Bible Chapter: Judges 21
Because the Bible is practical, here are some statements to get you thinking.
1. Write one or two key thoughts that come from today’s reading.
We see one more chapter in this strange saga. After going against the tribe of Benjamin with the goal of killing them, the nation now lamented the fact that could lose one of the tribes. And, they had made a foolish vow to now allow any of their daughters to marry a man from Benjamin. They came up with a solution, but it was a very strange and sad one that included more death and destruction. The thought that comes to my mind is that whenever people go against God and His ways, they do strange things because there are no good options. People think they can solve any problem, but that is just not true. Turn away from God and people discover the problems they face. Not everything is easy to fix.
2. What can I apply in my life from the reading?
The last verse of the book describes the sad state on the nation at that time. It also describes the sad state of many nations down through history. It could be written about many places in the world today. All the people did whatever seemed right in their own eyes. That is a recipe for disaster. There is no safety for life. What is right will constantly change when it is up to individual people. Selfishness and jealousy will control and no one will be safe. Fear and destruction will take over. So, the application for life is live and promote the message of Jesus. Jesus came to seek and save the lost. He came to give abundant life. He came to set people free from the bondage of sin.
3. How can I help someone?
The message of this book is what happens when apostasy takes over a nation. There is deliverance in God, but it requires submission to Him. Apostasy is renouncing and abandoning the faith. Those who abandon God always pay a large price that, if they would have really seen the cost, would never have done it. Pay attention before it is too late.
Bible Chapter: Judges 19 & 20
Because the Bible is practical, here are some statements to get you thinking.
1. Write one or two key thoughts that come from today’s reading.
All my life I have been taught the Bible. I have spent the last four decades teaching and preaching the Bible. I have found many people who think it is not worth the effort to really study and apply the Bible in their lives. It is too restricting. They would rather do anything but let the message of God’s Word impact their lives. Sadly, when people walk away from God and do their own thing, horrible problems happen. We see this again here in Israel. They had no leader and they became depraved and immoral. This immorality caused them to do despicable things.
The Bible tells the story as it happened. These chapters are a very sad time in history. Along with horrible sin, tens of thousands of people died. People easily become overcome with uncontrollable passions. They don’t care about others. Sadly, this story tells of a town where the men burned with sexual desire for both men and women. The thought of a traveling couple spending the night was too much for them. They believed they should be able to do what they wanted. The Levite didn’t protect his wife. She was brutally raped and murdered. There was no justice or accountability against the perpetrators. They had their night of “fun” and thought it should all end there.
2. What can I apply in my life from the reading?
God’s righteousness is the one and only standard for living. When people step away from God’s ways they quickly plunge to base actions. I see the things happening in the world today. I see things that our culture is not only sanctioning but promoting. I never would have thought I could see these kinds of sins so actively promoted. People are unashamed of their debauchery. It is just normal. I, and everyone who claims the name of Jesus, must see that we live in a relationship with Jesus that is fully committed to HIM. It is vital to call right things right and wrong things wrong. The standard is not a sliding scale of popularity. The standard is God’s Word that was inspired by the Spirit of God and recorded by holy men who gave us the most important writing in history.
The Psalmist told us that he hid God’s Word in his heart so he wouldn’t sin against God. This is one of the top pieces of advice we will ever hear.
3. How can I help someone?
Do you see God’s Word? Don’t make it more complex than it is. Study it. Learn it. Apply it. Reject compromise and grow close to Jesus.
Bible Chapter: Judges 17 & 18
Because the Bible is practical, here are some statements to get you thinking.
1. Write one or two key thoughts that come from today’s reading.
What happens when God is rejected in a society and the influence of righteousness is missing? People will sink to the lowest common denominator. Their actions and beliefs sink to doing whatever they want, whatever they think is right (or fun) in their own estimation. This always leads to sin. This always brings rejection of God’s ways. This is what happened to Israel at this time. Everyone was a law to themselves. They resented being told what to do. Verse 6 tells us In those days there was no king in Israel, but every man did that which was right in his own eyes. So, we have a story of Micah and his mother. They made idols and worshiped them. They hired their own person priest, thinking this would give them protection.
This is a sad time in the nation’s history because of the statement that everyone did what was right in their own eyes. What happened over and over was the pull of worshiping other gods. It happened again at this time. People thought they could maintain God’s blessings on their lives as they actively broke His commandments.
