Take Two: Josh 24, Proverbs 14

Joshua 24 is a covenant chapter. The main point of the chapter is the covenant that the people enter into with God (Josh 24:25). Covenants are agreements entered into by the active parties; they are entered into freely and are based on commitments on both parts (usually).

As Joshua begins, he reviews the history of Israel from their calling through Abraham (Josh 24:2-3), through the Exodus from Egypt (Josh 24:5-6), through the provision in the desert wanderings (Josh 24:7), and through the conquest of Canaan (Josh 24:11-13). The point of the rehearsal of history was for Israel to see what God had already committed on their part.

Placing faith in God is not a blind faith...as though we do not know how or if God will act. God has and always will act consistently with His character and His promises. If you know who God is at His core (essence), and you know what He has promised to do..then you know how God will act in any given situation....maybe not the specifics of the method...but the outcome is clear. When Joshua challenges the people to covenant with God...He first rehearses who God is and what God has done for them personally.

Then, Joshua explains the criteria for the next stage of their relationship with God (Josh 24:14-15). To continue to experience the fullness and power of a relationship with God...the people must "fear" Him, and serve Him from their heart...and in a manner consistent with His Word (truth). Nothing else is acceptable. It may not be easy at all times...but the standard is what it is. When the people committed to the challenge, Joshua gave them their next step (Josh 24:23-24). You must remove foreign gods (seek holiness) and pursue God. There is a turning from and an inclining toward...involved in this commitment. It is not enough to stop doing bad...we must do good.

Joshua's legacy was powerful. The people followed his leadership and the leadership of those that followed him after his death (Josh 24:31). This is the fruit of living a life that honors God in all respects.

Proverbs 14:12 is the takeaway today. In our own minds, we can devise some of the best possible ideas ever. Even the bad ones seem good. Ultimately though...the truly good ideas are those that come from God. He alone is the basis of Truth and the key to doing the best things is to know and do His will in everything.

Take Two: Joshua 23, Proverbs 13

Joshua 23 is a powerful chapter. While written so long ago, it speaks with clarity to important aspects of our everyday existence today. Josh 23:3 is a good reminder that God has done so much on our behalf. Not only with providing Salvation in an "eternal" sense, but in providing salvation daily. Even on my greatest days of trial, I am blessed far beyond anything I deserve.

The key to continually experiencing God's blessing is to stick close to God. In Josh 23:6-7, Joshua gives us this key. Know God's Word and do it perfectly. Live according to God's plan. Avoid influences that water down your commitment to God. Stay white hot in your commitment to God and God alone.

Invariably, there is a draw away from this type of commitment in everyone's life. Life is busy... our sins are attractive...we can "reason" our way into about any situation if we try. We must KNOW though, that to turn from absolute commitment and obedience to God...to embrace ANY of the world is to invite God's judgment against us. It is JUDGMENT because it is the removal of blessings (Josh 23:12-13). Yes, to not be under the blessing of God is to be experiencing the judgment of God...because the blessing of God is and always has been His plan for you and I.

With the same certainty that Joshua's people could look back on God's complete faithfulness to fulfill His promise to them...they can look forward to God acting consistently toward them...to bless them if the obey and the judge them if they do not (Josh 23:13). This is part of God's CHARACTER. It is an immutable aspect of who God is. It has always defined Him and will continue to do so for eternity. So...the same promises mentioned by Joshua here are echoed for us in the present day.

Proverbs 13:14 is the takeaway for me today. Wisdom is a fountain with abundant resources to protect us from snares and danger. God's Word is abundant with the counsel that saves us from all that detours and detracts from experiencing all of God's blessings. The best way to avoid "snares" and experience God's greatest blessings is to know and do the will of God as revealed in the Word of God.

Take Two: Joshua 22, Proverbs 12

Joshua 22 is an action packed chapter. In Josh 22:1-6, Joshua dispatches Reuben, Gad and half of Manasseh to return to their families on the other side (East) of the Jordan. They had fulfilled their vow and had done all that was commanded. After departing, the tribes erected an altar near the Jordan. This seemed to be a competing place of worship. This aroused concerns among the western tribes so they called together their armies and prepared to go to war to fight against the eastern tribes.

Before we say that this sounds barbaric...let's remember that the sins of Achan (while more than seven years before) had made a strong impression on the people to protect holiness in the land...or bring judgment against all of the people. So, the Western tribes sent a delegation consisting of the priest and ten tribal leaders. They approached the eastern tribes to inquire "what were you thinking?"

