Romans 5 “The Wonder Of it All”

“But God demonstrated His own love toward us, in that while we were yet sinners, Christ died for us.” (v.8)

The love of God goes beyond all human understanding. With our finite minds it is impossible to fathom how a holy God should so love sinners - that He would actually give His very own Son to die that they might be saved. Who of us would ever give one of our precious children to die, that the world's worst criminal might be spared from paying his just debt to society? I think we all know the answer to that question.

You and I, are sinners; but despite our faults, God loved us so much that He was willing to send His Son to die in agony and shame to save us. The wonderd of all that is, God loves us unconditionally out of His own nature. In 1956 George Beverly Shea wrote both the lyrics and the music to the old gospel hymn, "The Wonder Of It All." The simple message behind that wonderful hymn is just that, the wonder that God loved us. Anyone who ever went to or heard a Billy Graham Crusade would no doubt have heard this closing hymn.

Yes, God hates sin, but He loves the sinner. Truly there is no greater love than this. Take the time to thank Him for that love, especially during this time of year. And, if you would like to experience His love in your life today, simply pray the prayer to the right of this page (see connect with God).

The Truth: “For God so loved the world that He gave His only begotten Son, that whoever believes in Him should not perish but have everlasting life.” (John 3:16)

Romans 4 "Abraham Believed God"

What then shall we say that Abraham our father has found according to the flesh? For if Abraham was justified by works, he has something to boast about, but not before God. For what does the Scripture say? “Abraham believed God, and it was accounted to him for righteousness.” (vv.1-3)

Building on the thought begun in Romans 3:31 Paul asks the question, “Does the idea of justification through faith, apart from the works of the law, make what God did in the Old Testament irrelevant?” In answering that question, Paul looks at Abraham, who was the most esteemed man among the Jewish people of his day – even greater than the “George Washington” of the American people. If anyone could be justified by works, they (or in this case he) would have something to boast about. Nevertheless such boasting is nothing before God. In other words, even if works could justify a man, he would in some way still fall short of the glory of God (Romans 3:23).

So, what does the Scripture say? The Old Testament does not say Abraham was declared righteous because of his works. Instead, Genesis 15:6 says that Abraham believed God and it was accounted to him for righteousness. Paul makes it clear, it was a righteousness obtained through faith. Our justification is not God making us perfectly righteous, but counting us as perfectly righteous. After we are counted righteous, then God begins making us truly righteous, culminating at our resurrection. 

What makes Abraham's faith so exemplary? God called Abram to leave his homeland, friends, and family and move to a foreign land. He promised to bless Abram's posterity and honor him among nations (Genesis 12:1-3). At age 75 we can only imagine receiving this call upon our lives! But without hesitation, “Abram left, as the Lord had told him” (Gen.12:4).

Today's chapter also draws attention to the quality and motivation of his faith. It paints a picture of persistent, and ever-growing unbendable trust in God's power to fulfill His promises (vv.18-21). The character of God, on which Abraham waged his whole life, was specifically His creative, life-giving power. Abraham was, “fully convinced that what He had promised He was also able to perform” (v. 21). Therefore, “it was credited to him as righteousness” (v.22).

May God give us all half of the faith of Abraham.

The Truth: “Therefore from one man (Abraham), and him as good as dead, were born as many as the stars of the sky in multitude – innumerable as the sand which is by the seashore” - Hebrews 11:12. (because Abraham believed) 

God’s Gift To All”

 Jesus came to this earth, by Gods' plan and design.

The place of His birth, marked by a heavenly sign.

A new star above, showed the place where He lay.

The Fathers' gift, sound asleep on the hay.

So innocent and pure, this gift to man.

Would later receive, Roman nails in His hands.

Born to die, His life He gave.

So all might live, and their souls be saved.

One day all will answer, for what they have done.

With Gods' gift to the world, His only son.

So accept His gift, and your soul you will save.

From the wages of sin, and the death of the grave.

Merry Christmas

The Truth

"For by grace you have been saved, through faith, and that not of yourselves: it is a "gift of God." (Ephesians 2:8)

Matthew 1”Why Was Jesus Born (Sent)”

 “She  (Mary) will bear a Son; and you (Joseph) shall call His name Jesus, for He will save His people from their sins.” (Matthew 1:21)

As we approach Christmas, it’s good to remember "why Jesus was born." The Son of God did not come to establish a nostalgic, family-oriented, commercially successful holiday. The angel told Joseph: “Mary will bring forth a Son, and you shall call His name Jesus, for He will save His people from their sins” (v. 21). This unspeakable gift to man would later become the sacrificial, spotless lamb, who's blood would be shed for the sins of the world.  

He truly was a "gift" from God, sent to a sin-damaged world who without Him would be lost in their trespasses and sin: “For the wages of sin is death, but the gift of God is eternal life in Christ Jesus our Lord” (Rom. 6:23). Yet, "God sent not His Son into the world to condemn the world, but that the world through Him might be saved" (John 3:17). And that my friends is why Jesus was born. 

If you have not accepted this life changing gift, what better time than now, and celebrate your spiritual birthday with His. The best gift ever was wrapped in swaddling clothes and laid in a manger, all you have to do is accept it. Now that would be something to celebrate at Christmas!

 The Truth: “Behold, a virgin shall conceive and bear a Son, and shall call His name Immanuel,” which is translated, “God with us.” (Isaiah 7:14)

Matthew 2 “The Magi”

Now after Jesus was born in Bethlehem of Judea in the days of Herod the king, behold, wise men from the East came to Jerusalem, saying, “Where is He who has been born King of the Jews? For we have seen His star in the East and have come to worship Him.” (vv.1-2)

Matthew actually tells us little about the birth of Jesus; Luke 2 records those familiar details. What Matthew does tells us regards something that happened after Jesus was born in Bethlehem, "Wise men came from the East in the days of Herod the king." This gives us a chronological marking point, as Jesus was born before the death of Herod the Great, which is probably to be dated in 4 BC; the exact date of Jesus’ birth is unknown.

These travelers from the east are called wise men, which in the ancient Greek is Magi. They were not kings but astronomers, and probably traveled with a great company. They seem to have come not on the birth night, but probably several months later. Guided by the astronomical phenomenon mentioned in our text (His Star), they came to the area and expected to find answers in Jerusalem. They expected that the leaders and people of this capital city of the Jews would be even more interested than they were. Yet all were unaware.

Upon asking king Herod the question, "Where is He who has been born King of the Jews," he was troubled, and all Jerusalem with him. Gathering together all the chief priests and scribes of the people, Herod inquired of them where the Messiah was to be born. They then said to him, “In Bethlehem of Judea; for this is what has been written by the prophet:  ‘And you, Bethlehem, land of Judah, Are by no means least among the leaders of Judah; For out of you shall come forth a Ruler Who will shepherd My people Israel’ (Micah 5:2).

The fact that Herod had to instruct his advisors to search the archives for information, pointed to his lack of knowledge of the scriptures, and the time which was at hand. While all missed the time and location of His birth, the shepherds did not. To this Spurgeon states, “It has been truly remarked that the shepherds did not miss their way; they came to Christ at once, while the wise men, even with a star to guide them, yet missed their way, and went to Jerusalem instead of to Bethlehem, and enquired at the palace of Herod (who would seek to kill the child), instead of at the stable where the Christ was born.”

Nevertheless the motive of these Magi (realizing that this Son that has been born is to be the Messiah, King of the Jews and over all of the earth), was that they wanted to come and worship Him, behold His glory, to be obedient subjects and show the reverence that is due to Him, solely because of who He was - something even His own people missed. 

Sadly today people are still missing their way to Jesus, not looking to worship Him for who He is, but like Herod, how they might destroy His message and elevate themselves. Jesus said, "What does it profit a man if he gains the whole world, yet loses his own soul?" (Mark 8:36) As for me, give me Jesus.  

The Truth: "And you, Bethlehem, land of Judah, are by no means least among the leaders of Judah; For out of you shall come forth a Ruler, Who will shepherd My people Israel." (Micah 5:2)

Matthew 2 "The Guiding Light"

Now after Jesus was born in Bethlehem of Judea in the days of Herod the king, behold, wise men from the East came to Jerusalem, saying, “Where is He who has been born King of the Jews? For we have seen His star in the East and have come to worship Him.” (Matthew 2:1-2)

The Christmas song, “We Three Kings” speaks to us of the “guiding light” which lead the Magi West from Persia to Jerusalem and eventually to Bethlehem, the birth place of Jesus. In the gospel of Matthew (2:2) this light is referred to as, "His Star."

Not much is known about the exact identity of the Magi but they were most likely Gentiles of high position from a country northeast of Babylon, who were given a special revelation by God concerning the birth of, the King of the Jews. Some Bible scholars believe the revelation came through knowledge of Balaam’s prophecy concerning the “star” that would “come out of Jacob” (Num. 24:17). Others simply believe it came to them in the sky, as we are told in Matthew’s Gospel, “they had seen His star in the East.” (Matthew 2:2) Whatever the source, the Magi came to Jerusalem to worship the new-born King of the Jews and to pay Him tribute of Gold, Incense and Myrrh.

On their journey from Jerusalem to Bethlehem “the star” they had seen in the East, reappeared and led them to the specific house in Bethlehem where they found the Child Jesus. (Matthew 2:9-11) Two things of interest here; the movement of the star which lead them to a specific house in Bethlehem 5 miles south of Jerusalem (Stars” naturally travel from east to west across the heavens, not from north to south), and the baby is now referred to as a child (meaning some time had passed form His birth in the manger).  

