by the men of the city who demand to have sex with him. Instead, his concubine is tossed out and they rape her and she dies. In retaliation, he sends a piece of her body to each of the tribes of Israel.
This is only the precursor of the full story, but it just amazes me how such little value was put on the concubine. Although she was only a concubine, her life was considered forfeit.
How do I apply this to me? My life is supposed to be forfeit to God, dying to myself daily. I don't want to be literal with the story, but shouldn't I consider my life as nothing if it means serving Him? I don't know, that's the best I got.
God, show me Your purposes and plans. Help me to daily die to myself and live fully for you. And help me to prioritize in these stressful times.
Amen.
3/11/09
Day 37 - March 11/09
Judges 17, 18
There is no judge or king over Israel, and the people do as they wish. This seems to be a growing theme. Micah builds a shrine with a silver idol and other worshipful things and hires a Levite to be his priest. An army from the tribe of Dan passes through, steals the idols and the priest, and take over some nearby land.
The Israelites at this point are greedy and completely not God-centered. They've probably heard oral stories of what He's done, but they don't live for Him. They worship anything they can get their hands on.
Sometimes I fall victim to paying more attention to certain things than to God. I don't want to continue making that mistake.
God, please help me to focus on you and to always have you at the center of everything I do. Thank you.
Amen.
There is no judge or king over Israel, and the people do as they wish. This seems to be a growing theme. Micah builds a shrine with a silver idol and other worshipful things and hires a Levite to be his priest. An army from the tribe of Dan passes through, steals the idols and the priest, and take over some nearby land.
The Israelites at this point are greedy and completely not God-centered. They've probably heard oral stories of what He's done, but they don't live for Him. They worship anything they can get their hands on.
Sometimes I fall victim to paying more attention to certain things than to God. I don't want to continue making that mistake.
God, please help me to focus on you and to always have you at the center of everything I do. Thank you.
Amen.
3/9/09
Day 36 - March 9/09
Judges 16
Samson first sleeps with a prostitute, then falls in love with another Philistine woman. Delilah, influenced by money and the rulers of her people, begs Samson to tell her the secret of his strength. He lies to her many times, until he finally becomes "tired to death" (16:16). At this point, he reveals that the secret of his strength is in his hair, and Delilah uses it against him to subdue him. When Samson's hair is cut, the Spirit leaves him. When he dies, Samson receives strength one more time, bringing down the temple of the Philistines and killing thousands.
Of all the accounts of the judges, Samson's story seems to be the most messed up. Although he destroyed those who oppressed Israel, he was constantly falling prey to his weakness: foreign women.
We all have weaknesses, and I feel as if I am always falling to the same ones. God can still use me, but I think He'd prefer me obeying Him. It makes me wonder how much more Samson could have accomplished by obeying God rather than constantly seeking vengeance and loving those he was called not to.
God, give me the strength to not give into all the old patterns, but to be constantly following your way.
Amen.
Samson first sleeps with a prostitute, then falls in love with another Philistine woman. Delilah, influenced by money and the rulers of her people, begs Samson to tell her the secret of his strength. He lies to her many times, until he finally becomes "tired to death" (16:16). At this point, he reveals that the secret of his strength is in his hair, and Delilah uses it against him to subdue him. When Samson's hair is cut, the Spirit leaves him. When he dies, Samson receives strength one more time, bringing down the temple of the Philistines and killing thousands.
Of all the accounts of the judges, Samson's story seems to be the most messed up. Although he destroyed those who oppressed Israel, he was constantly falling prey to his weakness: foreign women.
We all have weaknesses, and I feel as if I am always falling to the same ones. God can still use me, but I think He'd prefer me obeying Him. It makes me wonder how much more Samson could have accomplished by obeying God rather than constantly seeking vengeance and loving those he was called not to.
God, give me the strength to not give into all the old patterns, but to be constantly following your way.
Amen.
3/8/09
Day 35 - March 8/09
Judges 13-15
Samson is born, raised, and always seems keen to get himself into trouble. In chapters 14 and 15, he marries a Philistine woman and is deceived by her at his wedding feast. In his anger against those who ask her to betray him, Samson kills thirty men and goes up to his father's house. When he returns for his wife, she has been given away to his friend as a wife. Samson deems himself righteously angry and goes on a killing spree.
Samson chose to do wrong over and over again, such as when he married a woman from the culture his people were enslaved to. He liked the way she looked and chose to base everything on that.
So often I am caught up in my own thoughts and how I feel, but I forget to get God's opinion. He probably knows better than I do what would be good for me.
God, help me to trust you and go with the feelings you give me, not my own selfish feelings. Give me strength when stuff sucks, and when things are beyond my control.
Amen.
Samson is born, raised, and always seems keen to get himself into trouble. In chapters 14 and 15, he marries a Philistine woman and is deceived by her at his wedding feast. In his anger against those who ask her to betray him, Samson kills thirty men and goes up to his father's house. When he returns for his wife, she has been given away to his friend as a wife. Samson deems himself righteously angry and goes on a killing spree.
Samson chose to do wrong over and over again, such as when he married a woman from the culture his people were enslaved to. He liked the way she looked and chose to base everything on that.
So often I am caught up in my own thoughts and how I feel, but I forget to get God's opinion. He probably knows better than I do what would be good for me.
God, help me to trust you and go with the feelings you give me, not my own selfish feelings. Give me strength when stuff sucks, and when things are beyond my control.
Amen.
3/6/09
Day 34 - March 6/09
Judges 12
Civil war breaks out in Israel, between those from Gilead and those from Ephraim. Ephraim is completely annihilated, and Gilead goes on its way. At this point, instead of having gaps between when the judges die and a new one takes over (which always left room for sin and turning from God), there were no gaps and a new judge was constantly ruling.
God was providing judges constantly so the people would always have someone to keep them accountable. He probably got tired of them turning away over and over again, only to have a judge rescue them out of darkness. This way, He kept them in the light.
God is constantly giving me challenges that are keeping me on my toes. Wave upon wave of highs and lows are causing me to constantly call on Him and give everything up to Him. I think He may be doing the same kind of thing: taking preventative action.
God, help me to always be calling on You and trusting in You, whether times are tough or easy, slow going or fast paced. Continue to shape me, through perseverance, into the woman after Your own heart that You have called me to be. Thank you for being with me today, it was HUGELY appreciated.
Amen.
Civil war breaks out in Israel, between those from Gilead and those from Ephraim. Ephraim is completely annihilated, and Gilead goes on its way. At this point, instead of having gaps between when the judges die and a new one takes over (which always left room for sin and turning from God), there were no gaps and a new judge was constantly ruling.
God was providing judges constantly so the people would always have someone to keep them accountable. He probably got tired of them turning away over and over again, only to have a judge rescue them out of darkness. This way, He kept them in the light.
God is constantly giving me challenges that are keeping me on my toes. Wave upon wave of highs and lows are causing me to constantly call on Him and give everything up to Him. I think He may be doing the same kind of thing: taking preventative action.
God, help me to always be calling on You and trusting in You, whether times are tough or easy, slow going or fast paced. Continue to shape me, through perseverance, into the woman after Your own heart that You have called me to be. Thank you for being with me today, it was HUGELY appreciated.
Amen.
3/4/09
Day 33 - March 4/09
Judges 11
"And Jephthah made a vow to the Lord: 'If you give the ammonites into my hands, whatever comes out of my house to meet me when I return in triumph from the Ammonites will be the Lord's, and I will sacrifice it as a burnt offering.'"
Jephthah made a rash vow before God, and it ended up costing him. For his foolishness, when he returned home he was greeted by his only child. She consented to what had to be done to her, was allowed two months in the wilderness to mourn her premature death, and was sacrificed.
I see two parts of this story that apply to me. First, I've tried to bargain with God in the past, or convince Him by promising to give up things without realizing what the consequences may be. I don't know what form that may take, and it should be enough to simply ask God for what it is I need. Second, I don't know if I could ever consent to death the way Jephthah's daughter did. Do I hold back from God, or does my life truly belong to Him?
God, please give me wisdom so that my words aren't rash. Help me to understand Your will and to give up to you everything I'm still holding onto, including my life.
Amen.
"And Jephthah made a vow to the Lord: 'If you give the ammonites into my hands, whatever comes out of my house to meet me when I return in triumph from the Ammonites will be the Lord's, and I will sacrifice it as a burnt offering.'"
Jephthah made a rash vow before God, and it ended up costing him. For his foolishness, when he returned home he was greeted by his only child. She consented to what had to be done to her, was allowed two months in the wilderness to mourn her premature death, and was sacrificed.
I see two parts of this story that apply to me. First, I've tried to bargain with God in the past, or convince Him by promising to give up things without realizing what the consequences may be. I don't know what form that may take, and it should be enough to simply ask God for what it is I need. Second, I don't know if I could ever consent to death the way Jephthah's daughter did. Do I hold back from God, or does my life truly belong to Him?
God, please give me wisdom so that my words aren't rash. Help me to understand Your will and to give up to you everything I'm still holding onto, including my life.
Amen.
3/3/09
Day 32 - March 3/09
Judges 10 (and back from California)
This chapter takes a slightly different twist on the previous cycle. The Israelites do evil and worship foreign gods, they are enslaved, and they cry out to God. Normally at this point, God would raise up a judge to deliver them; however, God says that He has always saved them and is tired of it. He tells them to cry out to the other gods they have chosen to worship and see what good they will do. Finally, the Israelites respond the right way and get rid of their foreign gods and only worship the Lord, crying out to Him in their pain. Because of this, He decides to deliver them.