2. What can I apply in my life from the reading?
Corruption. That is what we see in these chapters. There was a man, Micah, who was willing to hire a young Levite as his personal priest. The Levite was willing to take the job. Then later, when a better offer came by, the Levite left and became the priest to a larger group. But, they still had idols and worshiped false gods. I must be sure to not allow corruption to interfere in God’s calling on my life. One thing I have observed in life is that many people don’t look at the big picture. People can’t see beyond the end of their nose. So, they see something that looks good and take it without seeing the long-term impact. Having an eternal perspective will help prevent corruption and promote righteousness.
3. How can I help someone?
It may seen desirable to create a set of beliefs that makes one comfortable, but that is not possible. Since God created the world and gave the human race His set of standards to live by, we must seek to learn what He says and then actually LIVE BY what God instructed. We must avoid corruption and learn that doing life God’s way is always best.
Bible Chapter: Judges 15 & 16
Because the Bible is practical, here are some statements to get you thinking.
1. Write one or two key thoughts that come from today’s reading.
The word that comes to my mind as I read these chapters is potential. God had a plan for Samson. He empowered him with the Spirit of God. There was an amazing plan for how God wanted to use Samson. Unfortunately, Samson had other ideas. He misused what God had given him. Yes, he judged Israel for twenty years. Sadly, he never reached the potential God had for him.
Samson was consumed with uncontrollable desires of sexual lust. He didn’t seek a wife from Israel. He played around with the enemy. He risked everything for temporary pleasures. He toyed with the source of his strength. It was more important to Samson to satisfy his physical desires than to please God. He was so sure of himself that he didn’t even realize when God left him. This eventually brought him to his death.
2. What can I apply in my life from the reading?
As I have rambled through life I have met many people with amazing gifts. The things they can do are astonishing. There are some who have so many abilities. It is what they do with them that it is important. Sadly, Samson didn’t use the gifts God gave him properly. When God creates a person, He gives them abilities they are to develop and use. While it is common to be impressed (and probably jealous as well) at people with many gifts and talents, it is important that we use what God has given to us to the best of our ability, without worrying what the other person can do. Samson didn’t do that, he didn’t obey God’s commands, thereby missing his full potential. He did accomplish some things, but he never brought the nation to deliverance from the captivity of the Philistines. I wonder what would have happened if he had been faithful to God. That is the continual challenge we all face. Again, I think of potential, the potential God gives to each one of us.
3. How can I help someone?
I want to encourage people to look to God for what He has given to them. Identify the talents, the desires God has given. Then, find the ways to develop and reach their full potential with God’s help to impact eternity.
Bible Chapter: Judges 13 & 14
Because the Bible is practical, here are some statements to get you thinking.
1. Write one or two key thoughts that come from today’s reading.
There are many modern heroes in entertainment that do amazing feats of strength. They can take on a whole gang of attackers and win. While those are just stories, here we read of a real hero, a real man of strength who won some amazing victories. Samson was used of God to deliver the nation from the Philistines. God sent an angel to his mother to tell her she would give birth to a son who would be set apart from birth to accomplish much for God.
Samson was used by God. But, sadly, he was also quite insistent on doing things his own way. If he had been more willing to seek and learn God’s ways, he would still have been used by God, but his life would have been quite different. Samson didn’t listen to the teaching he heard about serving God and staying away from sin. He didn’t listen to the urging of his parents to marry someone from his homeland. He was generally looking for pleasure.
2. What can I apply in my life from the reading?
God used Samson, but he missed out because of his stubbornness. Being used by God is the best thing that can happen in life. While we read about his exploits and are amazed at what he accomplished, he missed out because of his immaturity and insistence on getting his own way. This is a good lesson to learn from.
3. How can I help someone?
Generally, people think they know what is best and insist on living life according to personal whims and desires. It is always best to follow God’s directions. Samson missed out on this.
Bible Chapter: Judges 11 & 12
Because the Bible is practical, here are some statements to get you thinking.
1. Write one or two key thoughts that come from today’s reading.
Sometimes people make snap judgements based on poor information. We see that happening here. A son, a brother was kicked out of the family. Later they decided that he was important to them. This is a lesson in being careful how and why people make decisions.
We also see the importance of God’s power enabling people to do great deeds. The Spirit of the Lord came on Jephthah to empower him to win the victory. The Spirit of God is still, He is always available to empower God’s people to do whatever God knows needs to be done.