The response of the wise men upon finding Jesus was entirely appropriate, and their actions serve as a model of true discipleship. First they sought the Christ child (Matt. 2:2), then, when they had found their way to Him they rejoiced (Matt.2:10). Finally, seeing the child they worshiped Him (Matt. 2:11), and offered him gifts that befit a king (Matt.2:11; cf. Pss 45:7-9; 72:15).

The response of Herod on the other hand was completely different. First, he did not seek to honor the baby Jesus, in fact He was not even aware of His birth under His very nose until the Magi inquired. Second, once he learned of it from the Magi, he tried to deceive them into returning to give him the exact location of Christ child in order that he might supposedly worship Him. But in his heart he had other plans. 

Two different people groups with two different reactions. The wise men (from the east, gentiles) worshiped Jesus. While Herod (part Jewish, ruler of the nation), sought to kill him. This early division and the different reactions over the announcement of the birth of Christ, would mark His ministry His entire life. There would be no middle ground. Some would seek Him for life, while others would seek Him to take His life.

The same is true today for many people. Some are like Herod and reject Jesus, while others are like the Magi and see Him for who He is; the Messiah, King of Kings and Lord of Lords, the Savior of mankind, the "Light of the World." God's gift to all - if we will only receive it.

The Truth: “A Star shall rise out of Jacob. A Scepter shall rise out of Israel.” (Numbers 24:17)

                 I am the Root and the Offspring of David, the Bright and Morning Star.” (Rev.22:16

                 Merry Christmas.

Romans 3 "Jesus Paid It All"

Even the righteousness of God, through faith in Jesus Christ, to all and on all who believe. For there is no difference; For all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God, being justified freely by His grace through the redemption that is in Christ Jesus.” (vv. 22-24)

In Romans 3:21, Paul told us how this righteousness does not come. It does not come through the deeds of the law, it is apart from the law. Now Paul tells us how this saving righteousness does come. It is through faith in Jesus Christ to all and on all who believe. The righteousness of God is not ours by faith; it is ours through faith. We do not earn righteousness by our faith. We receive righteousness through faith in Jesus Christ. There is no other way to obtain this righteousness. This righteousness is not earned through obedience to the law; it is a received righteousness, gained through faith in Jesus Christ.

Few things of value are inexpensive, and fewer still are free. But salvation—the most important gift of all—is free. Unlike anything of material value, salvation is of infinite value, and yet, it is free. As the hymn Elvina Hall wrote while sitting in a choir loft in a Methodist Church in 1865 reminds us, “Jesus paid it all, all to Him we owe.”

Scripture tells us no one can earn salvation (Eph. 2:8-9). And we know from our text we need only to believe in Jesus to receive His free gift of eternal life that God offers through His Son. The paradox here is, while salvation is free to us, its cost to God was great – the sacrificial death of His Son. Oswald Chambers wrote, “Forgiveness, which is so easy for us to accept, cost the agony at Calvary.”

It is the cross of Christ that bridges the gap we could never cross on our own, and justifies us by His grace to stand before a Holy God, sanctified. It is the cross that unites us as one body of believers in which there is no difference; Jew or Greek, rich or poor, male or female, blue collar or white collar. And as believers, we are of one family, adopted sons and daughters of God through the purchase of Jesus Christ at Calvary, justified by faith in Him.

The Truth: “For you were bought with a price: therefore glorify God in your body, and in your spirit, which are His.” (1 Corinthians 6:20)

Romans 2 "Judge Not"

“Therefore you have no excuse, everyone of you who passes judgment, for in that which you judge another, you condemn yourself; for you who judge practice the same things.” (v.1)

The kind of judgement Paul is talking about here is a type of righteous condemnation. One that speaks of judging another for similar actions taken by the one who judges. That kind of judgment is wrong because we all sin. Therefore, sense all sin, none should judge, not even the chief of priests. For none is free from the condemnation of the law.

The apostle Paul, once a very strict Pharisee, came to realized he too was not above anyone, eventually seeing himself to be, "the chief” of all sinners (1 Timothy 1:15). He knew the Lord had been patient and merciful to him, so he wanted to extend that same patience and mercy to others.

Today, if we take the time to see ourselves in others, we’ll see that Christ’s forgiveness does not reflect our superiority but God’s mercy. By overlooking the faults of others, we can take a big step towards overcoming our own. The apostle Paul said, "God will judge, and His judgement is according to truth" (v.2). 

As Dr. MeGee would so often say, "I'll just leave it right there."

The Truth: “Judge not, that you be not judged. For with what judgment you judge, you will be judged; and with the measure you use, it will be measured back to you.” (Matthew 7:1-2) 

Romans 1 “Salvation Available To Everyone Who Believes”

For I am not ashamed of the gospel of Christ, for it is the power of God to salvation for everyone who believes.” (v.16)

After a short greeting (v.1-7) and an explanation of his desire to have visited them sooner (v.13), Paul sets the tone of his letter to the Romans here in verse 16 concerning “the gospel” (good news) of Christ. The “good news” he presents to them without shame is, “the gospel of Christ contains the power of God to salvation for everyone who believes.” 

The key words being “everyone who believes.” Paul’s message of grace is so simple, that this is where many are vulnerable to error. We begin to think there is something else we should do, some works we should perform.   

Paul goes on to tell us in verse 17 that, “the righteousness of God is revealed from faith to faith” and that “the just should live by faith.” Therefore, faith is not only the starting point of salvation, but also the staying power as well. Meaning, once we as Christians have received Christ by faith, we walk through this life with Him in faith as well. 

The Christian life is not without “trials and tribulations.” But as Paul reminded the Galatians, “Having begun (your walk) in the Spirit, are you now perfected in your own flesh (knowledge)?” No! “For those who are in the flesh can not please God” (Romans 8:8) 

Therefore, Paul would say to us, “Walk ye in Him” (Colossians 2:6)

Joshua 24 “ Joshua’s Legacy”

“Israel served the Lord all the days of Joshua, and all the days of the elders who outlived Joshua, who had known all the works of the Lord which He had done for Israel.” (v.31)

Not many leaders in all of history could lay claim to what is said of Joshua in verse 31. His nation served the Lord until the day he died, and even after that throughout the lives of the other leaders who served under him.

Joshua died at the age of 110, and what an eventful 110-year period it was. When Joshua was born, Israel was under captivity in Egypt. When he died, they were enjoying the peace and riches of the Promised Land. He held the distinct honor of being buried in the same land as Joseph, of whom Joshua was a direct descendant. And the book of Joshua concludes with the burial of Eleazar, the High Priest. So in the land of the sons of Joseph were buried a general, a priest, and a forefather of the nation. We get the sense that an era of faithfulness is drawing to a close in Israel. The years that followed would be marked by a cycle of disobedience, judgment, and redemption, which makes Joshua's consistent leadership and Israel's faithfulness under him all the more remarkable. 

God called Joshua to lead His people, which involved being strong, courageous, and obedient. Courage, strength, and submission don't often materialize in one man, but when they do, it makes for a powerful combination. 

If you're looking for that secret ingredient that made Joshua a great leader, don't look at Joshua. Look to God. His power, His Word, and His faithfulness are all available to you. Then you have to look at yourself. If making money, having fun, and being popular are among your top goals, you can never be the leader Joshua was. But if serving the Lord is your definition of success, God will give you the strength and courage to fulfill your purpose.

The Truth: “O God, You are more awesome than Your holy places. The God of Israel is He who gives strength and power to His people. Blessed be God!” (Psalm 68:35)

Joshua 23 "Joshua's Warning"

“For the LORD has driven out from before you great and strong nations; but as for you, no one has been able to stand against you to this day. One man of you shall chase a thousand, for the LORD your God is He who fights for you, as He promised you. Be very careful, therefore, to love the LORD your God. For if you turn back and cling to the remnant of these nations remaining among you and make marriages with them, so that you associate with them and they with you, know for certain that the LORD your God will no longer drive out these nations before you, but they shall be a snare and a trap for you, a whip on your sides and thorns in your eyes, until you perish from off this good ground that the LORD your God has given you.” (v.9-13)

Here in chapter 23, Joshua is calling together the leaders of the nation to pass on some advice for those in authority before he dies. He begins by speaking to them of God's blessings, "For the LORD has driven out from before you great and strong nations; but as for you, no one has been able to stand against you to this day. One man of you shall chase a thousand, for the LORD your God is He who fights for you, as He promised you."

Then comes the warning, "Be careful to Love the LORD your God." Meaning Israel must, as Jude puts it, keep yourselves in the love of God (Jude 1:21) if they want to be successful in possessing the land the LORD had promised them.  Continually loving the LORD takes diligence. This call to love God is an appeal to the will, which means a spiritual struggle against the flesh. For there are (both then and now) many things that wage war against our will. Joshua's warning here is not only to love God, but to not turn back and cling to other ways (v.12). Israel must hold fast to the LORD their God.

Continuing in God’s love will mean that the people must keep themselves separate from the ungodly influences around them; they must keep themselves unspotted from the world (James 1:27). They must remain separate from other nations and their practices. And if they do not separate themselves from the ungodly influences around them, then those influences will become to them instruments of torture, leading to their destruction (v.13).