Even though they are still suffering and God hasn't answered their prayers, the Israelites turn from their foreign gods. That takes faith and hope, trusting that God will come through for them if only they will obey Him.
God gives me chances time and time again, but at some point I think He may hit a point and tell me I'm too stubborn, and I should seek the "gods" I've been worshipping and go to them to make me whole. I need to practice giving up my sin even while I'm in the worst of things, trusting that He will deliver me.
God, please help me to trust you. I suck at giving up my sin until you come right up in my face and tell me to change my ways. I don't want to be that person anymore. Help me, please.
Amen.
This chapter takes a slightly different twist on the previous cycle. The Israelites do evil and worship foreign gods, they are enslaved, and they cry out to God. Normally at this point, God would raise up a judge to deliver them; however, God says that He has always saved them and is tired of it. He tells them to cry out to the other gods they have chosen to worship and see what good they will do. Finally, the Israelites respond the right way and get rid of their foreign gods and only worship the Lord, crying out to Him in their pain. Because of this, He decides to deliver them.
Even though they are still suffering and God hasn't answered their prayers, the Israelites turn from their foreign gods. That takes faith and hope, trusting that God will come through for them if only they will obey Him.
God gives me chances time and time again, but at some point I think He may hit a point and tell me I'm too stubborn, and I should seek the "gods" I've been worshipping and go to them to make me whole. I need to practice giving up my sin even while I'm in the worst of things, trusting that He will deliver me.
God, please help me to trust you. I suck at giving up my sin until you come right up in my face and tell me to change my ways. I don't want to be that person anymore. Help me, please.
Amen.
2/20/09
Day 31 - February 20/09
Judges 9
Abimelech, Gideon's son, decides to be King. He kills his 70 brothers, except Jotham, so that no one can claim the throne. God eventually gets vengeance by killing him after allowing Abimelech to slaughter those in an evil city.
All of the good that Gideon left behind, his 70 sons and his legacy, are smashed by the son of his slave girl. This is a perfect example of how storing up treasures on earth is pointless, because it can so quickly be taken away.
What is on earth is not permanent. If I put more store in the legacy I leave behind than in what I store up with my Father in Heaven, then I've missed the entire point. What is here today has every chance of being gone tomorrow, but what I do for Jesus is never wasted.
God, thank you that you have already set up a place for me where I can be safe from rust and decay. You've given me life abundant, but this isn't when I'm meant to store my worth. Thank you for how you've made me. I don't understand your thoughts, I can't even pretend to, but thanks for giving me a glimpse.
Amen.
Abimelech, Gideon's son, decides to be King. He kills his 70 brothers, except Jotham, so that no one can claim the throne. God eventually gets vengeance by killing him after allowing Abimelech to slaughter those in an evil city.
All of the good that Gideon left behind, his 70 sons and his legacy, are smashed by the son of his slave girl. This is a perfect example of how storing up treasures on earth is pointless, because it can so quickly be taken away.
What is on earth is not permanent. If I put more store in the legacy I leave behind than in what I store up with my Father in Heaven, then I've missed the entire point. What is here today has every chance of being gone tomorrow, but what I do for Jesus is never wasted.
God, thank you that you have already set up a place for me where I can be safe from rust and decay. You've given me life abundant, but this isn't when I'm meant to store my worth. Thank you for how you've made me. I don't understand your thoughts, I can't even pretend to, but thanks for giving me a glimpse.
Amen.
2/19/09
Day 30 - February 19/09
Judges 8
Gideon defeats the Midianites, and in return Israel asks him and his family after him to rule over the country. He humbly rejects their offer and says that only God rules, but instead takes gold from his army and from the kings they defeated in payment. He had the gold melted down into an idol that his family struggled with, because they were inclined to worship it.
Gideon was trying to be so noble and bring honour to God instead of himself, and he ended up failing miserably. He turned to value money more than God, and brought his family into temptation as well.
I don't like to think that I put money in front of God. I am so thankful that He has given me a heart that does not hold on to wealth, but is eager to give to Him. I never want this to change. And I always want all the glory to go to Him.
God, forgive me when I put other things before you. Help me to walk in Your will and not to fall in love with money. You're the only one I want to live for.
Amen.
Gideon defeats the Midianites, and in return Israel asks him and his family after him to rule over the country. He humbly rejects their offer and says that only God rules, but instead takes gold from his army and from the kings they defeated in payment. He had the gold melted down into an idol that his family struggled with, because they were inclined to worship it.
Gideon was trying to be so noble and bring honour to God instead of himself, and he ended up failing miserably. He turned to value money more than God, and brought his family into temptation as well.
I don't like to think that I put money in front of God. I am so thankful that He has given me a heart that does not hold on to wealth, but is eager to give to Him. I never want this to change. And I always want all the glory to go to Him.
God, forgive me when I put other things before you. Help me to walk in Your will and not to fall in love with money. You're the only one I want to live for.
Amen.
2/17/09
Day 29 - February 17/08
Judges 7
God takes Gideon's army and sends nearly everyone home so that he is only left with 300 men. They defeat the Midianite camp, and all the glory goes to God because such a small number could ever defeat such a large army without His help.
God asks for incredible trust. What seems foolish to men is wisdom to God. He can see the end from the beginning, and He is asking Gideon to trust His words. In the end, once again, God comes through. He is even willing to give Gideon another sign before attacking!
I need to trust Him! Even when I don't hear His voice, I need to look to His Word and let that be enough. I don't know what else I can do.
God, I need faith! I need to believe Your words and take them as truth, even when they sound crazy to me. Help me to see the wisdom in Your words.
Amen.
God takes Gideon's army and sends nearly everyone home so that he is only left with 300 men. They defeat the Midianite camp, and all the glory goes to God because such a small number could ever defeat such a large army without His help.
God asks for incredible trust. What seems foolish to men is wisdom to God. He can see the end from the beginning, and He is asking Gideon to trust His words. In the end, once again, God comes through. He is even willing to give Gideon another sign before attacking!
I need to trust Him! Even when I don't hear His voice, I need to look to His Word and let that be enough. I don't know what else I can do.
God, I need faith! I need to believe Your words and take them as truth, even when they sound crazy to me. Help me to see the wisdom in Your words.
Amen.
2/16/09
Day 28 - February 16/09
Judges 6
Again, the Israelites are sinning and God has brought an oppressor upon them: the Midianites. In response to their cries, God first sends an unnamed prophet to speak words of judgment, and then an angel to the house of Gideon. "The Lord is with you" (6:12) is the angel's greeting, and Gideon immediately goes into a complaint typical of people today: if God is with us, why are all these bad things happening; why don't we see miracles like in Moses' day (this is less than a few hundred years later); and, how can I do anything when I am so weak? So Gideon asks for a sign that it's really God, and so God burns up His offering before his eyes. In response, Gideon, on God's commands, destroys the alter of Baal and the Asherah pole. The men want to kill him, but his father convinces them that Baal can seek his own revenge. So God sends Gideon to lead His army, and Gideon again asks for two signs with the fleece on the ground. Every time God comes through.
The Lord was with Gideon. The first words he ever hears from God, and he doubts. Gideon is following God's orders, but under cover of dark or only after many signs and wonders. He doubts when he should be confident in the God who has said He is with him. Gideons' faith is fickle and waivering, but God still uses him.
Somehow, God still uses me. How and why and for what purpose? Who knows. But just as He used Gideon despite his flaws, God can still take my life and make something beautiful come from the wreckage.
God, help me to hear you and trust you without the miracle wonders. Where I have lack of faith, give me more than I could ever dream of. Help me to trust in you, even when it seems impossible.
Amen.
Again, the Israelites are sinning and God has brought an oppressor upon them: the Midianites. In response to their cries, God first sends an unnamed prophet to speak words of judgment, and then an angel to the house of Gideon. "The Lord is with you" (6:12) is the angel's greeting, and Gideon immediately goes into a complaint typical of people today: if God is with us, why are all these bad things happening; why don't we see miracles like in Moses' day (this is less than a few hundred years later); and, how can I do anything when I am so weak? So Gideon asks for a sign that it's really God, and so God burns up His offering before his eyes. In response, Gideon, on God's commands, destroys the alter of Baal and the Asherah pole. The men want to kill him, but his father convinces them that Baal can seek his own revenge. So God sends Gideon to lead His army, and Gideon again asks for two signs with the fleece on the ground. Every time God comes through.
The Lord was with Gideon. The first words he ever hears from God, and he doubts. Gideon is following God's orders, but under cover of dark or only after many signs and wonders. He doubts when he should be confident in the God who has said He is with him. Gideons' faith is fickle and waivering, but God still uses him.
Somehow, God still uses me. How and why and for what purpose? Who knows. But just as He used Gideon despite his flaws, God can still take my life and make something beautiful come from the wreckage.
God, help me to hear you and trust you without the miracle wonders. Where I have lack of faith, give me more than I could ever dream of. Help me to trust in you, even when it seems impossible.
Amen.
2/15/09
Day 27 - February 15/09
Proverbs 2
How to attain wisdom and fear of God:
- store up the commands of Proverbs in your heart
- turn your ear to wisdom
- apply your heart to understanding
- call out for insight
- cry aloud for understanding
God gives wisdom to those who ask for it. When we cry out for it, long for it, and apply it when given, God graciously gives it. He does not require much, just a willing heart and the humbleness to ask.
Wisdom is something I have always sought after, but I've never really been sure how to gain it. Over time I've found verses that point toward it, but this is pretty clear. Getting myself to a place of fearing God is another thing that's been on my mind a lot, so this is giving me lots of ponder.