While this is a story of victory, it is also a frustrating story. Jephthah made a rash vow and it brought pain to him and his daughter. Stories of rash vows bring pain. It is a good lesson on the importance of thinking before making a vow to God.
2. What can I apply in my life from the reading?
I look at the reason why Jephthah was shunned by his siblings. It is sad. It shows the importance of thinking, of realizing the implications of decisions made on weak foundations. While it appeared on the surface to be rational, they later realized their mistake. Sadly, much pain had already happened. Learning to think before decisions are made is important. Learning to base decisions on proper biblical interpretation is also critical.
3. How can I help someone?
God created the family. It is the first social unit He made. This story shows how families can be broken through bad choices. Many have experienced hurt and missed out on the benefits of a good family relationship because of bad choices. I want to help people see the importance of good choices and a solid foundation for family relationships.
Bible Chapter: Judges 9 & 10
Because the Bible is practical, here are some statements to get you thinking.
1. Write one or two key thoughts that come from today’s reading.
It is amazing what greed, pride and desire for power will do. We have here the story of Abimelech, who murdered his brothers so that he could become the king. He manipulated and deceived people to gain power. We see his evil heart in receiving seventy shekels of silver from the temple of Baal-Berith. He used this money to hire some worthless folks to follow him. This brought a time of sadness and eventual destruction to the nation. Many people died. This is an illustration of the bad things that can come when people walk away from God.
After Abimelech’s death there were a few godly judges who ruled the nation. Then the spiritual landslide happened again as the people did evil in God’s sight and worshiped false gods. They came under evil oppression for eighteen years. Then, in desperation, they again called out to God for deliverance. It is interesting to see God’s response. He told them to call out the gods they were serving and let them deliver. This caused them to say even more, “we have sinned against God”. The false gods they served had no power to save.
2. What can I apply in my life from the reading?
As I ramble through life I often wonder about the things that people do. There are some activities that are common among people, no matter what the culture. These things are often illegal, and yet the find ways to do them. People work to make these things legal and accepted. Yet, the negative consequences continue to come. The resulting problems can be pointed out and people still do them. I wonder what is the great pull, the great desire people have to do these things. I know that it is sin and the tempter is very powerful. I also know that the only way to overcome sin is through the power of Jesus. Yet, I still observe life and see sin controlling and destroying countless lives. These are the same things we see over and over in these historical books of the Bible. People, learn the lessons and serve the Lord.
3. How can I help someone?
I want to help people see what is happening in their lives. Sin is destroying, and yet they continue to participate in it. They think they are happier in their miserable sinful existence and are afraid to take the step of faith to trust in Jesus. Again the message, People, learn the lessons and serve the Lord.
Bible Chapter: Judges 7 & 8
Because the Bible is practical, here are some statements to get you thinking.
1. Write one or two key thoughts that come from today’s reading.
The story of Gideon is very unique. It shows us some of God’s nature. God has all power and can do anything. As God was about to use Gideon to save the nation, He insisted on doing it in such a way that only God would get the glory. Gideon started out with an army of 32,000 men. God whittled it down to 300. That way no one could say they did it. God wants us to learn to fully trust Him in every situation. He has no problem taking care of whatever we may face. God’s people must learn to be alert to His leading.
God gave Gideon the victory. The enemy started fighting itself and the scattered. The victory was large. This is what happened when Gideon obeyed God. This important lesson is what all believers must grasp. It is easy to try to manipulate victory on our own terms.
2. What can I apply in my life from the reading?
The end of chapter eight jumped out to me as I read it. After seeing God give them a great victory, and after Gideon judged the nation for forty years of peace, as soon as Gideon died the people again prostituted themselves with the Baals. They forgot what God had done for them. They didn’t treat Gideon’s family with kindness. What this says is that as soon as Gideon was not judging them any more, as soon as their leader was gone, they jumped headlong back to evil.
It appears that they were not really worshiping God, they were only going along with the program. If their hearts had been for God, they would have continued to serve Him. To me, this says that people must be above routine religious activities and really get in a close connection with God. I have seen many people involved in religious stuff in my life. Now, it looks like many are walking away from even the surface religious involvement they have had. That strong warning should get all of our attention. Get close to Jesus, not just the form.
3. How can I help someone?
I want to help people see the lessons of Gideon. God took a “nobody” and used him in such a way that thousands of years later people are being inspired by his life. Obedience is a key word we see from his victory over Midian.