Joshua could see the possibility of trouble ahead. He knew what "a little leaven" could do to the nation from within. And his warnings to the people are just as important today as they were then - we need to pay attention to them. It is easy for us to forget the Lord and what He has done for us. It is so easy for us to get caught up in what's going on in the world around us that we forget there is a world to come. 

Because there is so much to lose, let’s take to heart the warning of Joshua, “Take good heed therefore to yourselves, that you love the LORD your God.” (v.11)

The Truth: “The Lord preserves all who love Him, But all the wicked He will destroy.” (Psalm 145:20)

Joshua 22 "Look Before You Leap"

“When they came to the region of the Jordan which is in the land of Canaan, the sons of Reuben and the sons of Gad and the half-tribe of Manasseh built an altar there by the Jordan, a large altar in appearance.” (v.10)

Jumping to wrong conclusions can have very serious consequences. Here in Joshua 22:10-34, we read of a flawed first impression which almost led to an internal conflict between the tribes of Israel.  

The tribes of Reuben, Gad, and Manasseh had built an altar near the Jordan. When the other tribes learned about this, they were enraged (v.9-12) because God had commanded that He alone would be worshiped and that sacrifices be performed only in the tabernacle ( Ex.20:3; Lev.17:8-9). They saw the building of this altar as an act of apostasy.

Fortunately, Phinehas the priest led a delegation to find out why they had built the altar (vv.13-33). Crisis averted because Phinehas was willing to confront them in love.

Often our first impressions can be wrong. Open communication, however, can correct misunderstandings that are created by our own pride and prejudice. Grandpa was right again. It’s always better to look before you leap.

The Truth: “Test all things; hold fast what is good.” (1 Thessalonians 5:21)

Joshua 21 “The God Of His Word”

“Not a single one of all the good promises the Lord had given to the family of Israel was left unfulfilled; everything He had spoken came true.” (NLT)

Not only did God fulfill His promises to the nation of Israel but He also kept His promises to Joshua personally. Back in chapter 1 the LORD said to Joshua, “There shall not any man be able to stand before you all the days of your life: as I was with Moses, so I will be with you: I will not fail you, nor forsake you.”  Joshua went forward believing in God’s Word, to eventually claim all that He had promised to fulfill.

We too are given this same promise. And like Joshua we too can move forward in our lives believing in His Word and claim all that God has for us. However, just like Joshua, we must not falter, give up, or lose hope – but fully trust in God and His Word.

The Truth

“For all the promises of God in Him are Yes, and in Him Amen, to the glory of God through us.” (2 Corinthians 1:20)

Joshua 20 “Cities Of Refuge”

“The LORD also spoke to Joshua, saying, “Speak to the children of Israel, saying: ‘Appoint for yourselves cities of refuge, of which I spoke to you through Moses, that the slayer who kills a person accidentally or unintentionally may flee there; and they shall be your refuge from the avenger of blood.’” (vv.1-3)

God now tells Joshua to fulfill what the LORD had commanded through Moses in Numbers 35 – the appointment of six cities of refuge. The purpose of the cities of refuge was to protect the slayer who kills any person accidentally or unintentionally. They were to protect someone in the case of manslaughter as opposed to murder. Such a person needed protection against the avenger of blood. The Hebrew word for this phrase is goel, and in this context means the representative from the victim’s family charged with making sure justice is carried out against the murderer of the family member.

God had a passion to make sure that murderers were punished in ancient Israel, and in that culture, the final responsibility for justice rested with the designated goel (avenger of blood) in the family. The principle for capital punishment goes back to Genesis 9:6: Whoever sheds man’s blood, by man his blood shall be shed; for in the image of God He made man. The state’s right to use the sword of execution is also stated in the New Testament (Romans 13:3-4). The avenger of blood would track down the murderer, and if necessary, delivered him over to the authorities for execution. This was providing the testimony of two or three eyewitnesses could confirm the guilt of the murderer according to Deuteronomy 17:6-7.

Since the avenger of blood might set himself against a person guilty of manslaughter (accidental or unintentional killing) instead of murder, the cities of refuge were established to protect the person innocent of murder. These cities of refuge (listed in ch.20) were not for Hebrews only, but for whosoever had killed any person without malice or forethought, but quite unintentionally. If some poor Gentile, sojourning among the chosen people, suddenly found himself liable to the pursuit of an avenger of blood - the gates of the refuge city were open to him. And the elders of the city were bound to give him a place that he might dwell safely and rest in peace (v.4) until justice was served (v.6).

If the accused was convicted of murder, a relative of the victim was permitted to avenge the murder by taking the life of the guilty person (v.19). Even if he was deemed innocent of malicious, intentional murder, causing a death was still a serious offense, and the offender couldn't leave the city of refuge until the death of the high priest without fearing for his life (vv. 26-28).

We may wonder at this, but God wanted to stress that all life is valuable, and there is punishment for murder and consequences even for accidents. Yet God still demonstrated His mercy by instituting protections in the legal system and by providing cities of refuge. God places tremendous value on human life. He would do anything to save a life, but He can't ignore justice to do it.

The Bible applies this picture of the city of refuge to the believer finding refuge in God on more than one occasion: Psalm 46:1: God is our refuge and strength, a very present help in trouble. More than 15 other times, the Psalms speak of God as our refuge. Yet, there is a crucial distinction between the cities of refuge and our refuge in Jesus. The cities of refuge only helped the innocent, but the guilty can come to Jesus and find refuge.

The Truth: “If  we confess your sin, He is faithful and just to forgive us our sin and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness." (! John 1:9) 

Joshua 19 “Joshua’s Inheritance”

“When they had made an end of dividing the land for inheritance by their coasts, the children of Israel gave an inheritance to Joshua the son of Nun among them: According to the word of the LORD they gave him the city which he asked, even Timnathserah in mount Ephraim: and he built the city, and dwelled therein.” (v.49-50)

After everyone else had been assigned land, only then did Joshua claim his. He did not ask for the most fertile, nor did he demand land near the coast. He asked for and was granted an area in mount Ephraim. A challenging area to settle but, built a city and dwelt there.

What a great example of humility, giving up all other lands to his people, taking on the tougher territory and willing to roll up his sleeves and work for his abundance. Jesus spoke a great deal about humility and He was living proof that He came to serve rather than being served (Matt. 20:28).

As true leadership begins and ends with leading by example, both Jesus and Joshua’s self-sacrificial lives are good ones to follow. 

The Truth: “Humble yourself in the sight of the LORD, and He will lift you up.” (James 4:10) 

Joshua 18 "Claim Your Land"

"Now the whole congregation of the children of Israel assembled together at Shiloh, and set up the tabernacle of meeting there. And the land was subdued before them. But there remained among the children of Israel seven tribes which had not yet received their inheritance. Then Joshua said to the children of Israel: “How long will you neglect to go and possess the land which the LORD God of your fathers has given you? (vv.1-3)

Why would these seven tribes not want to possess their land? Probably because these are people who had not lived in permanent dwellings for more than a generation, and they were afraid of something new, even if it was good. Whatever the exact reason, the bottom line was neglect. They did not fulfill what God had called them to do.

Therefore Joshua both reproofs the slackness of the seven remaining tribes who have not taken possession of their lands and, tells them how to proceed (v.4). Like any good leader, Joshua made sure that those under his guidance got the push they needed to step out on their own.

Like many in the church today, there are those who are ready to claim their own ministries but have grown comfortably attached to the security provided by the church. But, just like the seven tribes, there will come a time when both leadership and God’s Spirit will push those He has chosen into claiming their land. And in so doing, another church will be planted.

Just as Joshua did his part and the seven tribes eventually did theirs, so we need to do our part as well. Claim your land.

The Truth: “For all the promises of God in Him are Yes, and in Him Amen, to the glory of God through us.” (1 Corinthians 1:20) 

Joshua 17 "Stop Complaining - Get Moving"

Then the children of Joseph spoke to Joshua, saying, “Why have you given us only one lot and one share to inherit, since we are a great people, inasmuch as the LORD has blessed us until now?” So Joshua answered them, “If you are a great people, then go up to the forest country and clear a place for yourself there in the land of the Perizzites and the giants, since the mountains of Ephraim are too confined for you.” (vv.14-15)

The sons of Joseph, Manasseh and Ephraim, were large tribes. Their combined number was greater than any other single tribe. Here in our text they complain that they have not been allotted adequate land. Joshua’s reply is both wise and practical. He tells them, “if you are a great people, then go and get the land for yourself; fully occupy what the LORD has given you.” These tribes had not completely taken the mountain country in their allotted territory, because it would be hard and dangerous work.

Joshua, as a public person, had no more regard for his own tribe than of any other, and governed without favor or affection. Here in our text he leaves us a good example on how to do just that. Joshua rejects his own tribe’s request for additional land and tells them that their share would be a sufficient lot for them, if they would but work and fight.

How different is their attitude from Caleb’s attitude (Joshua 14:11-12)! They want “easy land” given to them, instead of taking God’s promises and going out and taking what God has given them. The principle applies just as strongly for us today; if we desire more of something, the first thing to do is to be as faithful as we can where we are.

Therefore, if we belong to Him, He will stir us up to our best endeavors and we will work to the glory of God. Then our coast will be enlarged (1Ch 4:9,10), our complaints silenced, and our hearts turned into joyful thanksgivings.

Take a page from the book of Joshua and from his own example and encourage those around you to work for what they want. Then watch as joy will fill their hearts.   