God, I don't know how to fear You. I don't even know what it would look like. Show me?
How to attain wisdom and fear of God:
- store up the commands of Proverbs in your heart
- turn your ear to wisdom
- apply your heart to understanding
- call out for insight
- cry aloud for understanding
God gives wisdom to those who ask for it. When we cry out for it, long for it, and apply it when given, God graciously gives it. He does not require much, just a willing heart and the humbleness to ask.
Wisdom is something I have always sought after, but I've never really been sure how to gain it. Over time I've found verses that point toward it, but this is pretty clear. Getting myself to a place of fearing God is another thing that's been on my mind a lot, so this is giving me lots of ponder.
God, I don't know how to fear You. I don't even know what it would look like. Show me?
2/14/09
Day 26 - February 14/09
Psalm 8
"When I consider your heavens, the work of your fingers, the moon and the stars, which you have set in place, what is man that you are mindful of him...?" (8:3-4a).
God made everything. Everything we see, everything we touch, everything we take in through our God-given senses are His handiwork. He took the time to form every star, every galaxy. His fingerprints are on everything.
I am His handiwork. He loves me. Yet who am I that He's mindful of me? That's been my biggest internal struggle lately. I can comprehend Him dying for the world and wanting to be in relationship with all of mankind...but not with me. How crazy is that. But He made all these things, and He calls me the pinnacle of His creation. Me. Crazy.
God, help me comprehend your love. I cannot do it on my own.
"When I consider your heavens, the work of your fingers, the moon and the stars, which you have set in place, what is man that you are mindful of him...?" (8:3-4a).
God made everything. Everything we see, everything we touch, everything we take in through our God-given senses are His handiwork. He took the time to form every star, every galaxy. His fingerprints are on everything.
I am His handiwork. He loves me. Yet who am I that He's mindful of me? That's been my biggest internal struggle lately. I can comprehend Him dying for the world and wanting to be in relationship with all of mankind...but not with me. How crazy is that. But He made all these things, and He calls me the pinnacle of His creation. Me. Crazy.
God, help me comprehend your love. I cannot do it on my own.
2/13/09
Day 25 - February 13/09
Judges 5
This chapter is a song sung by Deborah and Barak after their victory. They talk about the entire battle and all that happened. At the very end, it switches back to narrative and we are informed that "the land had peace for forty years" (5:31b).
This song is a tribute to all God has done. Once again, everything foretold has happened and God has come through for His people. He never fails them! They become upset with Him and cry out for help when they're in trouble, but EVERY TIME it's in response to their turning from Him. At the end of this ordeal, only again they see His power and turn back to Him, with forty years of resulting peace. My guess is that the next chapter will reveal why it was only forty years.
I'm always so grateful when God releases me from bondage, but then I forget what He has done. It doesn't take me a full lifetime to turn from Him again. I look at the three steps from yesterday, and see them again in my own life. I need to work on breaking the cycle and allowing my life to be holy before Him.
God, please help me break this cycle. Kill this thing inside me that lets me continue to go on sinning, even when I see your great mercy and redemptive powers. I should be so thankful that I never turn from You again! Help me. I cannot do this on my own.
This chapter is a song sung by Deborah and Barak after their victory. They talk about the entire battle and all that happened. At the very end, it switches back to narrative and we are informed that "the land had peace for forty years" (5:31b).
This song is a tribute to all God has done. Once again, everything foretold has happened and God has come through for His people. He never fails them! They become upset with Him and cry out for help when they're in trouble, but EVERY TIME it's in response to their turning from Him. At the end of this ordeal, only again they see His power and turn back to Him, with forty years of resulting peace. My guess is that the next chapter will reveal why it was only forty years.
I'm always so grateful when God releases me from bondage, but then I forget what He has done. It doesn't take me a full lifetime to turn from Him again. I look at the three steps from yesterday, and see them again in my own life. I need to work on breaking the cycle and allowing my life to be holy before Him.
God, please help me break this cycle. Kill this thing inside me that lets me continue to go on sinning, even when I see your great mercy and redemptive powers. I should be so thankful that I never turn from You again! Help me. I cannot do this on my own.
2/12/09
Day 24 - February 12/09
Judges 1-4
These first four chapters begin a pattern that will continue through most of Israel's history.
1. The Israelites do evil in the sight of the Lord.
2. God becomes angry and hands them over to a foreign nation.
3. The people cry out, and God redeems them (usually through a judge or king).
Then, as long as the redeemer is alive, the people abide by God's laws and live devoted to Him. As soon as new generation rises up who does not know what God has done, the pattern starts again.
Somehow, the problem seems to come when all who lived during the time of God's redemption die and a new generation is alive. Somewhere along the way, the mightiness of God is not passed down through the generations. As long as Israel obeys, God allows them to live in the land, but the second they don't He has them removed or occupied. You'd think they would learn.
You'd think I would learn. How many times have I disobeyed and had to live with consequences, only to go back and do the same thing the second I'm forgiven? Thankfully, God is merciful and forgives me time and time again.
God, please help me to learn from these passages. Don't let my heart be hardened to the truth you're trying to reveal to me. I am pathetic at living up to Your calling, but I'm asking for You to be my strength every single day. I need it to be the person You want me to be.
Amen.
He loves me where I'm at, but refuses to leave me there. What an amazing God.
These first four chapters begin a pattern that will continue through most of Israel's history.
1. The Israelites do evil in the sight of the Lord.
2. God becomes angry and hands them over to a foreign nation.
3. The people cry out, and God redeems them (usually through a judge or king).
Then, as long as the redeemer is alive, the people abide by God's laws and live devoted to Him. As soon as new generation rises up who does not know what God has done, the pattern starts again.
Somehow, the problem seems to come when all who lived during the time of God's redemption die and a new generation is alive. Somewhere along the way, the mightiness of God is not passed down through the generations. As long as Israel obeys, God allows them to live in the land, but the second they don't He has them removed or occupied. You'd think they would learn.
You'd think I would learn. How many times have I disobeyed and had to live with consequences, only to go back and do the same thing the second I'm forgiven? Thankfully, God is merciful and forgives me time and time again.
God, please help me to learn from these passages. Don't let my heart be hardened to the truth you're trying to reveal to me. I am pathetic at living up to Your calling, but I'm asking for You to be my strength every single day. I need it to be the person You want me to be.
Amen.
He loves me where I'm at, but refuses to leave me there. What an amazing God.
2/11/09
Day 23 - February 11/09
Joshua 23 & 24
Joshua is now very old and knows that he will soon die. He sends for all the leaders of various kinds from all over Israel and gives them instructions on how to live. Joshua brings up once again all the ways God has kept His promises to them, and how, if they continue to abide in His law, they will have life to the fullest in the land and their enemies will continue to fall before them. However, if they do not obey the Lord, their enemies will trap them into worshiping other gods and will bring God's wrath down upon them. Then Joshua calls all the people to him, speaks a brief message of God's faithfulness, and asks the people if they will enter into covenant with Him. The people choose to throw away their other gods and only serve God. A list of laws is drawn up, a stone is set to remind them of their words, and the people are sent back to their land. At this time Joshua dies and is buried in the Promised Land.
At one point Joshua is telling Israel that they have their choice who they will serve. After all God has done for them, they can either choose Him or any god they want, but it is on them. His final statement, however, is: "But as for me and my house, we will serve the Lord" (24:15b). It's a strong proclamation to declare allegiance from his entire family, but Joshua does it. He is being an example to the people of how to live before God: recklessly abandoned.
I want to live reckless before God! I want to be abandoned to His will and stop thinking about my own wants. He is so much bigger than me and has so many plans, yet I don't fully let Him in. He took care of Israel even in their times of greatest rebellion. I'd like to think He'll still look out for me too.
I like this praying-typing thing. I think I'll keep it up for a bit and see how it goes.
Dear God, give me the perseverance to always put You before me and to trust that you will take care of me through the rough times. Just as the man with a son who was full of evil spirits cried out: "I do believe, help my unbelief!" (9:24), please give me the faith to go on believing in you during the dry times. Please show me how to walk in Your ways. For Israel, it was only serving you. Help me to turn away from the things that would keep me from drawing near to you.
Amen.
Joshua is now very old and knows that he will soon die. He sends for all the leaders of various kinds from all over Israel and gives them instructions on how to live. Joshua brings up once again all the ways God has kept His promises to them, and how, if they continue to abide in His law, they will have life to the fullest in the land and their enemies will continue to fall before them. However, if they do not obey the Lord, their enemies will trap them into worshiping other gods and will bring God's wrath down upon them. Then Joshua calls all the people to him, speaks a brief message of God's faithfulness, and asks the people if they will enter into covenant with Him. The people choose to throw away their other gods and only serve God. A list of laws is drawn up, a stone is set to remind them of their words, and the people are sent back to their land. At this time Joshua dies and is buried in the Promised Land.
At one point Joshua is telling Israel that they have their choice who they will serve. After all God has done for them, they can either choose Him or any god they want, but it is on them. His final statement, however, is: "But as for me and my house, we will serve the Lord" (24:15b). It's a strong proclamation to declare allegiance from his entire family, but Joshua does it. He is being an example to the people of how to live before God: recklessly abandoned.
I want to live reckless before God! I want to be abandoned to His will and stop thinking about my own wants. He is so much bigger than me and has so many plans, yet I don't fully let Him in. He took care of Israel even in their times of greatest rebellion. I'd like to think He'll still look out for me too.
I like this praying-typing thing. I think I'll keep it up for a bit and see how it goes.