Bible Chapter: Judges 5 & 6
Because the Bible is practical, here are some statements to get you thinking.
1. Write one or two key thoughts that come from today’s reading.
Sing to the Lord. Sing praises to Him. One of God’s greatest creations, one of His greatest gifts to people is music. We are able to use music is many ways. One of the most powerful ways is to sing to the Lord. We can sing our worship to the Almighty Creator. Deborah and Barak sang praise to God for His mercy and deliverance. They sang because God delivered them from Jaban, the Canaanite king. Then the land had peace for forty years.
Sadly, here’s that whiplash again. From the high at the end of chapter five where it says they had peace for forty years to the low at the beginning of chapter six where it says again Israel did evil in God’s sight, we see that major slide to evil. They came under the powerful oppression of the Midianites. Israel’s crops were destroyed year after year and they became destitute. This was because they didn’t listen to God. Then, they called out to God for His help.
God came to Gideon to raise him up as a leader and deliverer. God prepared Gideon to lead the nation to victory.
2. What can I apply in my life from the reading?
God clothed Gideon with the power of His Spirit. The Holy Spirit equipped Gideon to do a mighty task. It is through the power of the Spirit that the Lord’s work has been accomplished down through the millennia. That has not changed. Believers today must continue to remember that God will still use them. But, it will only be through His equipping with His power. The story of Gideon is an exciting one. We see how God can use the least of the least. That is how Gideon described himself to God. God’s response was “I will be with you”. That is the promise of victory.
3. How can I help someone?
Believers in Jesus, don’t put yourself down. God knew what He was doing when He made you. Let God empower and equip you and then go out and do mighty things for God.
Bible Chapter: Judges 3 & 4
Because the Bible is practical, here are some statements to get you thinking.
1. Write one or two key thoughts that come from today’s reading.
God is love. God is pure and holy. God wants a people who love Him and live holy lives. It seems that God’s people down through the ages live a roller coaster spiritual experience -- up and down continually. This is the story we see in the book of Judges. Apostasy (abandoning belief) seemed to come so easily. This was followed by bondage to heathen nations. Then they would finally call out to God and He would deliver them. This cycle continues today in the church world. People get excited about God and then they get lazy spiritually and get drawn to sinful lifestyles. False doctrine comes in and the church proclaims teachings that are far from the Bible. Spiritual decline comes too easily. People compromise their relationship with God.
In these chapters we see examples of how God raised up leaders to bring the nation back to serving God. God overcame the enemies in supernatural ways. This truth is expressed in 3:10 where it says the Spirit of the Lord came upon him. As the power and presence of God came on the judges, they were supernaturally used to lead the people in victory over enemies and back to God.
2. What can I apply in my life from the reading?
Probably the only place where roller coasters are fun is in an amusement park. They are dangerous in a spiritual journey. The picture we should display is a slow and steady climb. Believers in Jesus should live a consistent increase in our knowledge of and relationship with God. While we are not able to live a perfect life, we should not be in a continual up and down cycle. We must be consistent in our beliefs and they must be solidly based on the Bible. Beliefs in God are not based on opinion polls. Even if the majority calls for something different, Christ-followers must reject anything that compromises God’s eternal truths.
A very sad statement is the passage that says the Israelites did evil. They intermingled with the heathen, marrying them and bringing heathen culture in to their families. God had so clearly told them not to do this. I see this happening in the church world today. People are entering in to relationships with sinners that don’t bring the sinner to Jesus, but pull the believer away. These kinds of relationships must be avoided at all costs.
3. How can I help someone?
I sense this book is talking especially to those who declare themselves to be followers of God. The powerful lesson is for all to get as close to God as they can and obey all the directions He has given. Any temporary pleasures derived from compromise don’t come close to being worth the price a person will pay.
Bible Chapter: Judges 1 & 2
Because the Bible is practical, here are some statements to get you thinking.
1. Write one or two key thoughts that come from today’s reading.
The book of Judges carries on the history of Israel. They had entered the promised land and were taking control of it. We see that God was giving them great victories. We also see that there were times when they failed to drive out the Canaanites. These people eventually became a thorn in their lives and influenced them away from God. I see a picture of the importance of separating from sin and sinful activity. The more it hangs around the more it becomes a negative impact on life.