The Truth: “The ants are a people not strong, yet they prepare their food in the summer.” (Proverbs 30:25)

Joshua 16 "Ephraim’s Failure"

“And they drove not out the Canaanites that dwelled in Gezer: but the Canaanites dwell among the Ephraimites to this day, and serve under tribute.” (v.10)

Here in our text the word “they” refers to both Ephraim and Manasseh. So both tribes of the children of Joseph failed to drive out the Canaanites from their cities. Their failure to completely drive out the Canaanites is typical of all the tribes. Perhaps the people of Ephraim were guilty of this compromise because they wanted forced laborers among them. Even this convenience does not justify their disobedience to God’s command.

If they had the power to make the people of Gezer forced laborers, they certainly had the power to defeat them completely, especially because Gezer was a city that Joshua had already conquered (Joshua 10:33 and Joshua 12:12). This sort of compromise seems innocent, but it became the way that much idolatry and immoral worship was adopted by the people of Israel. This is one reason why we see so many struggles in the days of the Judges.

Although they lacked the courage to take on the iron chariots of the Canaanites, they had the nerve later to ask Joshua for a larger inheritance. (Joshua 17:14) Ephraim’s failure to trust in God for His deliverance over the Canaanites exposed them to a continual burden of overseeing them as servants and the idolatrous practices and customs of these wicked people. For the sake of ease and money, they disobeyed God and fell short of what He had for them.

Faith is not a passive journey. It requires action in a direction we often may not see a way through. However, God will honor your faith through your own courageous obedience.

The Truth: “Now faith is the substance of things hoped for, the evidence of things not seen.” (Hebrews 11:1) 

Joshua 15 “Judah’s Campaign”

“Now as for the Jebusites, the inhabitants of Jerusalem, the sons of Judah could not drive them out..” (v.63a)

Here we see that the tribe of Judah was not able to drive out the Jebusites from Jerusalem. We can understand why Jerusalem was a city hard to conquer. The fact that it was set on a hill made it easy to defend. But this was to be the permanent home of the line of kings and the temple. Therefore, occupation by worshipers of other gods was unacceptable. Yet they did not complete the task and fully claim the land.

This task then was left to another generation to fulfill. King David would finally finish the job of claiming the land exclusively for Israel. After David was anointed king in Hebron, his next action was to attack the Jebusites in Jerusalem.

For Israel, the courage to fully claim the land that God promised came a few generations later, but God didn't waver in His faithfulness. Even though Israel failed in completing some of the tasks God had commanded them, He remained true to His covenant with them.

As David showed us, strength and courage are indispensable in battle—but they're also a necessity in the fight against sin. Don't believe the lie that you simply can't overcome sin in your life. The Lord is with us! Ask the Holy Spirit to help you drive out sinful attitudes and protect you from unrighteous behavior and reactions. Don't be discouraged and don't wait for the next generation to fight the battle for you. Do it now! For no matter how hard the struggle, with God’s promise, and God’s help, you can triumph. 

Just as there is really no good excuse as to why this city stayed in Canaanite hands until the time of David (2 Samuel 5:6-10), so there is no good excuse why you can't overcome the sin in your life today.

The Truth: And David said to his son Solomon, “Be strong and of good courage, and do it; do not fear nor be dismayed, for the Lord God—my God—will be with you. He will not leave you nor forsake you, until you have finished all the work for the service of the house of the Lord.” (1 Chronicles 28:20)

Joshua 14 "A Forty-Five Year Old Promise"

"The Lord has kept me alive, as He said, these forty-five years, ever since the Lord spoke this word to Moses.” (v.10)

In Joshua 14 we read that Caleb did not allow his advancing age to prevent him from believing that God would still honor His promise given 45 years earlier (Joshua 14:10-12). As one of the original scouts sent into the Promised Land, he saw large cities inhabited by powerful people of great stature. But Caleb was faithful to God and believed He would help the Israelites conquer the land (Joshua 14:6-9). 

Now at 85 years of age, Caleb was still physically strong and his faith unwavering. He trusted that God would help him to conquer the land, even though it still had giants. So Joshua blessed Caleb with his portion of the land, fulfilling God’s 45-year-old promise. Despite all the land Caleb received, a greater reward was the compliment he received in verse 14: “He followed the Lord, the God of Israel, wholeheartedly.” 

Caleb's example is an inspirational reminder of purpose for believers as we advance in years: growing older, but never weaker in Jesus. Caleb wanted to fight for the promise. He could have asked for an easy place, but he knows that these foes must be faced and figures that he may as well be the one to do it. He doesn’t leave the work to someone else, though he could have, especially at his age.

Following God with courage and confidence was his lifelong pursuit. Such was the legacy of Caleb.

The Truth: “My sheep hear My voice, and I know them, and they follow Me. And I give them eternal life, and they shall never perish; neither shall anyone snatch them out of My hand.” (John 10:27-28)

Joshua 13 "The Greater Inheritance"

"But to the tribe of Levi Moses had given no inheritance; the Lord God of Israel was their inheritance, as He had said to them.” (v.33)

As we read through chapter 13 and the description of the land Moses had allotted to the tribes of Reuben, Gad, and half of Manasseh, we are twice reminded of what Moses didn't assign, land to the tribe of Levi. Instead, the Levites had as their inheritance portions of the offerings that Israel would bring to the LORD. These were their “financial security” in Israel. And this practice reminded the Levites (and the rest of Israel) that God provided for their sustenance. Additionally in verse 14 we are told that the Levites received a greater inheritance than that: God Himself. Meaning, the LORD God of Israel was their inheritance. 

In this sense, if there is any tribe that Christians are spiritually connected to, it is the tribe of Levi. For in scripture we (Christians) also are called priests (1 Peter 2:5) and have a special inheritance in God (Ephesians 1:11, Colossians 1:12, and 1 Peter 1:4) - far better than the material, which is fleeting at best. We (Christians) then, like the Levites, now have an enduring intimate connection to God that could not be invaded or stolen, which is greatest inheritance of all! 

However, many Christians today become dissatisfied with their place before God. I call it the James and John syndrome. They look around at others and wish they would have been given something different, and can even become bitter towards God about this. The primary answer to this is to see ourselves as priests and to understand that our real inheritance is God Himself.

The Levites weren't missing out on any added bonus—knowing God is a reward in itself. If you find that your focus has shifted to what you do not have, turn your attention to what you do possess - your inheritance through Jesus Christ.

The Truth: “Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, who according to His abundant mercy has begotten us again to a living hope through the resurrection of Jesus Christ from the dead, to an inheritance incorruptible and undefiled and that does not fade away, reserved in heaven for you.” (1 Peter 1:3-4) 

Joshua 12 "Defeated Kings"

Chapter 12 is a review of all the kings and kingdoms defeated under the leadership of both Moses and Joshua. Later, in chapter 13:7 it will become clear what makes this military conquest different than any other, for Israel wasn't just taking the land, they were inheriting it!  

Scripture tells us that the land Joshua and Israel occupied was the result of a promise from God to Abraham, the father of the entire nation of Israel. His descendants inherited, not by force but by faith, a peaceful existence in perhaps the most desirable land on the face of the earth. God had set apart the land and prepared it for Israel. All Joshua had to do was help the nation claim it.

Likewise, the battle for our spiritual inheritance has already been fought and won by Jesus Christ. The question we must ask ourselves is, have we claimed it? The Bible tells us that, "God so loved the world that He gave His only begotten Son, that whosoever believes on Him shall not perish but have ever lasting life" (Johne 3:16). It's that easy, believe on His name and you become a child of God, and as such hire to His heavenly kingdom. 

The Truth: “For whatever is born of God overcomes the world. And this is the victory that has overcome the world—our faith.” (1 John 5:4)

Psalm 116 "A Life Rescued"

 “What shall I render to the LORD for all His benefits toward me?” (v. 12)

This “halal, or praise psalm was written by one who was celebrating the deliverance of a severe physical affliction. Many Jewish commentators attribute it to Hezekiah, who was told to get his house in order because he was about to die (2 Kings 20:1). But, after much prayer the LORD healed him and gave him 15 more years on earth (2 Kings 20:5-6). Upon reflection of all that God had done for him in his lifetime, Hezekiah asks the question here in our text, “What shall I render to the LORD for all his benefits toward me?"  

What a legitimate question. We could all ask the same thing. What can we give to the LORD?, the creator of the universe who owns the cattle on a thousand hills, for all He has done for us. In the material sense there is nothing that God really needs. For "the earth is the LORD’s and all that is within it.” And anything we give to Him in that sense, is already His. So what can we give Him?

When my children were growing up they would bring me pictures they had drawn in sunday school, crafts they had made for “fathers day,” bookmarks they had made with their pictures on them, cards expressing their love. To this day I still have many of those tokens of their love and affection that I can look at and enjoy at any time. Priceless! Now as they are grown and have great responsibilities of their own, a quick text or phone call, an unexpected visit, coffee, an occasional outing, all speak to me of their love, their desire to stay in touch, that I am on their mind and in their hearts. These expressions of love, no matter how simple, still mean the most and are priceless.

What then can we give to God for all His benefits toward us, that He might consider us priceless? Our time, our hearts, and our love. Our time, by staying connected to our heavenly Father, in His Word, in prayer, in praise and thanksgiving for delivering us from sin and death. Our hearts and love, by recognizing all He has done for us through His love and grace, and by giving Him the glory and honor due His name.