Dear God, give me the perseverance to always put You before me and to trust that you will take care of me through the rough times. Just as the man with a son who was full of evil spirits cried out: "I do believe, help my unbelief!" (9:24), please give me the faith to go on believing in you during the dry times. Please show me how to walk in Your ways. For Israel, it was only serving you. Help me to turn away from the things that would keep me from drawing near to you.
Amen.
2/10/09
Day 22 - February 10/09
Joshua 22
Now that the land of Israel has been completely occupied, the men from Reuben, Gad and Manasseh have been released from their duties and are being sent home to their families with the spoils of war. As soon as they cross the Jordan River, the three tribes immediately set about building an altar. The other tribes, thinking their brothers had turned to foreign gods, set after them to declare war. They were so upset by the apparent betrayal of the Lord, that they went as far as to say that if it was the land causing Reuben, Gad and Manasseh to stumble, the rest of Israel would gladly give them part of their own inheritance to stop them from sinning. Thankfully, the three tribes were able to respond and explain how the altar was meant to represent their allegiance to God, not to present offerings to other gods.
The Israelites may have jumped to quick conclusions about their brothers, but they had just concern. If we sent missionaries off to another country and the first thing we hear is about them building altars, we'd probably be a little bit concerned. So, in the fashion of the day, the Israelites made plans to go to war. They felt that they were defending God, and were even willing to go so far as to kill their own family.
For me, this brings up two issues.
1. Jesus tells us in the New Testament that we must love Him more than parents, siblings, spouses and children. Here we have an equivalent example from way back in the day. These men, despite their allegiance to family, were willing to kill nearly 10% of their entire country off because they felt that strongly about God. What a way to live, with that much passion!
2. This is also an excellent example of giving others a chance to speak before assuming the worst. Although Israel was assuming that Reuben, Gad and Manasseh were worshipping other gods, they allowed them to defend themselves before going to war and probably condemning all of them to death. I know that in my own life I need to not be so quick to judge.
So someone suggested that I actually type out my prayer to God. I figure I'll give it a go.
Dear God, please give me the wisdom to know when I actually need to call someone out on something, and when I'm completely blowing the situation out of proportion. Patience to listen to their defense and open ears would be awesome, too. Also, continue to help me to have the perseverance to see these devotions through every day, even when life gets crazy. Help me to get the most out of Your Word that I possibly can, and give me insight so that I can help others with the things I'm learning.
Amen.
Now that the land of Israel has been completely occupied, the men from Reuben, Gad and Manasseh have been released from their duties and are being sent home to their families with the spoils of war. As soon as they cross the Jordan River, the three tribes immediately set about building an altar. The other tribes, thinking their brothers had turned to foreign gods, set after them to declare war. They were so upset by the apparent betrayal of the Lord, that they went as far as to say that if it was the land causing Reuben, Gad and Manasseh to stumble, the rest of Israel would gladly give them part of their own inheritance to stop them from sinning. Thankfully, the three tribes were able to respond and explain how the altar was meant to represent their allegiance to God, not to present offerings to other gods.
The Israelites may have jumped to quick conclusions about their brothers, but they had just concern. If we sent missionaries off to another country and the first thing we hear is about them building altars, we'd probably be a little bit concerned. So, in the fashion of the day, the Israelites made plans to go to war. They felt that they were defending God, and were even willing to go so far as to kill their own family.
For me, this brings up two issues.
1. Jesus tells us in the New Testament that we must love Him more than parents, siblings, spouses and children. Here we have an equivalent example from way back in the day. These men, despite their allegiance to family, were willing to kill nearly 10% of their entire country off because they felt that strongly about God. What a way to live, with that much passion!
2. This is also an excellent example of giving others a chance to speak before assuming the worst. Although Israel was assuming that Reuben, Gad and Manasseh were worshipping other gods, they allowed them to defend themselves before going to war and probably condemning all of them to death. I know that in my own life I need to not be so quick to judge.
So someone suggested that I actually type out my prayer to God. I figure I'll give it a go.
Dear God, please give me the wisdom to know when I actually need to call someone out on something, and when I'm completely blowing the situation out of proportion. Patience to listen to their defense and open ears would be awesome, too. Also, continue to help me to have the perseverance to see these devotions through every day, even when life gets crazy. Help me to get the most out of Your Word that I possibly can, and give me insight so that I can help others with the things I'm learning.
Amen.
2/9/09
Day 21 - February 9/09
Joshua 21
The Levites are being presented with their pieces of land, a few of them being cities of refuge, just as God promised. Rather than being given a large territory of land like the other tribe, the Levites had towns within the other tribes' areas. At the end of the list of cities is the declaration that all things that God promised had been fulfilled.
God keeps His promises. What I've been learning is that even when I don't hear Him in the moment, that doesn't make His promises from the past any less true. It's in those times that I need to hold onto them; full of hope that He will fulfill what He has promised.
Also read today: Luke 1
The Levites are being presented with their pieces of land, a few of them being cities of refuge, just as God promised. Rather than being given a large territory of land like the other tribe, the Levites had towns within the other tribes' areas. At the end of the list of cities is the declaration that all things that God promised had been fulfilled.
God keeps His promises. What I've been learning is that even when I don't hear Him in the moment, that doesn't make His promises from the past any less true. It's in those times that I need to hold onto them; full of hope that He will fulfill what He has promised.
Also read today: Luke 1
2/8/09
Day 20 - February 8/09
Joshua 20
This chapter is about the cities of refuge set up throughout Israel so that if someone accidentally kills another, he can flee to one of those cities. By their law, if he does not flee and someone thinks he is guilty, they have the right to murder him.
When I was younger I used to go to this camp during the summer, and two of our cabins, Hebron and Bezer, were named after cities of refuge. I'm sure this wasn't by accident.
God always provides a way out for us in temptation and, from the looks of it, He also provides a way out for those who are falsely accused or genuinely did something wrong without meaning to. It's so fascinating to me how trials were done by prayer, and God, unless the High Priest was corrupted, had the final say in all matters. So if they were following the right protocol, whatever that may be, to find out what He wanted, then there should never have been false convictions.
Right now, I don't hear God's voice, and it's the strangest thing for me to not have His voice in my head all the time. But life isn't lived in the high times; life is all about when we're down in the dumps, "up to our knees in mud...." I need to persevere through this season and trust in who I know He is, even when I can't hear Him right now. I'm standing at the gate of the city, waiting to be let in so that I can sit in His refuge.
This chapter is about the cities of refuge set up throughout Israel so that if someone accidentally kills another, he can flee to one of those cities. By their law, if he does not flee and someone thinks he is guilty, they have the right to murder him.
When I was younger I used to go to this camp during the summer, and two of our cabins, Hebron and Bezer, were named after cities of refuge. I'm sure this wasn't by accident.
God always provides a way out for us in temptation and, from the looks of it, He also provides a way out for those who are falsely accused or genuinely did something wrong without meaning to. It's so fascinating to me how trials were done by prayer, and God, unless the High Priest was corrupted, had the final say in all matters. So if they were following the right protocol, whatever that may be, to find out what He wanted, then there should never have been false convictions.
Right now, I don't hear God's voice, and it's the strangest thing for me to not have His voice in my head all the time. But life isn't lived in the high times; life is all about when we're down in the dumps, "up to our knees in mud...." I need to persevere through this season and trust in who I know He is, even when I can't hear Him right now. I'm standing at the gate of the city, waiting to be let in so that I can sit in His refuge.
2/5/09
Day 19 - February 5/09
Psalm 130
This psalm is so humble and full of praise and awe. The author is crying out for mercy from the depths...of despair? of depression? of possible death? There is thanksgiving for God's grace and forgiveness of sins, because otherwise no one on earth would ever be able to stand before the Lord. The psalmist's soul is waiting on God, and in the meantime putting his hope in the Word. Israel is told to put all her hope in God, because He is the only one who can redeem her from her sins.
So many of the words and phrases are interesting, in choice and in placement. Verses three and four state that BECAUSE God is forgiving, He is feared. At first this didn't make sense to me, but the best I can gather is that because He is the forgiving One, we should live in holy awe of Him because He has the power to give and withhold forgiveness. Verse six is about the soul waiting for God "more than watchmen wait for the morning, more than watchmen wait for the morning." My guess is that these watchmen would probably be exhausted from lack of sleep and waiting desperately for the sun to rise; yet, we are called to wait on God with even more fervor than those who have nothing to live for except the morning sunlight spilling over the mountain tops.
I need to ask God for a desire to wait on Him. I need the holy fear of God put inside of me. When did I stop waiting on Him for every decision, even down to the smallest choice? There is a lot missing when I stop living my life for Him. Breathing for myself is doing nothing but wasting air.
This psalm is so humble and full of praise and awe. The author is crying out for mercy from the depths...of despair? of depression? of possible death? There is thanksgiving for God's grace and forgiveness of sins, because otherwise no one on earth would ever be able to stand before the Lord. The psalmist's soul is waiting on God, and in the meantime putting his hope in the Word. Israel is told to put all her hope in God, because He is the only one who can redeem her from her sins.
So many of the words and phrases are interesting, in choice and in placement. Verses three and four state that BECAUSE God is forgiving, He is feared. At first this didn't make sense to me, but the best I can gather is that because He is the forgiving One, we should live in holy awe of Him because He has the power to give and withhold forgiveness. Verse six is about the soul waiting for God "more than watchmen wait for the morning, more than watchmen wait for the morning." My guess is that these watchmen would probably be exhausted from lack of sleep and waiting desperately for the sun to rise; yet, we are called to wait on God with even more fervor than those who have nothing to live for except the morning sunlight spilling over the mountain tops.