In these chapters we can also see the importance of passing on God’s truths from generation to generation. Each new generation must make a personal connection with God, or they will be drawn in to destructive and sinful behavior. A very important question to ask is why should I serve God? If I can’t give it a good answer, I will be drawn to the fun and temptation of sin. I will think it is great at first, and then eventually see the high price it extracts. In many cases, but then, it is too late. This cycle of spiritual up and down is seen many times in the history of Israel. It is also seen in church history. Serving God is not just a matter of following a religious routine. Each individual must make a personal connection with God or there is nothing left.
2. What can I apply in my life from the reading?
Life is filled with really hard things. It is often challenging to follow God’s ways. It is becoming more and more unpopular to be obedient to God’s revealed Word in the Bible. The behavior patterns we see in these history books are the same patterns we see in the world today. One issue I see is shortsightedness. When a person only sees what is right before them without seeing the future and the impact of decisions, then poor decisions will become the norm. This passage tells us that the people served God till the next generation grew up. Then they forsook God and provoked Him to anger. This was because they never understood the reasons to serve and obey God. They never connected with God. I must maintain my connection with Him.
3. How can I help someone?
It is important to pass the faith along. Jesus didn’t come to establish a mundane religious ritual. He came to give us eternal hope. We have what the Bible calls a blessed hope. It is the glorious appearing of Jesus to take us to be with Him. That is worth whatever it costs here on earth.
Bible Chapter: Joshua 23 & 24
Because the Bible is practical, here are some statements to get you thinking.
1. Write one or two key thoughts that come from today’s reading.
Joshua grew very old. The Lord had fulfilled His promises to Israel and they lived in the land in peace. As Joshua realized that he didn’t have long to live, he called the nation together to remind them of all that God had done for them. He challenged them again to be strong and faithfully serve the Lord. If they would do that, God would be with them and help them. They were again challenged to throw away any false gods. They were commanded to not intermingle with or marry those heathen that were still around. Joshua knew that the people would be drawn in to false worship and evil practices of they had connection with the other peoples around them.
Joshua reminded them that all their victories were because of God’s help. God drove out the strong armies that withstood Israel’s advances. If they compromised, they would no longer have God’s help to bring victory. The issue of compromise is still a problem for God’s people. As I write this I have just read another article about two famous church groups that are discussing compromise of moral issues because of what the world is doing. One person stated that their church wouldn’t dare call them on their decisions because it would be embarrassing and give bad publicity. Joshua wasn’t worried about bad publicity. He was concerned that the people would follow God.
2. What can I apply in my life from the reading?
One of the most challenging verses in the Bible is where Joshua told the people to make a specific choice to serve God. They were to make a deliberate and intentional decision about their spiritual service and worship. God will never allow split loyalties. Joshua said clearly that he and his household would serve the Lord God. The people said they would do so, as well. Sadly, that commitment only lasted as long as the current spiritual leaders lived. They soon forsook their commitments to serve God.
People must made a choice. People must identify not only their to serve God, but WHY they serve God. I can say that my father was a pastor, so I inherited a belief in God. No, that will never work. I must serve God because I made the decision. I must serve God because He is worthy. I must serve God because it is a commitment I want to make. I don’t think people think much about this choice. I also see that people are deceived in to thinking that no one should influence another person regarding their belief in God. That is part of the lie of the devil. Joshua said many times to the nation to pass on the good news about God to their children.
3. How can I help someone?
I want to help people see the importance of the decision to serve God. No one will ever regret their commitment to God as they enjoy the beauties of heaven forever.
Bible Chapter: Joshua 21 & 22
Because the Bible is practical, here are some statements to get you thinking.
1. Write one or two key thoughts that come from today’s reading.
The Levites were given cities throughout the land. They had spiritual responsibilities. They had carried the Tabernacle throughout the wilderness. They did not receive a specific inheritance as the land was being divided. They performed duties in the worship of God. God took care of them.
The Lord gave the nation rest. The tribes that settled on the eastern side of the Jordan River were allowed to return home as they had fulfilled their commitments. Joshua wrote that all of God’s promises were fulfilled. When the eastern tribes crossed the river and returned home, they built an altar to remind them of their connection with the rest of the tribes and let people know they were to serve God. The western tribes thought they were sinning and were ready to go to war to stop them. Thankfully, there was leadership that went and talked and they were able to settle the dispute without war.