And, in so doing, we will as the psalmist wrote, “offer to God the sacrifice of thanksgiving” - our love, priceless to Him, for His deliverance in and of our lives.

The Truth: “But God demonstrates his own love for us in this: that while we were still sinners, Christ died for us.” (Romans 5:8)

Joshua 11 "Battle Against The Northern Kings"

“So they went out, they and all their armies with them, as many people as the sand that is on the seashore in multitude, with very many horses and chariots. And when all these kings had met together, they came and camped together at the waters of Merom to fight against Israel.” (vv.4-5)

After Jabin king of Hazor heard of Israel’s total conquest of the southern kings, the northern kings came together to defeat Israel. The huge army assembled together reflects an attitude that they believe they must stop Israel now or never. All this was prompted by what the northern kings heard regarding Israel’s success and victory. Walking in victory means that we become targets – when we are awakened, so is the devil.

Israel was about to face challenges they had never faced before. First, the size of the enemy army: as many people as the sand that is on the seashore in multitude. Second, the technological superiority of the Canaanites: with very many horses and chariots (vv.4-5). Here a massive army gathered in the valley of Megiddo to come against Joshua. Because this attack was new, and more severe than previous challenges, Joshua needed a fresh confirmation of God’s promise for his life. And the LORD was faithful to bring it, "Tomorrow about this time I will deliver all of them slain before Israel" (v.6). 

The historian Josephus tells us this coalition numbered 300,000 infantrymen, 10,000 cavalrymen, and 20,00 chariots - being like tanks in those days, a formidable arm to say the least. Israel again is outnumbered and seemingly no match for its enemy. Sound familiar? This event pictures the prophecies of Revelation, when a massive army will one day come against Jesus Christ and His reign here on earth in the “Battle of Armageddon” (Rev.16:16). And, like the five kings of the north (with their overwhelming numbers) who came against Joshua and were utterly destroyed (v.18), so too shall this future army who comes against Jesus be totally destroyed (Rev.19:19-21).

We too can have victory against overwhelming odds in our lives as well. Remember, He who is in us is greater that he who is in this world. God Bless you all.

The Truth: “But thanks be to God, who gives us the victory through our Lord Jesus Christ.” (1 Corinthians 15:57)

Joshua 10 "Do Not Fear Them"

 And the Lord said to Joshua, “Do not fear them, for I have delivered them into your hand; not a man of them shall stand before you.” (v.8)

Do not fear them: This was a command, not a suggestion. And, the command was joined to a promise, "I have delivered them into your hand; not a man of them shall stand before you." 

Fear takes away our ability to fight God’s battles. Even in the face of strong enemies, Joshua was commanded to not fear. For Joshua, fear was unbelief – being unwilling to believe what God promised. Though Joshua had reason to fear because Israel faced a confederation of five kings, God commanded him to not fear his enemies.

The most dangerous kind of soldier is one who does not fear death - one who believes he is invincible, and is fighting for the greater good. In our text, the LORD assures Joshua that He has already delivered the enemy into his hands and that not a man will stand before him. All Joshua needs to do is believe and take action, for the battle has already been won.

So it is with us when stepping into any area God has called us on His behalf. Being human we tend to say to ourselves, “I can’t do this or I’m not the right person for the job.” When in reality, we are afraid, afraid of failure. The truth is, where God guides, God provides and He will give us the boldness to believe and take the necessary action.

If we are in His perfect will, like Joshua, nothing can stand against us.

The Truth: “Fear not, for I am with you; be not dismayed, for I am your God. I will strengthen you, Yes, I will help you, I will uphold you with My righteous right hand.” (Isaiah 41:10) 

Joshua 9 "The Gibeonite Deception"

Joshua Makes Them Slaves To The LORD

Then Joshua called for the Gibeonites, and he spoke to them, saying, “Why have you deceived us, saying, ‘We are very far from you,’ when you dwell near us? Now therefore, you are cursed, and none of you shall be freed from being slaves; woodcutters and water carriers for the house of my God.” So they answered Joshua and said, “Because your servants were clearly told that the LORD your God commanded His servant Moses to give you all the land, and to destroy all the inhabitants of the land from before you; therefore we were very much afraid for our lives because of you, and have done this thing. And now, here we are, in your hands; do with us as it seems good and right to do to us.” So he did to them, and delivered them out of the hand of the children of Israel, so that they did not kill them. And that day Joshua made them woodcutters and water carriers for the congregation and for the altar of the LORD, in the place which He would choose, even to this day. (vv.22-27)

Joshua could not kill the Gibeonites (because he and the leaders of Israel had accepted the deception of the Gibeonites, and made a covenant with them to let them live;), but he could control them by making them perpetual workmen for the tabernacle service. They would serve in menial ways such as cutting wood for the sacrificial fires of the tabernacle and carrying water used in its service. 

What is interesting here is that there seems to be no complaint from the Gibeonites. They simply say, “here we are, in your hands; do with us as it seems good and right to do to us.” Essentially, they were happy with the prospect of being incorporated into Israel, and being made servants of the LORD, even if it was in menial service. In this, the Gibeonites express the same heart David did in Psalm 84:10: For a day in Your courts is better than a thousand. I would rather be a doorkeeper in the house of my God than dwell in the tents of wickedness. 

It is essential to see that they did this out of a love for the God of Israel, not out of weakness. Indeed, it was said of Gibeon that all its men were mighty (Joshua 10:2). The Gibeonites were not thrilled so much at being woodcutters and water carriers, but in knowing they could be those things for the LORD – and in knowing where they would be if they were not serving the LORD. Interesting. Do we have the same heart? Can we rejoice in any kind of service, if we see we are in the presence of the LORD as we do it?

Later, Gibeon becomes a priestly city; the ark of the covenant stayed at Gibeon often in the days of David and Solomon (1 Chronicles 16:39-40 and 21:29). At least one of David’s mighty men was a Gibeonite (1 Chronicles 12:4). God appeared and spoke to Solomon at Gibeon (1 Kings 3:4-5). The Gibeonites were among those who rebuilt the walls of Jerusalem with Nehemiah (Nehemiah 3:7 and 7:25). And finally prophets such as Hananiah the son of Azur came from Gibeon (Jeremiah 28:1).

The Truth: These are examples of the great things God can do with people who are sinners but come to Him in humility and love.

Joshua 8 “Israel Defeats Ai”

“And the LORD said to Joshua, Fear not, neither be you dismayed: take all the people of war with you, and arise, go up to Ai: see, I have given into your hand the king of Ai, and his people, and his city, and his land: And you shall do to Ai and her king as you did to Jericho and her king: only the spoil thereof, and the cattle thereof, shall you take for a prey to yourselves: lay you an ambush for the city behind it.” (v.1-2)

“History, despite its wrenching pain, cannot be unlived, but if faced with courage, need not be lived again.” (Maya Angelon) These words seem to fit perfectly in the wake of Israel’s tragic defeat and judgment by Ai back in chapter 7, as they get ready to face them again here in chapter 8. 

It would have been easy for Joshua to be discouraged or afraid after the setback at Ai and the judgment of Achan, but God doesn't afford Joshua that opportunity. Instead, He directs him boldly to prepare for the next battle and in so doing, He reinforces the truth that He is the supreme leader of His people. 

Joshua’s leadership was effective the second time against Ai because he obeyed God. If you hold any kind of position of leadership or influence—remember this lesson. God has authority over all, and any success we enjoy is to God's glory. 

The Truth: “Not unto us, O Lord, not unto us, But to Your name give glory, Because of Your mercy, Because of Your truth.” (Psalm 115:1)

Joshua 7 "Defeat At Ai"

 The Sin of Achan

“But the children of Israel committed a trespass in the accursed thing: for Achan, the son of Carmi, the son of Zabdi, the son of Zerah, of the tribe of Judah, took of the accursed thing: and the anger of the LORD was kindled against the children of Israel.” (v.1)

Joshua commanded the nation in Joshua 6:18 that they should not take of any of the accursed things, those things that were associated with the demonic and debasing worship and practices of the Canaanites. The wars fought by Israel in Canaan were not to be plundering wars of personal gain; they were an unusual, sacred instrument in God’s hand, used for judgment against a society ripe for judgment. Israel could not be defeated by the Canaanites, but they could defeat themselves by alienating themselves from God’s plan and power. The sin of Achan was not only disobedience, but that he valued silver and gold more than God. As the consequences of sin never stop with just us, many died as a result of his greed and lust for riches (v.5). 

Then Joshua, and all Israel with him, took Achan the son of Zerah, the silver, the garment, the wedge of gold, his sons, his daughters, his oxen, his donkeys, his sheep, his tent, and all that he had, and they brought them to the Valley of Achor.  And Joshua said, “Why have you troubled us? The LORD will trouble you this day.” So all Israel stoned him with stones; and they burned them (the stolen articles) with fire after they had stoned them with stones. Then they raised over him a great heap of stones, still there to this day. So the LORD turned from the fierceness of His anger. Therefore the name of that place has been called the Valley of Achor to this day.Like a pebble dropped into a pool of water, the ripple effect of our sin goes out and affects those around us as well (vv.22-26).