I need to ask God for a desire to wait on Him. I need the holy fear of God put inside of me. When did I stop waiting on Him for every decision, even down to the smallest choice? There is a lot missing when I stop living my life for Him. Breathing for myself is doing nothing but wasting air.
2/4/09
Day 18 - February 4/09
Joshua 19
This is the chapter where the rest of the tribes receive their inheritance. The remaining tribes are, in order of the casting of lots: Simeon, Zebulun, Issachar, Asher, Naphtali and Dan. Simeon's land was interesting because it was taken out of the land already allotted for Judah, because Judah had more than enough territory. Once all the tribes have been assigned to their land, Joshua is given his own town.
God is faithful. He doesn't let them forget any of the small stuff. No one is unaccounted for. God does not misplace anyone on this earth, including me. Even if I don't notice someone, God still does. I need to be more aware of those around me. God loves them, so why don't I?
This is the chapter where the rest of the tribes receive their inheritance. The remaining tribes are, in order of the casting of lots: Simeon, Zebulun, Issachar, Asher, Naphtali and Dan. Simeon's land was interesting because it was taken out of the land already allotted for Judah, because Judah had more than enough territory. Once all the tribes have been assigned to their land, Joshua is given his own town.
God is faithful. He doesn't let them forget any of the small stuff. No one is unaccounted for. God does not misplace anyone on this earth, including me. Even if I don't notice someone, God still does. I need to be more aware of those around me. God loves them, so why don't I?
2/3/09
Day 17 - February 3/09
Joshua 18
At this point in the story, there are still seven tribes that have not received their land. Joshua sends out three men from each remaining tribe to scout out the land and divide it into seven equal parts. Once they return with the descriptions of the land and their new borders, Joshua casts lots for which tribe will live where. The first tribe to be picked was Benjamin, which received the territory between Joseph and Judah. Benjamin's territory included the city of Jericho.
At first when I started reading this passage, I got the impression that the men would go out from each tribe and choose where they wanted to live. As I continued to read, however, I realized that they had to actually divide up the land evenly because they did not know to which tribe each plot of land would go.
I hate the entire idea of casting lots. This is probably because I like to have control over situations, especially something as serious as the location of my people for, what I at the time perceive to be, forever. Although I have become fairly good at giving things up to God once I wrap my head around the idea of Him knowing what's best for me, but leaving it up to Him by lots just seems so...I don't know. Maybe I just don't trust Him enough yet.
At this point in the story, there are still seven tribes that have not received their land. Joshua sends out three men from each remaining tribe to scout out the land and divide it into seven equal parts. Once they return with the descriptions of the land and their new borders, Joshua casts lots for which tribe will live where. The first tribe to be picked was Benjamin, which received the territory between Joseph and Judah. Benjamin's territory included the city of Jericho.
At first when I started reading this passage, I got the impression that the men would go out from each tribe and choose where they wanted to live. As I continued to read, however, I realized that they had to actually divide up the land evenly because they did not know to which tribe each plot of land would go.
I hate the entire idea of casting lots. This is probably because I like to have control over situations, especially something as serious as the location of my people for, what I at the time perceive to be, forever. Although I have become fairly good at giving things up to God once I wrap my head around the idea of Him knowing what's best for me, but leaving it up to Him by lots just seems so...I don't know. Maybe I just don't trust Him enough yet.
2/2/09
Day 16 - February 2/09
Joshua 16 & 17
These two chapters consist of the land disbursement of Ephraim and Manasseh, the two half-tribes deriving from Joseph. The first story that struck me was that of the five daughters of Zelophehad who, because they had no brothers, asked for their own portion of land and it was given to them. Second, the sons of Joseph came before Joshua and said that even though they were one tribe, they were a numerous people who did not have enough room in the land they were given. Because of their request, Joshua also permitted for them to have the entire hill country as well.
I also found some challenging parts in this passage. The men of Ephraim failed to drive the Canaanites out of the land, so they were made laborers instead. Once again, they do not have enough faith to follow through and trust that God will take care of them and give the victory. Then, when they are given the hill country, Joseph's tribe complains that the Canaanites living there have chariots and will never be driven out. Joshua tells them to get their act together and fight for their land.
In both of the first situations I mentioned, the people asked and they received. God never withholds good things from His children who love and obey Him! Sometimes it may seem like He isn't giving us what we want, but that's only because He knows far better than we do what will be good for us. I suck at trusting that He has better things coming for me. And I'm terrible at asking for what I really want. I think I need to start praying a lot more.
These two chapters consist of the land disbursement of Ephraim and Manasseh, the two half-tribes deriving from Joseph. The first story that struck me was that of the five daughters of Zelophehad who, because they had no brothers, asked for their own portion of land and it was given to them. Second, the sons of Joseph came before Joshua and said that even though they were one tribe, they were a numerous people who did not have enough room in the land they were given. Because of their request, Joshua also permitted for them to have the entire hill country as well.
I also found some challenging parts in this passage. The men of Ephraim failed to drive the Canaanites out of the land, so they were made laborers instead. Once again, they do not have enough faith to follow through and trust that God will take care of them and give the victory. Then, when they are given the hill country, Joseph's tribe complains that the Canaanites living there have chariots and will never be driven out. Joshua tells them to get their act together and fight for their land.
In both of the first situations I mentioned, the people asked and they received. God never withholds good things from His children who love and obey Him! Sometimes it may seem like He isn't giving us what we want, but that's only because He knows far better than we do what will be good for us. I suck at trusting that He has better things coming for me. And I'm terrible at asking for what I really want. I think I need to start praying a lot more.
2/1/09
Day 15 - February 1/09
Psalm 105
This passage is all about remember how wonderful God is, and being glad that He is so good. The psalmist recounts the plagues of Egypt and how God redeemed His people and made His name known throughout the land. At the end, it says that He gave the land that was promised to the Israelites "so that they might keep His statutes and observe His laws" (105:45a).
God didn't deliver the Israelites into a land of their own so that they could worship false gods, do as they pleased, or be "happy." He is concerned with a life lived in obedience and reverence for Him.
I've finally faced up to the convictions God has been laying on my heart. He did not give me breath in my body to use it for however I deem fit; He has such amazing plans for me, if I will only surrender to His will and let go. Unless my hands are open, how can He put anything into them? But that means letting go of what I was holding onto so tightly and letting Him have the steering wheel.
This passage is all about remember how wonderful God is, and being glad that He is so good. The psalmist recounts the plagues of Egypt and how God redeemed His people and made His name known throughout the land. At the end, it says that He gave the land that was promised to the Israelites "so that they might keep His statutes and observe His laws" (105:45a).
God didn't deliver the Israelites into a land of their own so that they could worship false gods, do as they pleased, or be "happy." He is concerned with a life lived in obedience and reverence for Him.
I've finally faced up to the convictions God has been laying on my heart. He did not give me breath in my body to use it for however I deem fit; He has such amazing plans for me, if I will only surrender to His will and let go. Unless my hands are open, how can He put anything into them? But that means letting go of what I was holding onto so tightly and letting Him have the steering wheel.
1/31/09
Day 14 - January 31/09
Joshua 15
This is an account of the borders of the land of Judah, given by God as their inheritance. It also lists all the cities and towns within their land. Then, at the end, this verse: "Now as for the Jebusites, the inhabitants of Jerusalem, the sons of Judah could not drive them out; so the Jebusites live with the sons of Judah at Jerusalem until this day. (15:63)"
My question is why they were not able to be driven out? Did the Judahites simply become too lazy, or were they afraid of going to war against a tiny outpost of people? I'm just wondering why they did not trust God and drive out all nations as He told them to.
Then I look at my life. God asks me to drive everything unholy from my life, and what do I do? I pull a Judah. I allow things that should have been gone a long time ago to sit and fester within me, causing a huge problem. Just as the Jebusites will later convince the Israelites to worship false gods, the wrongs within me are daily convincing me that there's no hope and I might as well give in. If I don't purge my system, it will eat away at me from the inside out.
This is an account of the borders of the land of Judah, given by God as their inheritance. It also lists all the cities and towns within their land. Then, at the end, this verse: "Now as for the Jebusites, the inhabitants of Jerusalem, the sons of Judah could not drive them out; so the Jebusites live with the sons of Judah at Jerusalem until this day. (15:63)"
My question is why they were not able to be driven out? Did the Judahites simply become too lazy, or were they afraid of going to war against a tiny outpost of people? I'm just wondering why they did not trust God and drive out all nations as He told them to.
Then I look at my life. God asks me to drive everything unholy from my life, and what do I do? I pull a Judah. I allow things that should have been gone a long time ago to sit and fester within me, causing a huge problem. Just as the Jebusites will later convince the Israelites to worship false gods, the wrongs within me are daily convincing me that there's no hope and I might as well give in. If I don't purge my system, it will eat away at me from the inside out.
1/29/09
Day 13 - January 29/09
Joshua 14
The land is being divided up, and Caleb comes to Joshua to ask for a piece of land. He is the Caleb who was one of the twelve sent to spy on the land before wandering in the desert. As a kept promise from God, he was the only one of that generation besides Joshua allowed to live and enter the land. So Joshua gave him the hill country he requested.
God remained faithful to Caleb because he was on God's side. He trusted God all those years in the desert, as well as the five years after entering the land. He put his trust completely in God and He honoured Caleb's commitment.