2. What can I apply in my life from the reading?
None of God’s promises failed, they were all fulfilled. That is one of the most powerful verses in the Bible. God keeps His word. I must always remember that truth. Since God never changes, He will still fulfill His promises.
Another thought that comes to mind is the importance of living according to God’s directives. The western tribes thought the eastern tribes were sinning. It turned out that they were making a memorial to remind future generations of what God had done and the importance of worshiping God in the proper way. Every new generation must be taught God’s truths. There is a strong spiritual battle for every generation to pull them away from God. Each adult generation must not only teach, but must live a godly life.
3. How can I help someone?
Every person must grasp the truth that God keeps His word. I am often saddened when I meet people who have been deceived and lived the life of sin. The cost is so high. The blessings of obedience are worth whatever it may cost to serve God. The rewards of obedience far outweigh the temporary fun sin offers.
Bible Chapter: Joshua 19 & 20
Because the Bible is practical, here are some statements to get you thinking.
1. Write one or two key thoughts that come from today’s reading.
God continued to direct the division of the land to the tribes. He made sure that each tribe had an adequate place to live with enough room for all. God also provided a place for Joshua to live. He was given the city of Timnath Serah.
God also provided cities of refuge. If someone was involved in an accidental death, they could go to the city of refuge near them and find protection. It wasn’t that they could commit murder and get away with it, but the cities of refuge provided a safe place till a trial took place. God was and still is concerned about proper justice for people.
2. What can I apply in my life from the reading?
God is not only able to provide, He provides. In reading the story of the creation of the nation of Israel and the various stages of their development, God never had a problem in taking care of them. If they were slaves in Egypt, God was the One who got them out. When they were in the desert they had adequate food and water. When they needed to cross a strong river to get to the promised land, God held back the waters. Now we are reading about the process of settling in the land. God had a plan for that and He provided all they needed. God never changes. He takes care of His people.
3. How can I help someone?
Trust God. Live the way God expects. Israel had sad stories of when they didn’t trust and obey. There are many stories today of people who claim to be followers of the Savior who don’t act like it. Not only have the theology, have the practice of what God says. Then you will see God’s involvement, provision and protection in life.
Bible Chapter: Joshua 17 & 18
Because the Bible is practical, here are some statements to get you thinking.
1. Write one or two key thoughts that come from today’s reading.
God had given commands to Moses regarding the promised land. The people knew these promises and received them as God’s word. This is an important principle to apply. When God speaks people must listen. God’s word is authoritative and must be obeyed. The nation did a good job at this, but not always.
One of the problems they had was the tribe of Manasseh dealing with the Canaanites, who were determined to live in that region. Having failed to drive out the Canaanites, the tribe of Manasseh didn’t have enough room to live. It appears that they were afraid of them because of their armament, their iron chariots. It also appears that they were not trusting God as they previously had, considering all the battles Israel won with God’s help. God had no problem overcoming iron chariots.
2. What can I apply in my life from the reading?
Living for God is vitally important. Just as important is continuing to live for God. How does a person live, progress and finish? I have read some teachings on the concept of finishing strong. I have preached on that theme. It is important to have dreams and plans. It is important to work on them. It is very important to not give up but finish strong. It appears that some of the folks here were not sticking with God’s plans and promises. They got their eyes on the potential of prosperity and the problems they faced.
3. How can I help someone?
A verse in Proverbs tells us to not lean on our own understanding. That is really good advice. While God gives us brains and the ability to figure things out, we must first of all lean on what God says and trust that He really does know what He is doing.
Bible Chapter: Joshua 15 & 16
Because the Bible is practical, here are some statements to get you thinking.
1. Write one or two key thoughts that come from today’s reading.
In writing about the chapters I am reading in the Connect2LIFE reading program, I have to be honest that there are times when it is a challenge to write a response. These two chapters fit in that category. What can you write about geographical descriptions of land distribution? We find here very detailed information about which tribes got which parcels of land. Exciting, isn’t it?
But, God has included every part of the Bible for a reason. I believe that at least part of the reason for these chapters is to show God’s plan and fulfillment of His promises. The nation of Israel was looking for a land God had promised. They were to all received a place to live and prosper. Here we see that God is concerned with the details and He really does know what He is doing.
2. What can I apply in my life from the reading?
What can I apply? God not only knows what He is doing for the whole world, He knows what He is doing for me and my life. He has a personal concern and plan. I have sometimes struggled with this whole process. Not that I think God doesn’t know what He is doing, but that the process, the timing, the lessons learned in my wanderings through life don’t always fit my plan and timing. Seeing how God brings life together is exciting as I can look back. So, the application? Trust God and follow His directions.