Achan’s sons and daughters had specific knowledge of the sin because it is unlikely that he could bury so much under their tent without their knowledge. At the same time, they were not necessarily stoned with Achan. Instead of being killed with their father, Achan’s children were probably brought forward to witness the judgment against their father. Notice the use of the singular in Joshua 7:25 and 7:26 (you…. you…. him…. him), in reference to a person being stoned. The use of the plural in Joshua 7:24-25 (them…. them…them) probably has reference to Achan’s possessions, not his children. Like a pebble dropped into a pool of water, the ripple effect of our sin goes out and affects those around us as well. Even though Achan's family was not killed, they suffered. A sobering thought for all of us.

However, thanks to the sacrificial death of Jesus on the cross, we no longer live under the condemnation of law but under grace. Thus, through repentance, we can be washed by His blood and do not pay with our own. This does not stop the ripple effect of sin but does cleanse us from it.  

The Truth: “No one can serve two masters; for either he will hate the one and love the other, or else he will be loyal to the one and despise the other. You cannot serve God and mammon.” (Matthew 6:24)

Joshua 6 "Joshua Obeys God's Plan"

Now the gates of Jericho were securely barred because of the Israelites. No one went out and no one came in. Then the Lord said to Joshua, “See, I have delivered Jericho into your hands, along with its king and its fighting men. March around the city once with all the armed men. Do this for six days. Have seven priests carry trumpets of rams’ horns in front of the ark. On the seventh day, march around the city seven times, with the priests blowing the trumpets. When you hear them sound a long blast on the trumpets, have the whole army give a loud shout; then the wall of the city will collapse and the army will go up, everyone straight in.” (vv.1-6)

Jericho itself was on full alert; from a human perspective, this would be a hard, if not impossible, battle. Yet from God’s perspective, the battle was already over, because He can say to Joshua I have (in the past tense) given Jericho into your hand. The method of warfare given to Joshua by God was one that made absolutely no sense according to military intelligence. It required total dependence on God. It required great faith from Joshua because he had to explain and lead the nation in this plan. And, it required great faith from the elders and the nation because they had to follow Joshua in this plan. Obviously, this was something that God could have done without Israel’s help at all, but He wanted them to be a part of His work – as He wants us to be a part of His work today.

Joshua does not hesitate to do what the LORD has told him to do. And it came to pass on the seventh day that they rose early, about the dawning of the day, and marched around the city seven times in the same manner as the other six days. And the seventh time it happened, when the priests blew the trumpets, that Joshua said to the people: “Shout, for the LORD has given you the city," that the wall fell down flat. Then the people went up into the city, every man straight before him, and they took the city. And they utterly destroyed all that was in the city, both man and woman, young and old, ox and sheep and donkey, with the edge of the sword (vv.20-21). 

Today, we should apply the same pattern when facing obstacles in our lives. Listen for that still small voice in His word, obey His instruction, trust He will bring us victory (as He did here with Joshua), and have the patience to wait on God as He brings His perfect will to completion in our lives. 

The Truth: “Wait on the LORD; Be of good courage, and He shall strengthen your heart; Wait, I say, on the LORD.” (Psalm 27:14)

Joshua 5 “What does my LORD say to His servant?”

And it came to pass, when Joshua was by Jericho, that he lifted his eyes and looked, and behold, a Man stood opposite him with His sword drawn in His hand. And Joshua went to Him and said to Him, “Are You for us or for our adversaries?” So He said, “No, but as Commander of the army of the LORD I have now come.” And Joshua fell on his face to the earth and worshiped, and said to Him, “What does my Lord say to His servant?” Then the Commander of the LORD’s army said to Joshua, “Take your sandal off your foot, for the place where you stand is holy.” And Joshua did so. (vv.13-15)

Here in chapter 5 Joshua has an encounter with what he thought to be just a man. This person stood opposite him, sword drawn in His hand causing Joshua to question him, “Are you for us or for our adversaries?” The answer came back, “No, but as Commander of the army of the LORD I have now come” (v.14a). In a sense, the Man refuses to answer Joshua’s question because it is not the right question, and it is not the most important question to be asked at the time. The question really wasn’t if the LORD was on Joshua’s side. The proper question was if Joshua was on the LORD’s side.

This was God Himself pulling rank on Joshua, who himself was a great military leader – but he was not the Commander in Chief. Yikes! He had to be thinking, what does that mean for me at this very moment. Joshua’s immediate reaction was exactly like those who encountered God or an Angelic representative before him (Abraham, Jacob, Moses), he fell on his face in awe and worshiped Him.

This is exactly where we need to be in our hearts when we approach God, prostrate, worshipful, paying honor due His name. Like Joshua and Moses before him, we need to remove our junk, “Take off your sandals, for the place where you stand is holy” (v.15), when we approach God and listen for His direction in our lives in – where to go, what to say, what to do.

The Truth: “The steps of a good man are ordered by the LORD, and He delights in his way. Though he may fall, he shall not be utterly cast down; for the LORD upholds him with His right hand.” (Psalm 37:23-24)

Joshua 4 "Memorial Stones"

And it came to pass, when all the people had completely crossed over the Jordan, that the LORD spoke to Joshua, saying: “Take for yourselves twelve men from the people, one man from every tribe, and command them, saying, ‘Take for yourselves twelve stones from here, out of the midst of the Jordan, from the place where the priests’ feet stood firm. You shall carry them over with you and leave them in the lodging place where you lodge tonight.’” (vv.1-3)

When God’s people crossed the Jordan River into the Promised Land, He told their leader, Joshua, to choose 12 men, have each one take a stone from the middle of the river, and carry it to their campsite that night, that this may be a sign among you when your children ask in time to come, saying, ‘What do these stones mean to you?’ Then you shall answer them that the waters of the Jordan were cut off before the ark of the covenant of the LORD; when it crossed over the Jordan, the waters of the Jordan were cut off. And these stones shall be for a memorial to the children of Israel forever” (vv.1-7).

We often fail in our trust in God because we forget the great things He has done, and often the faith of our children is weak because they have never been told how great God is and how real His working is in our lives. As followers of Christ, it’s good for us to have tangible evidence of God’s help in the past. Those mementos remind us that His faithfulness continues today, and we can follow Him confidently into the future. 

Our “stones” may also help others know that God’s hand is mighty, as they encourage us to fear the Lord our God forever (Josh. 4:24). 


The Truth: “I will sing of the mercies of the Lord forever; with my mouth will I make known Your faithfulness to all generations.” (Psalm 89:1)

Joshua 3 "God Exalts Joshua As Leader"

Now the Lord said to Joshua, “This day I will begin to exalt you in the sight of all Israel, that they may know that just as I have been with Moses, I will be with you.” (v.7)

God told Joshua that He was about to exalt him, not so the Israelites would know of Joshua's greatness, but rather that they would know the Lord was with him. Joshua was now leading people who were not alive to see the parting of the Red Sea. Most of them didn't know any life other than the wandering wilderness. They had not witnessed first-hand some of God's miraculous provision. So God was about to give them a sign that would remove any and all doubt of Joshua’s leadership.

As all of Israel stood in formation over half a mile away from the “ark of the covenant," the priests carried it to the overflowing Jordan River. Their faith was about to be tested in a task that required them to put their trust in God and the words He spoke through His servant Joshua, “When the soles of the feet of the priests who carry the ark of the Lord, the Lord of all the earth, rest in the waters of the Jordan, the waters of the Jordan will be cut off, and the waters which are flowing down from above will stand in one heap.” (v.13) Wow, instant credibility or not. 

It's a lot easier to be a leader, when the people you're leading trust you. Most leaders have to earn that trust over time, but God gave Joshua a huge endorsement here. For as the priests feet entered the Jordan, “the water rose up in one heap and the people crossed over opposite Jericho on dry ground.” (v.16) This miracle obviously connects with the miracle the nation experienced some 40 years earlier: the passing through the Red Sea. God brought the previous generation out of Egypt’s bondage with that miracle, and He now brings the current generation into the Promised Land with a similar miracle.

The application here for us is, fear fads when we trust God, and He will never ask you to go where He does not lead. Sometimes He'll use you to show His glory, other times He'll just remind you of His presence. No matter the situation, He is faithful to help you fulfill the tasks He gives you to complete.

The Truth: "I will instruct you and teach you in the way you should go; I will guide you with My eye" (Psalm 32:8)

Joshua 2 "Rahab's Faith"

“For we have heard how the Lord dried up the water of the Red Sea for you when you came out of Egypt, and what you did to the two kings of the Amorites who were on the other side of the Jordan, Sihon and Og, whom you utterly destroyed. And as soon as we heard these things, our hearts melted; neither did there remain any more courage in anyone because of you, for the Lord your God, He is God in heaven above and on earth beneath.” (v.10-11)

Which is harder for God to do, conquer a city with thick, thirty-foot-high walls, or conquer the heart of one person? The answer, of course, is that neither but in the ancient city of Jericho, He did both.

Jericho stood in the Israelites’ path as they advanced into Canaan, and the people of Jericho were under God’s judgment for their gross immorality. He brought the walls down by His sovereign power without an arrow being fired. But, because God is also gracious, He opened the heart of a women there who seemed to be the least likely candidate for salvation.

Rahab, a harlot in Jericho, had heard about the approaching Hebrews and their great God who parted seas and flattened enemies on their behalf (v.10). Like the rest of her neighbors, Rahab feared this God. But hers was a different kind of fear (awe) – producing a belief in the God of Israel (2:11).