What appeared to be a breaking of unity and act of disobedience...really was their erection of a memorial which would serve as a safeguard for future generations. All involved wanted to insure that none of their grandchildren would suggest that the eastern tribes were not "really" people of God. The altar would be a perpetual reminder that God's people to the east were still God's people. It seems that both groups (east and west) learned the value and importance of never forgetting where they came from and how God had acted in their lives.

We would do well to erect markers in our lives. We have a copy of the 10 commandments framed in our house. It serves to remind us that we should not campaign for their display in a courthouse or a school...without first displaying them in our house. We are not seeking to impose God on others but to help people find transformation as we have. Baptism is a marker. Public commitments are markers. All of these are significant spiritual milestones and serve to remind us of who we are and how the Lord has shown grace toward us.

Proverbs 12:18 is the takeaway today. Words have weight and power. Power to heal and power to destroy. We are called to speak wisely. "speaking our mind" is sometimes like the thrust of a sword. Not everything we think needs to be said. Often, we can accomplish more in a well-thought through statement, than in ten pointed statements that pierce rather than heal.

Grace,

Take Two:Joshua 20-21, Proverbs 11

In Joshua 20-21, two major themes are undertaken. All of the land has been subdued and...for the most part...conquered and occupied by God's people. Remember...there are still a number of Canaanites, etc in the land...and we will see the effect of their presence and influence in the coming chapters.

Chapter 21 lists the 48 cities that were deeded over to the Levites...the ministers of God. God provided land and pasture for the tribe of Levi...not in a region as He did for the other tribes... but among all of the tribes from a gift by the tribes themselves. This allowed for the Levites to be among the people they served and to have their needs met. The same is true today. There is a movement among contemporary thinkers that if we all attended "house churches" led by non-professional leaders...then we could put to better use resources for the sake of missions, etc. While, at times, this is an effective strategy..it is certainly not the only or even the optimum approach to ministry. God's plan to reach the nations is not contingent upon our resources or accelerated by our super-cool insights. God's plan is, as always, perfect...and the key to successful participation in this plan is to know and do the will of God...not create new approaches based on our ingenuity.

Chapter 20 explains the reason for 6 of the cities that were given to the Levites. These cities were called "cities of refuge." In the context which the Bible was written, it was expected that a life would be required for a life. If a person was killed...a member of his clan would be honor bound to slay the killer. The tradition lives on in parts of Kentucky, Mississippi, and Alabama today :-) . In the event that the killer acted without malice, he could flee to a city of refuge and plea for mercy. In doing so, he would be granted safety until his case could be heard before the congregation. He was not absolved for the crime necessarily...but was given safety and protection until he could answer for the crime which he was accused of. His safety was assured...not by the goodwill of the people in the city of refuge...but by the command of God Himself.

Isn't it interesting that God provided a place of refuge to consider ones sins and seek justice...among His own people? This is why the church is to be a "safe" place for people to come and find help today. The church does not absolve people of sin or shield them from justice. It is a place for a person to run for refuge...and the place is provided by God.

Proverbs 11:2 is the takeaway today. The issue is not a "false humility" or a "put on" regarding how we talk or act. It is a sense of dependence. When we become proud...we stop seeking answers and help. We start relying on our own wisdom, provision, and direction. This leads to destruction. When we recognize that our best laid plans are not as good as God's we humble ourselves before Him. We seek to know His plans and counsel...because we acknowledge that He alone has the key to life abundant. This is the thrust of the proverb and is the key to walking righteously before God.

Grace,

Take Two: Joshua 18-19, Proverbs 10

Sorry for not posting yesterday. (I got busy with having my parents in town...which is good because we really enjoyed having them with us.) So, I merged chapters 18-19 together today.

Joshua 18 begins by describing the division of the remaining seven portions of land in a different way. Three men from each of the seven tribes were to go survey the land, divide it into seven parts, and then Joshua would cast lots before the Lord to determine which tribe got which part. I sort of chuckle at this...since it is perfect by design. The portions would be of equal value or size because no one knew which part would be theirs...until after it was all divided.

In biblical times, casting lots was a way to determine the will of God. It extended into the first century (at least) with the selection of Judas Iscariot's replacement as a disciple/Apostle (Acts 1:26).

[Sidenote: could you imagine making decisions based on drawing lots today in the church? Would you/ do you trust the will power and sovereignty of God to the point that you would submit yourself to the results of casting lots...affirming that if your lot was drawn...it was God that caused it and revealed it? ]

In the remainder of chapters 18 and 19, the portions of the land were divided up. Josh 19:51 is the summary verse of the distribution. The task of distributing the land was completed.