I get impatient waiting on God's promises for even a few weeks. The longest one I've been waiting on so far has been just over two years, and several times I've almost given up. It is beyond my comprehension waiting on God to come through on His promise for forty-five years. Maybe it's just that I'm still too young to understand that amount of time, or value it, but maybe that's what God is trying to teach me. Patience. Trust. The same themes over and over again. When will I finally get it through my head and my heart?
The land is being divided up, and Caleb comes to Joshua to ask for a piece of land. He is the Caleb who was one of the twelve sent to spy on the land before wandering in the desert. As a kept promise from God, he was the only one of that generation besides Joshua allowed to live and enter the land. So Joshua gave him the hill country he requested.
God remained faithful to Caleb because he was on God's side. He trusted God all those years in the desert, as well as the five years after entering the land. He put his trust completely in God and He honoured Caleb's commitment.
I get impatient waiting on God's promises for even a few weeks. The longest one I've been waiting on so far has been just over two years, and several times I've almost given up. It is beyond my comprehension waiting on God to come through on His promise for forty-five years. Maybe it's just that I'm still too young to understand that amount of time, or value it, but maybe that's what God is trying to teach me. Patience. Trust. The same themes over and over again. When will I finally get it through my head and my heart?
1/28/09
Day 12 - January 28/09
Psalm 62
"My soul waits in silence for God only" (62:1).
David is waiting for something. He's not quite sure what shape his refuge and salvation will take, but he knows that it will only come from God. At one point he is commanding his soul to wait on God alone, because it is only He who brings hope.
David had the right idea. He knew that putting trust in money or people or the rulers of this earth would never be a firm foundation.
My favourite part is when David says: "He only...is my stronghold; I shall not be greatly shaken" (62:2). He doesn't try to pretend that he will never be shaken by the troubles that come into his path, but He knows that because God is what he can hold onto, he will never be greatly shaken.
When I read this psalm, I get a peace inside me in a place that I sometimes forget exists. It's somewhere between my heart and my soul, where only God knows the password. When I finally invite Him over, He comes in and brings with Him the most wonderful feeling of wholeness. I want my soul to only ever long for Him. I am going to make it my mission to only ever long for Him in that place.
"My soul waits in silence for God only" (62:1).
David is waiting for something. He's not quite sure what shape his refuge and salvation will take, but he knows that it will only come from God. At one point he is commanding his soul to wait on God alone, because it is only He who brings hope.
David had the right idea. He knew that putting trust in money or people or the rulers of this earth would never be a firm foundation.
My favourite part is when David says: "He only...is my stronghold; I shall not be greatly shaken" (62:2). He doesn't try to pretend that he will never be shaken by the troubles that come into his path, but He knows that because God is what he can hold onto, he will never be greatly shaken.
When I read this psalm, I get a peace inside me in a place that I sometimes forget exists. It's somewhere between my heart and my soul, where only God knows the password. When I finally invite Him over, He comes in and brings with Him the most wonderful feeling of wholeness. I want my soul to only ever long for Him. I am going to make it my mission to only ever long for Him in that place.
1/26/09
Day 11 - January 26/09
Joshua 12 & 13
The first chapter is simply an impressive list of all the kings that the Israelites, under Moses and Joshua, have defeated. Because Joshua is getting old, God commands that all the land be divided amongst the tribes. He reiterates the division of the land across the Jordan for the Reubenites, the Gadites, and the half tribe of Manasseh. After He has laid these boundaries out, He once again says:
"But to the tribe of Levi, Moses did not give an inheritance; the Lord, the God of Israel, is their inheritance, as He had promised to them."
I don't want to take this verse out of context, and I definitely don't want to be applying something that isn't there, but when I read this verse, I see something that I've never seen before. God gives us Himself as our inheritance. His eternal kingdom is our inheritance. And, like the other tribes received, I think sometimes God gives us a piece of land. He says: "Leanne, I've given you ________ (any given place, let's say Surrey), and the people who live here are under your responsibility. Help them find Me." Am I crazy to think this?
I think God loves it when I am so wrapped up in Him that I forget about the gifts He gives; when I seek His face and not His hand. He has been teaching me this so much lately. I want to be looking for who He is, not what He is doing for me.
The first chapter is simply an impressive list of all the kings that the Israelites, under Moses and Joshua, have defeated. Because Joshua is getting old, God commands that all the land be divided amongst the tribes. He reiterates the division of the land across the Jordan for the Reubenites, the Gadites, and the half tribe of Manasseh. After He has laid these boundaries out, He once again says:
"But to the tribe of Levi, Moses did not give an inheritance; the Lord, the God of Israel, is their inheritance, as He had promised to them."
I don't want to take this verse out of context, and I definitely don't want to be applying something that isn't there, but when I read this verse, I see something that I've never seen before. God gives us Himself as our inheritance. His eternal kingdom is our inheritance. And, like the other tribes received, I think sometimes God gives us a piece of land. He says: "Leanne, I've given you ________ (any given place, let's say Surrey), and the people who live here are under your responsibility. Help them find Me." Am I crazy to think this?
I think God loves it when I am so wrapped up in Him that I forget about the gifts He gives; when I seek His face and not His hand. He has been teaching me this so much lately. I want to be looking for who He is, not what He is doing for me.
1/25/09
Day 10 - January 25/09
Joshua 11
The rest of the kings in the land that will soon become Israel try to defeat Israel, some together and some alone, and all end up failing. God tells Joshua where to go and what to do, and it gets done. The text even says that God hardened the hearts of those kings so that they foolishly rode into battle against Joshua. God was exacting vengeance on the lands of those who had been living in ways that were not pleasing to Him. For this reason, God did not allow them to leave any person alive, because those people might lead them into the temptation of worshiping false gods.
God is not cruel and He does not act out of hatred, but rather from justice. These people didn't all fall before Israel because Israel wanted to move in; they had fallen painfully short of the mark and God wasn't going to allow them to live that way any longer. When Ninevah realized the folly of its ways and turned to God, He treated them with mercy and allowed them to live. Obviously God knew the shape of the hearts of these kings and realized that no sign or prophet would change how they were living.
When most bad things happen in my life, they are of my own making. I lie, so there are consequences. I do things that I know aren't pleasing to God, and He doesn't reward me for those actions. If I want His gifts and His blessings, I need to be living a life that is pleasing in His sight.
The rest of the kings in the land that will soon become Israel try to defeat Israel, some together and some alone, and all end up failing. God tells Joshua where to go and what to do, and it gets done. The text even says that God hardened the hearts of those kings so that they foolishly rode into battle against Joshua. God was exacting vengeance on the lands of those who had been living in ways that were not pleasing to Him. For this reason, God did not allow them to leave any person alive, because those people might lead them into the temptation of worshiping false gods.
God is not cruel and He does not act out of hatred, but rather from justice. These people didn't all fall before Israel because Israel wanted to move in; they had fallen painfully short of the mark and God wasn't going to allow them to live that way any longer. When Ninevah realized the folly of its ways and turned to God, He treated them with mercy and allowed them to live. Obviously God knew the shape of the hearts of these kings and realized that no sign or prophet would change how they were living.
When most bad things happen in my life, they are of my own making. I lie, so there are consequences. I do things that I know aren't pleasing to God, and He doesn't reward me for those actions. If I want His gifts and His blessings, I need to be living a life that is pleasing in His sight.
1/23/09
Day 9 - January 23/09
Joshua 10
The King of Jerusalem, upon hearing that Gibeon had made peace with Joshua, decided to take the offensive stance and attack Gibeon with four other kings. Israel came to their aid and everyone from the five kingdoms was killed, either by the sword of Israel or hail that God sent down from heaven. During the battle, Joshua prayed for the sun to be stopped in the sky so that they may have the victory by day. God consented, and the sun stayed up what appears to be an extra 24 hours. The five kings, however, had retreated to a cave in Makkedah and were in hiding. Right before killing them, Joshua once again quotes God's "strong and courageous" speech. From there, the Israelites go on to conquer all of Southern Palestine, all in God's perfect timing and with His help.
God took Joshua's disobedience with Gibeon and turned it into an opportunity for His glory. Those five mighty kings were lured into the open and were able to be defeated all at once. God is never surprised by our actions and mistakes, nor does He suddenly go into a panic and hastily change plans which don't work out for the best. God knows the end from the beginning, and He is never taken by surprise. It's an immense comfort to know that this very second that I'm typing in was already known about before my birth. He knows me well enough to already know the decisions I will make, and He loves me despite my greatest downfalls. When I think of the things I've done that were less than satisfying the God's holiness, I can't believe anyone could know those things and still care for me. Yet here is this Almighty God who not only knows my actions, but every thought and motive of my heart...and He still calls me His little girl. Wow.
The King of Jerusalem, upon hearing that Gibeon had made peace with Joshua, decided to take the offensive stance and attack Gibeon with four other kings. Israel came to their aid and everyone from the five kingdoms was killed, either by the sword of Israel or hail that God sent down from heaven. During the battle, Joshua prayed for the sun to be stopped in the sky so that they may have the victory by day. God consented, and the sun stayed up what appears to be an extra 24 hours. The five kings, however, had retreated to a cave in Makkedah and were in hiding. Right before killing them, Joshua once again quotes God's "strong and courageous" speech. From there, the Israelites go on to conquer all of Southern Palestine, all in God's perfect timing and with His help.
God took Joshua's disobedience with Gibeon and turned it into an opportunity for His glory. Those five mighty kings were lured into the open and were able to be defeated all at once. God is never surprised by our actions and mistakes, nor does He suddenly go into a panic and hastily change plans which don't work out for the best. God knows the end from the beginning, and He is never taken by surprise. It's an immense comfort to know that this very second that I'm typing in was already known about before my birth. He knows me well enough to already know the decisions I will make, and He loves me despite my greatest downfalls. When I think of the things I've done that were less than satisfying the God's holiness, I can't believe anyone could know those things and still care for me. Yet here is this Almighty God who not only knows my actions, but every thought and motive of my heart...and He still calls me His little girl. Wow.