James 2:25 says Rahab’s faith was genuine because she acted on it by receiving and hiding the Israelite spies. Rahab’s faith was rewarded by the salvation of her entire family. She came to live in Israel, and even became part of Jesus’ lineage by marrying a man named Salmon and becoming the father of Boaz, David’s great-grandfather (Ruth 4:21; Matthew 1:5)

Because of her faith and God’s blessing on her, Rahab came to be highly regarded both by Jews and by Christians despite her former life as a prostitute.

The Truth: “Therefore if anyone is in Christ, he is a new creature; the old things passed away; behold, all things have become new.” (2 Corinthians 5:17)

Joshua 1 "God's Commission To Joshua"

“This book of the law shall not depart out of your mouth; but you shall meditate therein day and night, that you may observe to do according to all that is written therein: for then you shall make your way prosperous, and then you shall have good success.” (v.8)

After the death of Moses, the LORD spoke to Joshua saying, "Arise, go over this Jordan, you and all this people, to the land which I am giving to them; the children of Israel. Every place that the sole of your foot will tread upon I have given you, as I said to Moses. No man shall be able to stand before you all the days of your life; as I was with Moses, so I will be with you. I will not leave you nor forsake you" (vv.2-5). 

After God's commission of and promise to Joshua (vv.2-5), came the conditions of the promise of victory, "Only be strong and very courageous, that you may observe to do according to all the law which Moses My servant commanded you; do not turn from it to the right hand or to the left, that you may prosper wherever you go. This Book of the Law shall not depart from your mouth, but you shall meditate in it day and night, that you may observe to do according to all that is written in it. For then you will make your way prosperous, and then you will have good success" (vv.6-9).

What an incredible task for Joshua here. And yet, not once does he question God, he just obeys. He's told to study the "Book of Instruction" continuously, meditate on it day and night so that he knows it and can live by it, and he does just that. Without following God’s instructions, Joshua would have failed at leading the Israelites into the Promised Land. 

God’s “recipe for success” given to Joshua here can work for us too, but His idea of success has little to do with money or popularity, as the world defines success. Just as God called Joshua to walk in His ways, He wants us to “walk circumspectly, not as fools” in His Word as well (Eph. 5:15). And we can take comfort in that no matter how difficult that walk seems to be, just as God was with Joshua so too shall He be with us, never leaving us nor forsaking us. Then as we take courage in the Lord, feast on His Word, and obey Him, we have our recipe for godly success that’s better than anything we could cook up on our own.

Armor up!

The Truth: “Blessed is the man who walks not in the counsel of the ungodly, nor stands in the path of sinners, nor sits in the seat of the scornful; But his delight is in the law of the Lord, And in His law he meditates day and night. He shall be like a tree planted by the rivers of water, that brings forth its fruit in its season, whose leaf also shall not wither; And whatever he does shall prosper.” (Psalm 1:1-4)

Acts 28 "Paul Spends Two Years In Rome"

"Paul dwelt two whole years in his own rented house, and received all who came to him, preaching the kingdom of God and teaching the things which concern the Lord Jesus Christ with all confidence, no one forbidding him.” (v.30-31)

Paul spent more than two years at Caesarea waiting for his case to be resolved (Acts 24:27). Now he spent another two years in his own rented house waiting for his case to be heard before Caesar. He probably continued his work as a tentmaker (leatherworker) to supply the rent for his house (as in Acts 18:1-2 and 20:33-35). Paul was always a hard-working man. 

We also read that, "He received all who came to him." One example of someone who he received in Rome was a convert of Paul’s, a runaway slave named Onesimus (Philemon 1:10), who Paul told to go back to his master Philemon. Though Paul could not travel, he could teach and preach to all who came to him – and this he did (Preaching the kingdom of God and teaching the things which concern the Lord Jesus Christ with all confidence). He also wrote many letters; we have these two years of Roman custody to thank for the letters to the Ephesians, the Philippians, and the Colossians. These two years were obviously not wasted, and God didn’t waste Paul’s time in Rome. God never wastes our time, though we may waste it by not sensing His purpose for our lives at the moment.

As Paul came to Rome, the sea, the soldiers, and the snake all threatened his life. But God delivered him from them all. Through Paul, God shows that God’s man, fulfilling God’s will, cannot be stopped – though all kinds of difficulty may come in the way. Even the disbelief of some of the Jews – or anyone else’s rejection of Jesus – will not hinder the gospel. The gospel will go forth and find those who will believe.

Every story has an ending. But the great stories end with a new beginning. In the final chapter of C.S. Lewis’ Narnia series, the characters are invited “further up, further in” as the land of Narnia is restored. Lewis writes;

“The things that began to happen after that were so great and beautiful that I cannot write them. And for us this, the end of all the stories, and we can most truly say that they all lived happily ever after. But for them it was only the beginning of the real story. All their life in this world and all their adventures in Narnia had only been the cover and the title page: now at last they were beginning Chapter One of the Great Story which no one on earth has read: which goes on forever: in which every chapter is better than the one before.” (C.S. Lewis, The Last Battle)

Just as one adventure leads to another in the Narnia series, so Paul’s story is not over. Even though the book itself comes to an abrupt end, another story is about to begin. The Epistles are loaded with more chronicles, if you will, on the life and ministry of this faithful servant of God.

The Truth: His lord said to him, ‘Well done, good and faithful servant; you were faithful over a few things, I will make you ruler over many things. Enter into the joy of your lord.’ (Matthew 25:21)

Acts 27 "Peace In The Storm"

“For this very night an angel of the God to whom I belong and whom I serve stood before me, Saying, ‘Do not be afraid, Paul; you must stand before Caesar; and behold, God has granted you all those who are sailing with you.’ Therefore take heart, men, for I believe God that it will be just as it was told me. However, we must run aground on a certain island.”(v.23-26)

Here in our text, God sent an angelic messenger to Paul to bring good, encouraging news when all else seemed hopeless. This wasn’t a direct appearance of Jesus (as in Jerusalem, Acts 23:11), but of an angel who said to Paul, "Do not be afraid. Indeed God has granted you all those who sail with you." 

There was a reason Paul needed to hear this. He was afraid in the storm, for both himself and those with him. Paul knew he would make it to Rome because God promised it. Yet in the storm (here, a literal storm) it was easy to doubt and Paul needed the assurance from God for the safety of everyone on the ship.

Paul then turns to all on board this sinking ship and says, "take heart, men. I believe God that it will be just as it was told me." He couldn’t keep this hope to himself. He had to pass it on to both the believers on board the ship and to those who had not yet believed. Paul’s confident word to the troubled sailors on a storm-tossed ship express the essence of what it means to put our faith in God and His Word. God said it to Paul (through an angel) and Paul said to everyone on board, “I believe God.”

Notice what Paul said here, “I believe God.” He didn’t say, “I believe in God.” Every demon in hell agrees with the existence of God. Paul declared his total confidence in God’s knowledge of his situation and His promise in his situation. Paul believed God when there was nothing else to believe. He couldn’t believe the sailors, the ship, the sails, the wind, the centurion, human ingenuity or anything else – only God. Paul’s unshakable confidence in God made him a leader among men, even though he was a prisoner of Rome.

Finally Paul says, "However, we must run aground on a certain island." This was mixed news, and in these circumstances to run aground might be fairly called to shipwreck. Paul essentially said, “We’re all going to shipwreck on an unknown island, but everyone will be alright.” A certain island means that God did not tell Paul everything about what was going to happen. Paul had to trust that God knew which island they would run aground on, even if Paul didn’t know.


When the storms of life hit, we like Paul must place our trust in the Lord and cling firmly to the sure promises of His Word. Our confidence in God should be so steadfast that no matter how severe the trial, like Job we can affirm, "Though He slay me, yet will I trust Him" (Job 13:15). 

The Truth: “To those who trust Him, He gives His "perfect peace" (Isaiah 26:3)

Acts 26 “Almost Persuaded”

“Then King Agrippa said to Paul, you almost persuade me to become a Christian” (v.28)

In the previous chapter we saw that the Jews asked Festus for Paul to be returned to Jerusalem, so they might try him under Jewish Law. But Paul, being warned of a plot to kill him (while on the road to Jerusalem), requested of Festus to be judged by Caesar (25:11)

Now in chapter 26 Paul is still being held by Festus awaiting his audience before Caesar. Festus, wishing to have something to report to Caesar of Paul’s case, explained it to king Agrippa, who had come to Caesarea to visit saying; “When the accusers stood up, they brought no accusation against him of such things as I supposed, but had some questions against him about their own religion and about one, Jesus, who had died, whom Paul affirmed to be alive.”

Upon hearing this king Agrippa agreed to here Paul - who uses the opportunity not only to defend his position but to witness to all present testifying, “that Christ would be the first to rise from the dead” (v.23). King Agrippa upon hearing his testimony replied, “Paul, you almost persuade me to become a Christian” (v.28). However, king Agrippa then stood up and ended the proceedings (v.30).

By standing up, King Agrippa II was declaring that his part of the proceedings was over.  Paul would not testify any further on that particular day, before this minor king. Sadly though, by ending the proceedings, he was refusing to hear any more about the Lord. 

Jesus Christ died for kings, just like he did for you and me. He loves us no matter what our station in life is. Agrippa, was "almost" persuaded to receive the Lord but, “Almost” isn't enough. 