Not only did God fulfill His promise of giving the land to His people, but He did it in such a way that was agreeable with them. Nowhere in the distribution do we see a call for a recount or an accusation of voter fraud. (Maybe we should draw lots for President!)

Proverbs 10:3 is the takeaway today. Ultimately, the righteous will always be provided for because the Lord is the provision. This is not only in some mystical or spiritual sense...but has some very practical understandings as well (i.e. food, clothing, shelter, needs of life). The wicked, since their "provision" is somewhere other than the Lord...will never be satisfied. They may seem to be excelling along the way...but, in the end, nothing brings contentment...except the Lord.

Take Two: Joshua 16-17, Proverbs 8

I took both chapters 16 and 17 together. (16 was short...and 17 was related due to the Canaanites). Two more portions of land are distributed. Both contain detail about the inheritance, complete with borders. A couple of observations stuck out though.

First, Ephraim was unable to drive out the Canaanites from their land (Josh 16:10). This influence will prove to cause complications throughout their history.

Second, Zelophehad had no sons...only daughters. Still after appealing to Joseph, Eleazar and the elders, these daughters received an inheritance among the peoples (Josh 17:3,6) This is pretty significant since women were not typically afforded the same rights as men. Another example of God's grace.

Finally, the presence of the Canaanites was proving to become more troublesome. They were beginning to fortify and gain strength (Josh 17:16). As I apply this, I recognize that sin not dealt with (due to compromise, etc.) only gets stronger.

Proverbs 8:17 is the takeaway. It is referring to "wisdom" personified. Those who love wisdom are loved by wisdom...in other words, wisdom proves to serve him. Those who seek wisdom...always discover it. Wisdom is not elusive or available only to an elite few. Wisdom is simply acquired by loving, seeking, and embracing God.

Take Two: Joshua 15, Proverbs 7

In Joshua 15 we see one of the most detailed lists of cities and territory boundary descriptions in all of Scripture. This will be a dominant characteristic of the next several chapters. While the reading may seem a bit "dry" to us, it is critical to the audience of the day. The detail shows exactly how God fulfilled a promise made centuries before. While it may have seemed good to us for God to say, "I am giving the land to them...and He did," it was more significant to the original audience for them to see and hear exactly what was their part of the blessing. But the same is true for you and I.

Is it good enough for folks to know that American possess land in Western Florida/East Alabama?

Is it good enough for them to know that "Pensacolans" possessed the land north in Cantonment.

Or...is it best (even in our culture) for them to know that John and Mary Doe took possession of a parcel of land located at_____, in the city of _____, county of ______, state of ______as recorded in the book of deeds in the ______ subdivision on lot number ____ which encompasses all of the land, houses, and outbuildings for the lot...measuring ____ feet by _____ feet and they own the title deed without any encumbrance except that right of way is permitted to utility providers within the 4 foot easements on the left and right border and along the roadway. I promise you...that my mortgage provider wants a description more like this than to know that some American owned some land in Florida.

Find a good Bible map in your Bible and you will see that this land described here makes up the Southern territory...encompassing most all of the land from the northwest corner of the Dead Sea/ Satl Sea (Josh 15:5) westward to the Mediterranean (Josh 15:12) and soutward around the Mediterranean to the wilderness areas (Josh 15:4).

A couple of observations. The conquest of Caleb (Ch 14) is carried out in Josh 15:13-14. The three leaders listed there are the same ones in charge when Caleb spied out the land 45 years before (Num 13:22). Othniel, Caleb's nephew conquered Debir (Josh 15:16-17) and gets as a prize, Caleb's daughter.Yes they were cousins...and people make fun of guys from Alabama :-). Othniel later becomes a prominent leader during the period of Judges (Judg 3:9-11).

Othniel must have been an ugly dude because Caleb's daughter asked for a little bonus for herself when marrying him (Josh 15:18-19).

One other observation: Josh 15:63 tells us that the Jebusites were not utterly defeated and remained in Jerusalem with the sons of Judah. This will continue until the time of King David's conquest around 1000 BC.

A very detailed history to give testimony to the faithfulness of God in fulfilling a promise made many years before. Reminds me of 2 Peter 3:9-10.

Proverbs 7:21-22 is the takeaway today. The allure of sin is a reality for all of us. Whatever the sin...there is a constant reality of enticement that seeks to draw us away from God and toward something that appears to be to our benefit. In the end, if we give in, we pay a price... and dearly so.