1/22/09
Day 8 - January 22/09
Joshua 9
Hearing about what the Israelites did to Jericho, the inhabitants of Gibeon tricked Joshua into making a covenant with them to spare their lives. The leaders of Israel did not consult with God first, but hastily made the treaty. When Joshua found out about their lies and questioned the men of Gibeon, they responded that they were in fear of God and had not wanted to die. In response, Joshua cursed them to a life of slavery.
Joshua makes a huge mistake as a leader under God's direction: not taking God's direction. It's not even that he ignores God's orders, but rather decides to rely on his own intellect instead of God's knowledge.
God knows so much better than me what is good for me. Even if all appearances point to a certain thing making me happy, God knows if it really will in the long run. I can choose something for my life right now that will be destructive in the end, but God has everything under His watch and He knows all before it happens.
So why can't I trust him?
Hearing about what the Israelites did to Jericho, the inhabitants of Gibeon tricked Joshua into making a covenant with them to spare their lives. The leaders of Israel did not consult with God first, but hastily made the treaty. When Joshua found out about their lies and questioned the men of Gibeon, they responded that they were in fear of God and had not wanted to die. In response, Joshua cursed them to a life of slavery.
Joshua makes a huge mistake as a leader under God's direction: not taking God's direction. It's not even that he ignores God's orders, but rather decides to rely on his own intellect instead of God's knowledge.
God knows so much better than me what is good for me. Even if all appearances point to a certain thing making me happy, God knows if it really will in the long run. I can choose something for my life right now that will be destructive in the end, but God has everything under His watch and He knows all before it happens.
So why can't I trust him?
1/21/09
Day 7 - January 21/09
Joshua 8
Now that evil has been purged from Israel, God gives Joshua the go-ahead for attacking the land of Ai. Using the previous failure as an advantage, Joshua will lure the opposition out by faking a second retreat, while the rest of the Israelites are waiting in ambush behind the city. God's plan works, of course, and the city of Ai is completely destroyed, along with all its inhabitants. Then they write out the Law of Moses again, and read it aloud to all the people.
When I read this passage, it really makes me think that the Israelites wanted to please God. They had just wandered through the desert for 40 years and were excited to see what He had in store for them in the new land. They wanted to hear His laws and obey them but, like us, sometimes they fell short. I know that sometimes I feel so unworthy of God's love because of how terribly I fall from His commands. Yet somehow, despite it all, He loves me and is still willing to give me the victory once I've come clean before Him. And not only that, He uses the experiences that were bad for the good of the situation. This story is the perfect example of God working all things together for the good of those who love Him. It gets me excited!
Now that evil has been purged from Israel, God gives Joshua the go-ahead for attacking the land of Ai. Using the previous failure as an advantage, Joshua will lure the opposition out by faking a second retreat, while the rest of the Israelites are waiting in ambush behind the city. God's plan works, of course, and the city of Ai is completely destroyed, along with all its inhabitants. Then they write out the Law of Moses again, and read it aloud to all the people.
When I read this passage, it really makes me think that the Israelites wanted to please God. They had just wandered through the desert for 40 years and were excited to see what He had in store for them in the new land. They wanted to hear His laws and obey them but, like us, sometimes they fell short. I know that sometimes I feel so unworthy of God's love because of how terribly I fall from His commands. Yet somehow, despite it all, He loves me and is still willing to give me the victory once I've come clean before Him. And not only that, He uses the experiences that were bad for the good of the situation. This story is the perfect example of God working all things together for the good of those who love Him. It gets me excited!
1/20/09
Day 6 - January 20/09
Joshua 7
In the previous chapter, God had commanded Joshua that no one was to keep any of the spoils from Jericho. Unfortunately, a man named Achan brings some things back with him. When Israel loses a battle they should have easily won, Joshua is grieved and implores God as to why this happened. God reveals to Joshua that someone has brought disgrace on all of Israel through stealing from Jericho and they will not be able to conquer any more land until the offender has been removed from their society. By casting lots, Joshua is able to figure out that Achan was the one to take treasure from Jericho, and he is stoned to death and then burned along with all his family and everything he owns.
I can't pretend to understand why it was necessary to destroy Achan's family. Perhaps they were accomplices and knew of what he had done, but I still don't see how that decision is just. I've never understood parts of the Bible where one person is punished for another's transgressions.
In my life, I think I can best apply this passage to the parts of myself that I try to keep from God. I tell Him that I can take care of that part on my own, but really He wants me to leave it all to Him. I need to give Him the last 5% I'm holding back.
In the previous chapter, God had commanded Joshua that no one was to keep any of the spoils from Jericho. Unfortunately, a man named Achan brings some things back with him. When Israel loses a battle they should have easily won, Joshua is grieved and implores God as to why this happened. God reveals to Joshua that someone has brought disgrace on all of Israel through stealing from Jericho and they will not be able to conquer any more land until the offender has been removed from their society. By casting lots, Joshua is able to figure out that Achan was the one to take treasure from Jericho, and he is stoned to death and then burned along with all his family and everything he owns.
I can't pretend to understand why it was necessary to destroy Achan's family. Perhaps they were accomplices and knew of what he had done, but I still don't see how that decision is just. I've never understood parts of the Bible where one person is punished for another's transgressions.
In my life, I think I can best apply this passage to the parts of myself that I try to keep from God. I tell Him that I can take care of that part on my own, but really He wants me to leave it all to Him. I need to give Him the last 5% I'm holding back.
1/19/09
Day 5 - January 19/09
jJoshua 6
The day has finally come for Israel to battle Jericho. The king and all his warriors have shut themselves within the walls, and Joshua is given the game plan. They arise early for six days, with the armed men, priests, common people and the Ark of the Covenant walking once in a circle around the walled city. They do this in complete silence, except for the blowing of seven priestly trumpets. Then, on the seventh day, all the people walk around the city seven times. And on the seventh time, the priests blow their trumpets and the Israelites let out a loud shout and the walls crumble. Everything in the city is destroyed except for the precious metals, which go into the Lord's treasury, and Rahab's family.
Joshua followed God's commands exactly. It is logical to think that he may have experienced some doubt as to whether this plan would work, but never once does scripture say that he questioned God or asked for another plan of attack. They must have looked ridiculous walking around the city in silence, day after day. Despite how silly he must have felt, Joshua still kept to God's orders and followed through. If they had gone to war, the Israelites probably would have lost some of their own soldiers in the battle, so instead God kept them at a safe distance where not one of their company was lost.
God's ways are not my ways. Sometimes He asks me to do something and it makes absolutely no sense to me. The thing I need to work on is trusting God that because He knows the ins and outs of everything on the planet, He can be trusted to know what will work out in the end. So even when I don't understand His logic, it's alright because I'm not meant to; He is so far beyond me. If He meant for me to know His mind, He would let me in on it. This means that I need to be content with the little knowledge He has given me and simply trust.
The day has finally come for Israel to battle Jericho. The king and all his warriors have shut themselves within the walls, and Joshua is given the game plan. They arise early for six days, with the armed men, priests, common people and the Ark of the Covenant walking once in a circle around the walled city. They do this in complete silence, except for the blowing of seven priestly trumpets. Then, on the seventh day, all the people walk around the city seven times. And on the seventh time, the priests blow their trumpets and the Israelites let out a loud shout and the walls crumble. Everything in the city is destroyed except for the precious metals, which go into the Lord's treasury, and Rahab's family.
Joshua followed God's commands exactly. It is logical to think that he may have experienced some doubt as to whether this plan would work, but never once does scripture say that he questioned God or asked for another plan of attack. They must have looked ridiculous walking around the city in silence, day after day. Despite how silly he must have felt, Joshua still kept to God's orders and followed through. If they had gone to war, the Israelites probably would have lost some of their own soldiers in the battle, so instead God kept them at a safe distance where not one of their company was lost.
God's ways are not my ways. Sometimes He asks me to do something and it makes absolutely no sense to me. The thing I need to work on is trusting God that because He knows the ins and outs of everything on the planet, He can be trusted to know what will work out in the end. So even when I don't understand His logic, it's alright because I'm not meant to; He is so far beyond me. If He meant for me to know His mind, He would let me in on it. This means that I need to be content with the little knowledge He has given me and simply trust.
1/18/09
Day 4 - January 18/09
Joshua 5
Now that Israel has crossed the Jordan, God asks that all the men be circumcised, as they weren't while in the wilderness. After they have recovered, they begin to eat off the fruit of the land and God stops providing manna. Now that He had brought them into a land of sustenance, He no longer sends food directly from heaven. When Joshua is on his way to Jericho, he comes across the path of an angel. This is when he asks if the angel is for them or against them, and the angel replies that he is neither, but is on God's side.
When I read this, it looks to me as if God doesn't pick sides. Even for His chosen people, He is not saying He is on their side. Instead, it is Joshua who must choose to be on God's side and go along with His plan; it is not the other way around. If I want God's blessing and provision in my life, I need to be on His side and choose to follow His plans. That is when I will see blessing. If I expect that I can just ask God for what I want and, because He loves me, I'll get it, then I have everything mixed around. God has not looked down from heaven and, seeing how awesome I am, decided to join my fan club, but has actually invited me to join His team. If I say yes to that call and live every moment for Him rather than myself, I wonder what kind of blessings He might have waiting.
