Highlights In Today's Reading:
All the Canaanite kings mobilize their armies and unite to defeat Israel. Although the Israelites had to fight for every foot of the promised land, it was the plan that God had chosen. God makes it possible for us to fulfill His promises. Read how Joshua and the Israelites remain victorious and win every battle. The key to their victory is just as essential for us.
The communication of God with Joshua continued through the dividing of the remainder of the land of Canaan. About 25 years had passed since Israel crossed over Jordan into the promised land; all the kings had been defeated and Canaan was controlled by the Israelites. Yet, the Amorites, Jebuzites, and Hittites were still in possession of much of Canaan. Now Joshua was old and stricken in years; and the Lord said unto him . . . there remaineth yet very much land to be possessed (13:1). At this time, the nation of Israel was living for the most part in the mountains and hills. Most of the cities in the valleys had not been conquered but, by faith, Joshua divided the remaining land and claimed it according to the promise of God. By pronouncing the land division, Joshua was warning Israel not to be satisfied with past victories. All the land of promise was theirs but had to be taken by the Israelites in battle with the Canaanites.
The older generation that first entered and defeated many kingdoms within Canaan should have led the way for final conquest. Often Christians, once active in the Lord's service, become inactive and satisfied with past achievements when their years of experience could enable them to render the Church a more valuable service than ever. The experience of years of godly living needs to be taught to those who are just beginning in the Christian faith so they may avoid Satan's pitfalls. Reading God's Word will give spiritual discernment when dealing with today's problems (I Corinthians 10:11).
History and Scripture alike join in revealing the truth that whatsoever thy hand findeth to do (for the building of HIS kingdom), do it with (all) thy might (not merely what you can get by with) (Ecclesiastes 9:10).
The Lord never promised anyone an easy time in serving Him. Neither did He promise a leisurely retirement. A reminder of the vital importance of serving the Lord now and putting off personal interests is: Walk circumspectly, not as fools, but as wise, Redeeming the time, because the days are evil (Ephesians 5:15-16).
Thought for Today:
If we look at the opportunities we have through the eyes of faith we will be able like Abraham who staggered not at the promise of God through unbelief; but was strong in faith, giving glory to God (Romans 4:17,20).
Christ Portrayed:
By Moses the servant of the Lord (Joshua 12:6). Jesus was the Servant of God. Behold My Servant, whom I have chosen (Matthew 12:18).
Word Studies:
11:9 houghed =b> hamstrung, crippled; 11:13 stood still in their strength =b> were fortified on hills; 12:3 Chinneroth =b> Sea of Galilee; Salt sea =b> Dead sea; 12:4 coast =b> territorial border; 13:22 soothsayer =b> diviner, fortune-teller.
Prayer Needs:
Pray for The Arabic, English, and Spanish International Shortwave Radio Broadcasts sponsored by Walter & Gladys Essex • Staff: Ilene Wallace • Country: Grenada (97,000) southernmost of the Windward Islands • Major language: English • Religious freedom • 61% Roman Catholic; 31% Protestant • Prayer Suggestion: Thank the Lord that you have no need to fear. Trust Him one day at a time (Matthew 6:33-34).
Optional Reading: John 8
Memory Verse for the Week: I Peter 1:16