3. How can I help someone?
The instructions for safely crossing a railroad track while driving have always included: stop, look and listen. That works out well for life, as well. Stop, look at what God is doing and listen to what He is saying.
Bible Chapter: Joshua 13 & 14
Because the Bible is practical, here are some statements to get you thinking.
1. Write one or two key thoughts that come from today’s reading.
The land had rest from war. But, there were still areas that needed to be conquered. The inhabitants needed to be driven out because of their evil worship. Idolatry brings problems. As time passed, the influence of idol worship continued to plague Israel.
God did guide the nation to divide the land according to the tribes. This is what God promised would happen. This gave hope to the nation and encouraged them to live in peace.
The story of Caleb in chapter 14 is very inspirational. Because of his obedience and faithfulness to God earlier in the story, God allowed him to enter the promised land. Now, at age 85, he said he was as strong as ever. He asked to be able to conquer the hill country. He told them to give him that mountain, for he would drive out the inhabitants as God had promised. And, that is just what happened.
2. What can I apply in my life from the reading?
I trust that all can be inspired by Caleb. Whatever our age, we can do anything God calls us to do. God enables. God provides. God empowers. Some people say they are too young for God to use them. Others say they are too old. Some say they don’t have enough experience or education. Yes, we have to mature, learn and gain experience. But, God will use us for His plan. In Numbers 14:24 we read God’s promise to Caleb that he would inherit that land. Here we see the fulfillment of the promise. Caleb believed God when he was a part of the group that spied the land. He believed God for forty five years. He saw God fulfill His promise.
Believe. Be faithful. See God show His power and fulfill His promises. That’s a great application to life.
3. How can I help someone?
I want to help people see God’s promises. I want to help them see the importance of submission to them and the eternal results that come. God does know what He is doing.
Bible Chapter: Joshua 11 & 12
Because the Bible is practical, here are some statements to get you thinking.
1. Write one or two key thoughts that come from today’s reading.
Obeying God brings the results desired. I see this in these chapters. Chapter 11 starts out with a group of kings all gathering together to destroy Israel. They made an army with horses and chariots as numerous as the sand of the seashore. It looked bad. But, God made a promise to Joshua. They were to not be afraid for the next day God would hand them all over to Israel. This was another lesson in trust. They were commanded to destroy the armies as well as their equipment. The good news is that Israel obeyed and they saw God miraculously give them victory.
A very important picture we see here is that God judges sin. The Canaanite inhabitants of the land were so wicked that God judged them. Wickedness will inevitably bring judgement. It will happen. Sadly, many people think they can live any way they please and nothing will happen. Their lives are mocking God. They have been deceived. God, the righteous Judge, will hold all sinners accountable. This truth has not and never will change. People today are not smarter than previous generations. We don’t have greater insights to life. God, who never changes, still keeps track of sin and righteousness in people. God is always the final Judge.
2. What can I apply in my life from the reading?
God had given directions to Moses regarding the promised land. When Israel entered, they were to conquer the land. A good teaching passage is found in the statement that Joshua took the entire land just as the Lord had directed Moses. Then the land had rest from war. They were living in obedience and saw the result of God’s help. In reading these history books I see it over and over again -- God called for obedience and blessed them when they obeyed. That truth needs to sink in. God’s law is not based on a popularity contest. God doesn’t take a poll and see what should be truth this week. He doesn’t ask people what they like best. He gives us His truth and expects obedience. He blesses obedience.
3. How can I help someone?
God is full of mercy. God does amazing things for people. People must understand that there is a limit to God’s mercy and forgiveness. Those who simply refuse to submit and live God’s way will reach a point of judgement. We see that in these chapters. I want to help people see that truth and submit to the awesome life God offers.
Bible Chapter: Joshua 9 & 10
Because the Bible is practical, here are some statements to get you thinking.
1. Write one or two key thoughts that come from today’s reading.
Israel got themselves into trouble because, as 9:14 says, “but they did not inquire of the Lord”. Men from Gibeon deceived the Israelite leaders to make them think they were from a distant land, and not close neighbors. Israel made a pact with them to not destroy them. This decision went against the commands God had given to destroy the sinful inhabitants of the land. This would lead to future problems.