The Truth: “If you confess with your mouth the Lord Jesus and believe in your heart that God has raised Him from the dead, you will be saved.” (Romans 10:9)

Acts 25 "The Passion Of Paul"

“I am now standing before Caesar’s court, where I ought to be tried. I have not done any wrong to the Jews, as you yourself know very well. If however, I am guilty of doing anything deserving death, I do not refuse to die. But if the charges brought against me by these Jews are not true, no one has the right to hand me over to them. I appeal to Caesar!” (v.10-11)

Acts 24 ended with Paul still in prison and a transition of the governorship from Antonius Felix to that of Porcius Festus. Felix was undoubtedly a bad man, but history tells us Festus was a basically good man. He governed well, despite all the problems left him by Felix. We can now see that Paul’s generous imprisonment in Caesarea was actually a providential provision of protective custody against the murderous intentions of the religious leaders. It was also a season of rest and replenishment after his years of hard missionary service, preparing him for the challenges in the years ahead.

Now here in chapter 25 we see that the case of Paul was still important to his accusers the religious leaders. They hoped to make Paul appear before them again in Jerusalem, knowing that Paul would be acquitted in any fair trial. Therefore, they requested Festus to summon Paul to Jerusalem. Festus answered that Paul should be kept at Caesarea: We don’t know if Festus knew the intentions of the Jewish leaders or not. Either way, he refused to grant their request for a change of venue, and this was another way that God protected Paul. Festus was willing to put Paul on trial again, to resolve the matter. Yet he insisted that it would happen in Caesarea, not in Jerusalem.

Though he was a good man, Festus also understood that it was important for him to have and keep a good relationship with the Jewish people of his province. Festus found it difficult to decide the case. Paul’s standing as a Roman citizen apparently prevented Festus from commanding the trial to be moved to Jerusalem, so he asked Paul, "Are you willing to go up to Jerusalem and there be judged before me concerning these things?" So Paul said, “I stand at Caesar’s judgment seat, where I ought to be judged…I appeal to Caesar.”

Passion is a powerful thing. When you are passionate about something, you have no issue being bold to support it. Paul was passionate about spreading the Gospel, and his boldness is evident here where he is on trial and could be sentenced to death, but because he believes in his actions and his purpose, he speaks boldly.

Paul’s passion for spreading Jesus’ message made him willing to face anything — even death. This kind of passion for the Gospel can change our communities (and eventually the world), one soul at a time. All we need to do is, exercise it.

The Truth: “And for me, that utterance may be given to me, that I may open my mouth boldly to make known the mystery of the gospel, for which I am an ambassador in chains; that in it I may speak boldly, as I ought to speak.” (Ephesians 6:19-20)

Acts 24 "We Shall Speak Again"

Now as he reasoned about righteousness, self-control, and the judgment to come, Felix was afraid and answered, “Go away for now; when I have a convenient time I will call for you.” (v.25)

Paul here in chapter 24, was taken before the Roman procurator Felix. False accusations were flowing against him from envious, bitter Jewish leaders that resented Christianity. It was during this time that the Roman judge gave an audience to Paul's accusers.

Felix, however, was not ignorant of who Christians were (v.24), and what they were teaching. Perhaps, he had heard around the city about Christ, or how Christianity had been sweeping the countryside. He had his opinions about Christianity, but he was wise enough not to hear both sides.

Paul, instead of cowering under the authority of the man that was managing the affairs for the Romans, took the opportunity to talk to the ruler about spiritual things. The preacher spoke of living a righteous life, not indulging in sin, and about the judgments God would bring.

Even though Paul’s judge, as history tells us, was known for his cruelty, murders, and even considered himself licensed to commit any crime he desired, Paul did not waiver or hold back on any of the truths from the Word of God. Felix could have easily given the word, and Paul’s life would have been snuffed out; but Paul boldly preached on.

Paul’s message did affect Felix. Verse 25 records that the man trembled at what he had heard. His fear did not guide him to repentance, however. He dismissed Paul, and promised that they might speak again. He had the opportunity to be saved, but he put it off. Felix missed a time he could have been saved.

Many are so many like Felix, they hear the convicting message from the Word of God, it cuts deeply into their heart, conviction of past sins and it floods their memories. They often have the opportunity right there and then to confess Jesus as their Savior and to get their sins forgiven, but they put it off. “Tomorrow,” “Later," “Some other time.”

For some, that “other time” never comes. All too often they miss the last opportunity they had for salvation, and die lost, without Christ, and spend their eternity in hell. They often get so close to salvation, but miss an eternity with Jesus.

Never say “No,” to God’s provoking of your heart about anything, especially salvation. You may never have tomorrow!

The Truth: "Behold, now is the accepted time; behold now is the day of salvation." (2 Corinthians 6:2) 

Acts 23 "Be Of Good Cheer"

“But on the night immediately following, the Lord stood at his side and said, ‘Take courage; for as you have solemnly witnessed to My cause at Jerusalem, so you must witness at Rome also.’” (v.11)

Back in chapter 22 Paul was giving a sermon to a large crowd in Jerusalem. He tells of his Jewish upbringing and background (v.3). He explained how he  persecuted Christians (v.4-5). Then he begins to explain the supernatural experience he had on his way to Damascus (vv.6-11), and his response to that experience (vv.12-15). 

However, when Paul told the crowd that Jesus had spoken to him while in prayerful trance to "leave Jerusalem for they will not receive your testimony concerning Me" (v.18), and "Depart, for I will send you far from here to the Gentiles" (v.21), the crowd raised their voices and said, “Away with such a fellow from the earth, for he is not fit to live!” Then, as they cried out and tore off their clothes and threw dust into the air and began rioting (vv.22-23).

Paul was then placed in a Roman jail (for his own protection from the crowd), and was once again a prisoner in chains where we see a hint that he felt like hope was fading. He would have been remembering those who had warned him "not to go up to Jerusalem" (Acts 21:12). He had gone, but his decision now seemed less sure, because going had led to confinement and isolation, which left little opportunity for him to speak of His Lord.

It was at this low point in his life that the Lord appeared and told him, “Be of good cheer; you must also witness at Rome.” Loose translation, Paul would not "rot" in that place but instead, would eventually be sent to the capitol of the Roman Empire and witness to Cesar.

This reminds us that the LORD has a plan for ALL his children who are in the difficult circumstances in this life. No matter WHAT happens “be of good cheer.” the Lord LOVES you and will never leave you, nor forsake you! And, He has a plan for your life.

The Truth: “The Lord of hosts is with us; The God of Jacob is our refuge.” (Psalm 46:7)

Acts 22 "You Will Be His Witness"

“You will be His witness to all people of what you have seen and heard.” (v.15)

Here in chapter 22 we get the story of Paul’s conversion. While not all conversions are as dramatic as his (a great light from heaven shone around him, he heard a voice speaking to him, he had a conversation with Jesus, and he was given a directive from Jesus saying, ‘Arise and go into Damascus, and there you will be told all things which are appointed for you to do' (vv.6-11), but all have the same effect, a changed life and a desire to tell others about it.

Every Christian has a story to tell. All of us have been rescued from a life of sin and disobedience, set free from the past to live a new life in Him. As such, we are not called to be a well-educated theologians but simply to be His witnesses - to tell others the story of our transformation and thus share the power of the gospel.

The Truth: “I bring you good tidings of great joy which will be to all people. For there is born to you this day in the city of David a Savior, who is Christ the Lord.” (Luke 2:10-11)

Acts 21 "Thy Will Be Done"

And as we stayed many days, a certain prophet named Agabus came down from Judea. When he had come to us, he took Paul’s belt, bound his own hands and feet, and said, “Thus says the Holy Spirit, ‘So shall the Jews at Jerusalem bind the man who owns this belt, and deliver him into the hands of the Gentiles.’” Now when we heard these things, both we and those from that place pleaded with him not to go up to Jerusalem. Then Paul answered, “What do you mean by weeping and breaking my heart? For I am ready not only to be bound, but also to die at Jerusalem for the name of the Lord Jesus.” So when he would not be persuaded, we ceased, saying, “The will of the Lord be done.” (vv.10-14)

In the spirit of Old Testament prophets, Agabus acted out his message to Paul – that certain danger awaited him at Jerusalem. The prophecy of Agabus was true, and genuinely from the Holy Spirit. But to this true word, a human application was added (they pleaded with him not to go up to Jerusalem v.21). That additional word was not of the Lord, otherwise Paul would have been disobedient to go to Jerusalem. 

Paul’s insistence on going to Jerusalem despite the dangers predicted by the Holy Spirit was not a result of rebellion, but an obedient response to the command of the Holy Spirit in his heart. He was bound in the spirit to go to Jerusalem (Acts 19:21 and 20:22). The warnings from the Holy Spirit here were intended to prepare Paul for what he was in for, not to stop him. Paul companions – including Luke – came to the understanding that God’s will would be done. They came to trust that even if Paul was probably right, and even if he was wrong, God would use it.

This reminds me of how others can unwittingly discourage us from doing the very thing that the Lord has called us to do!  Others can be blinded by their fears over what they think may happen - even if the outcome is known, as in this case (v.11), and potentially pull us away from His will. Paul's answer to his friends concern was, “I am ready not only to be bound, but even to die at Jerusalem for the name of the Lord Jesus" (v.13).

Paul’s stand here should be an encouragement for us in times when the LORD calls us to go in a direction that others don’t understand or agree with. In those times, we like Paul need the determination to move forward, even though others may not want us to. The vital test of God’s will for us is, agreement with Him, not others. 

Thy will be done.

The Truth: “For it is God who works in you both to will and to do for His good pleasure.” (Philippians 2:13)