Now that Israel has crossed the Jordan, God asks that all the men be circumcised, as they weren't while in the wilderness. After they have recovered, they begin to eat off the fruit of the land and God stops providing manna. Now that He had brought them into a land of sustenance, He no longer sends food directly from heaven. When Joshua is on his way to Jericho, he comes across the path of an angel. This is when he asks if the angel is for them or against them, and the angel replies that he is neither, but is on God's side.
When I read this, it looks to me as if God doesn't pick sides. Even for His chosen people, He is not saying He is on their side. Instead, it is Joshua who must choose to be on God's side and go along with His plan; it is not the other way around. If I want God's blessing and provision in my life, I need to be on His side and choose to follow His plans. That is when I will see blessing. If I expect that I can just ask God for what I want and, because He loves me, I'll get it, then I have everything mixed around. God has not looked down from heaven and, seeing how awesome I am, decided to join my fan club, but has actually invited me to join His team. If I say yes to that call and live every moment for Him rather than myself, I wonder what kind of blessings He might have waiting.
1/16/09
Day 3 - January 16/09
Joshua 3 & 4
The Israelites are preparing to cross the Jordan River into the Promise Land, and God lets Joshua know that He will show a sign so as to reveal to the people that Joshua is the new leader in place of Moses and has just as much of a relationship with God. When the priests carrying the Ark of the Covenant go first to cross the river, the water immediately dries up. The priests stay in the middle of the river until all of Israel has passed on dry land.
After the people have crossed the Jordan, Joshua sends 12 men, one each for the tribes of Israel, back into the dry river to all bring back a large stone. Joshua then used the stones to build a tribute to how God allowed the Israelites to cross the river on dry land; because of this, just as God had said, the people revered Joshua as they had Moses. Joshua did not take the credit for himself, however. He gave all the glory to God and hoped that because of His great actions, the world may know how mighty God is.
I know from experience that being in a place of leadership with others relying on me is not easy, and that's without a following of more than a million people and a recently deceased predecessor who was beloved by the people who are now under my charge. Despite the odds, Joshua took on the responsibility of Israel and relied on God to turn the people's hearts and trust in his favour. Even when the going gets tough and I don't feel like I am the influence I should be, or even someone worthy of leadership, I know that I can count on God to put me in the place I belong, whether that be in a leadership position or somewhere in the background for awhile. Joshua trusted God and He came through, so I'd like to believe that if I trust God in the same way He will do the same for me.
The Israelites are preparing to cross the Jordan River into the Promise Land, and God lets Joshua know that He will show a sign so as to reveal to the people that Joshua is the new leader in place of Moses and has just as much of a relationship with God. When the priests carrying the Ark of the Covenant go first to cross the river, the water immediately dries up. The priests stay in the middle of the river until all of Israel has passed on dry land.
After the people have crossed the Jordan, Joshua sends 12 men, one each for the tribes of Israel, back into the dry river to all bring back a large stone. Joshua then used the stones to build a tribute to how God allowed the Israelites to cross the river on dry land; because of this, just as God had said, the people revered Joshua as they had Moses. Joshua did not take the credit for himself, however. He gave all the glory to God and hoped that because of His great actions, the world may know how mighty God is.
I know from experience that being in a place of leadership with others relying on me is not easy, and that's without a following of more than a million people and a recently deceased predecessor who was beloved by the people who are now under my charge. Despite the odds, Joshua took on the responsibility of Israel and relied on God to turn the people's hearts and trust in his favour. Even when the going gets tough and I don't feel like I am the influence I should be, or even someone worthy of leadership, I know that I can count on God to put me in the place I belong, whether that be in a leadership position or somewhere in the background for awhile. Joshua trusted God and He came through, so I'd like to believe that if I trust God in the same way He will do the same for me.
1/15/09
Day 2 - January 15/09
Joshua 2
Joshua sends two spies into Jericho to scope out the land, and they stay in the home of Rahab. Instead of turning them over to the guards of the king, she sends them down the road with a false story of the men leaving the city. For saving them, the men promise Rahab and her family safety when the city is attacked. After they escape, they hide in the hills for three days and then return to Joshua to relate the story to him and give the good news that the land will surely be delivered into Israelite hands.
Rahab is willing to cooperate and save the spies because she has heard the stories of how incredible and powerful God is. She reveals the secret of how all Jericho is in terror before the great God of the Israelites, and requests that she be spared from destruction. It must have taken such courage for her to be able to send away the soldiers and protect the lives of strangers. It was only by God's grace that they were saved.
Even though it wasn't the popular choice, Rahab chose to go with God. Although it could have cost her dearly, she was still willing to lay it all on the line for the opportunity to save her family and live for the only One who could ever truly save her. I want to have that kind of faith and expectation. I want to expect great things of God because I too know the wondrous things He has done. With all the evidence that the Bible and my own life provide, shouldn't I be even more capable of making such a choice?
Joshua sends two spies into Jericho to scope out the land, and they stay in the home of Rahab. Instead of turning them over to the guards of the king, she sends them down the road with a false story of the men leaving the city. For saving them, the men promise Rahab and her family safety when the city is attacked. After they escape, they hide in the hills for three days and then return to Joshua to relate the story to him and give the good news that the land will surely be delivered into Israelite hands.
Rahab is willing to cooperate and save the spies because she has heard the stories of how incredible and powerful God is. She reveals the secret of how all Jericho is in terror before the great God of the Israelites, and requests that she be spared from destruction. It must have taken such courage for her to be able to send away the soldiers and protect the lives of strangers. It was only by God's grace that they were saved.
Even though it wasn't the popular choice, Rahab chose to go with God. Although it could have cost her dearly, she was still willing to lay it all on the line for the opportunity to save her family and live for the only One who could ever truly save her. I want to have that kind of faith and expectation. I want to expect great things of God because I too know the wondrous things He has done. With all the evidence that the Bible and my own life provide, shouldn't I be even more capable of making such a choice?
1/14/09
Day 1 - January 14/09
Joshua 1
Moses has just passed away, and Joshua is taking command of the Israelites in his stead. Verses two through nine are God giving Joshua a pep-talk on what it will take to lead the people. God first speaks of leading the Hebrews into the land of promise and taking it from those who currently occupy it. Joshua is then encouraged to have faith in God that He will not abandon Joshua, but will have his back and support him. The rest of the chapter is Joshua preparing the men to fight for the land, and commanding those tribes who have already settled to remain faithful to their word and help their brothers capture their land.
"Be strong and courageous..." is repeated by God three times within four verses, which must mean it's important. God is so wanting for Joshua to trust Him and rely on Him that He is telling him not even to go as far as to "tremble or be dismayed." That's hard! But God is giving this man a huge calling and asking for his trust. Then, at the end of the chapter when the Israelites are swearing their allegiance to Joshua, they say "only be strong and courageous" almost as a war chant or a reminder of how they are to act.
God is not speaking of human strength or mortal courage, but the might and fearlessness that come from trusting in an almighty Father who is guiding them and who they can rest in. That is where their strength comes from. In the face of seemingly impossible odds, the Israelites are being asked to fight for the land God is giving to them. It is in their undeniable weakness that God is able to show His strength; it is He who makes them strong and courageous.
Sometimes I feel as if there is no way I can go on anymore. I'm not facing mighty armies and the possibility of imminent death, but I still get so discouraged. God promises success when I "turn neither to the left or to the right" and says that he is with me wherever I go. If I look at this example of God coming through on His word, already knowing that He doesn't abandon Joshua, then I can trust that God will do the same for me. I know that even when I've screwed up bad in the past, I can still hear His voice and He doesn't abandon me. So whenever I become all dismayed and full of trembles, I can fall back on this passage and know that my strength comes from Someone who is bigger than any of my troubles could ever be.
Moses has just passed away, and Joshua is taking command of the Israelites in his stead. Verses two through nine are God giving Joshua a pep-talk on what it will take to lead the people. God first speaks of leading the Hebrews into the land of promise and taking it from those who currently occupy it. Joshua is then encouraged to have faith in God that He will not abandon Joshua, but will have his back and support him. The rest of the chapter is Joshua preparing the men to fight for the land, and commanding those tribes who have already settled to remain faithful to their word and help their brothers capture their land.
"Be strong and courageous..." is repeated by God three times within four verses, which must mean it's important. God is so wanting for Joshua to trust Him and rely on Him that He is telling him not even to go as far as to "tremble or be dismayed." That's hard! But God is giving this man a huge calling and asking for his trust. Then, at the end of the chapter when the Israelites are swearing their allegiance to Joshua, they say "only be strong and courageous" almost as a war chant or a reminder of how they are to act.
God is not speaking of human strength or mortal courage, but the might and fearlessness that come from trusting in an almighty Father who is guiding them and who they can rest in. That is where their strength comes from. In the face of seemingly impossible odds, the Israelites are being asked to fight for the land God is giving to them. It is in their undeniable weakness that God is able to show His strength; it is He who makes them strong and courageous.
Sometimes I feel as if there is no way I can go on anymore. I'm not facing mighty armies and the possibility of imminent death, but I still get so discouraged. God promises success when I "turn neither to the left or to the right" and says that he is with me wherever I go. If I look at this example of God coming through on His word, already knowing that He doesn't abandon Joshua, then I can trust that God will do the same for me. I know that even when I've screwed up bad in the past, I can still hear His voice and He doesn't abandon me. So whenever I become all dismayed and full of trembles, I can fall back on this passage and know that my strength comes from Someone who is bigger than any of my troubles could ever be.
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