In spite of the fact that they failed to ask God and made an ill-advised covenant with Gibeon, God was with them. As they faced another major battle, God promised to be with them. The enemies would not be able to stand up against Israel. As a sign, God made the sun stand still for almost a whole day as they defeated the enemy. This was an awesome sign. The God Who created it all in the first place suspended the rules of the universe and stopped things for a time. This proved God’s word to them that they were not to be afraid.
2. What can I apply in my life from the reading?
This book of history (Joshua) is a good example of God’s provision and protection. They faced many battles to take the land. God said He would be with them. History repeats itself and there are constantly battles. Today the battles we face are spiritual battles. God is still with His people to take them through. I must always remember this. I must continue to put my trust in God to win. As in these chapters, today there are many “cities” to conquer.
3. How can I help someone?
A passage from Proverbs comes to mind here. A paraphrase: Trust in God with all your heart, don’t try to figure it out, in everything you to recognize God, He will give you His direction.
Bible Chapter: Joshua 7 & 8
Because the Bible is practical, here are some statements to get you thinking.
1. Write one or two key thoughts that come from today’s reading.
People still do what Achan did, disobey and think God isn’t going to know. They were specifically warned to leave everything in Jericho, to take no spoils. He was caught with greed and envy and took some clothes and precious metals. This brought a curse on the whole nation. His sin was exposed to the nation and he was punished for his sin. God’s desire was for them to be a holy and obedient people. By judging Achan, the people knew God was serious about His expectation of obedience. God does not tolerate sin.
After the exposure of sin in the camp, God directed them to go out and conquer Ai. This time they were successful. And, this time they were instructed to take spoils of war. Jericho was the first, but the other cities were not devoted to God. They conquered the city and destroyed it, just as they were commanded. God was judging the inhabitants of the land for their sinful lives and worship of false gods.
2. What can I apply in my life from the reading?
Joshua built an altar and worshiped God. He wrote down the commands of the Law of God and read it to all the people. We all need constant reminders of what God has said. We need to hear so we know what God expects. Then we must obey. The nation needed a reminder at that time to help keep their focus on God’s commands. Everyone in the nation, the men, women and children, all heard the reading. They all knew what God expected.
3. How can I help someone?
People must understand that God really does see everything. There are countless examples in life of people who think they can hide sinful things and get away with them. God sees. The time will come when people will be held accountable for their sins. I want to help people see and know this, and repent before it is too late.
Bible Chapter: Joshua 5 & 6
Because the Bible is practical, here are some statements to get you thinking.
1. Write one or two key thoughts that come from today’s reading.
Israel was finally in the promised land. They celebrated the Passover while camped at Gilgal on the plains of Jericho. Their ancestors had celebrated the Passover when the left Egypt. The next day they ate some of the produce of the land, and the manna stopped. For forty years Israel had received a daily supply of food miraculously provided by God. Now that they were in the land and there was food available, God’s provision stopped.
God’s first plan for them in taking the land was the conquest of Jericho. This was a fortified city that was thought to be impregnable. They people thought it was protected by the gods of the Canaanites. For Israel to conquer it through God’s power showed the superiority of God. God gave them a unique strategy that proved His power. After walking around the city daily for a week, they shouted praises to God and blew the trumpets. Those walls that seemed unassailable came tumbling down. The city was conquered. The battle plan was revealed to Joshua by God’s messenger, the commander of the army of the Lord. There is a spiritual battle happening that we can’t see. God is our protector and victor.
2. What can I apply in my life from the reading?
One of the facts of the conquest of Jericho is that it was the first city they defeated. God had given specific directions that they were to take NO spoils of war. It was common for a victorious army to loot the conquered. Since this was the first, it belonged to God. This shows us the law of the first things. Throughout the Bible God always received the first. This speaks to us today as well. The first, the tithe of our increase, belongs to God. Learning to tithe to the Lord is a lesson that makes one stronger in the Lord. It opens up the path for God’s provision and blessing. The firstfruits always belong to God. Some in Israel might have thought it was a waste to let things just lay there, but God wasn’t concerned about that. They needed to be reminded of this important principle. Many today ask how they can afford to tithe. The real question is how we can afford to not tithe.
3. How can I help someone?
We can see God’s provision with the manna they ate for forty years. We see God’s expectation of His people when He calls for the first to be brought to Him. God has no problem in providing for His people. We must learn to obey. That always works best.