Grace,

Take Two: Joshua 14, Proverbs 6

Chapter 14 is one of my favorites. Caleb was one of the 12 spies who, with Joshua alone, came back with a favorable report after spying out the land. Josh 12:9 tells us that Moses promised the land which he had surveyed to him as an inheritance. Now 45 years later (Josh 14:10), Caleb is ready to go do the work to dispossess the people and take his inheritance.

Now if you will recall, Joshua had already dispossessed and destroyed the Anakites (Josh 11:21-22), except for those who had fled. It would seem that some had returned to their old homeland and set back up. This is another indicator of why God's judgment was not only "just," but demonstrated purpose as well. Whenever we refuse to completely irradicate our lives of sin...when we allow sin to cohabitate with us...when we give allowance for sin in our lives...we should just KNOW that it will rise back up and take possession of old ground in our hearts again.

Caleb did not ask for others to accomplish the task of taking back Hebron. He pointed to the fact that even though he was 85 years old, he was a strong as he was at 40 (Josh 14:11). This is incredible to me. 85 years old...after 40 years in the desert and now many years at war...how can he say such a thing?

It would seem to me that Caleb's strength was in some ways provided by the hope of the promise made to him by Moses. It was not so much that Caleb felt like a young man...as it was that Caleb was just as reliant of God to give him what was needed at 85 as He did at 40.

What is the expiration date on God's promises to you? Can you se yourself waiting 45 years for God to fulfill a promise? Would you be eager to work and risk to bring the promise to pass...even after 45 years? This is a picture of faith, and faithfulness. Go Caleb!

Proverbs 6:27-29 is the takeaway today. The specific sin referred to is adultery, but the principle is far-reaching. Can a man commit any sin and his actions go unpunished? Every deception...every theft (of time or taxes or anything), every embraced sin...will be discovered and will be punished. One cannot escape it...any more than he could walk across coals without being burned.

Take Two: Joshua 13, Proverbs 5

The thirteenth chapter of Joshua is a detailed listing of how the land which Israel now possessed was to be apportioned. Now I did not read this and suddenly see a bright light from heaven with deep, previously hidden truths revealed. In fact, it reminded me of the genealogies a bit. However, a couple of things did stick out:

First, God was intimately aware of Israel's situation and the progress of the realization of promise. In Josh 13:1, God reminded Joshua that he was old and that there was still much to be done. I am not certain why Joshua needed to be reminded of his age...but it seemed good to the Lord. What I think is neat...is that God knows that part of what He entrusted to Joshua had not been acomplished and God still wanted it done.

In the same way, God knows exactly what He has entrusted to you and I as individuals, to our church as a Body...and to the church (universal) as a whole. He is intimately aware of the state of our progress. He is absolutely desirous that we finish the task set before us. While we may not have been given a mandate to conquer real estate and slay armies...we have been given a command to disposses the enemy (Josh 13:12) of his spiritual occupation in the hearts of men. We do this by communicating the gospel. Further, it is not enough to have partially completed the task (and reached our families, community, or nation.) The command was to finish the task until God's plan was finally realized on earth as it IS in Heaven.

Second, God knew which tribes were to possess what parts of the land. It would take many tribes to complete the task of occupying. While not a perfect analogy, I see that in some ways, this is true today. God uses many churches and many different styles/approaches to accomplish His plan. There is no "cookie-cutter" approach to bringing in the Kingdom. God has called each person and each community to do their part. This is the essence of acting "missionally" in the Kingdom.

Third, God provided for every tribe uniquely. Some received land in the hill country. Others in the desert/wilderness. Still others...received no land of their own...but were provided cities within the land of other tribes (Levites, Joshua:13:33). This may not seem equitable from our standpoint...but from God's it is exactly right. In the end though...God's standard is not only right (because He is God), but is most expedient and efficient (because He is smarter and more just than we are). We have to learn to "default" to the fact that God only operates in our "Best" interest...because our best interest is always consistent with God's perfect plan.

Proverbs 5:3-4 is the takeaway today. On the "back side" of the election, I am mindful that during the campaign many promises were made by both sides. Many people heard flattering words and lofty promises. What was needed in the campaign was fidelity (faithfulness) to core principles. To not be faithful to core principles...means we become easy prey for the words of those who are unfaithful. Honestly, I am not speaking in a partisan way. I cast my ballot based on social and moral issues that are clearly delineated in the Word of God (protection of the unborn, biblical marriage protection, etc). I did not vote based on economic policy (because I am a die-hard fiscal conservative...and I did not have any representation in the election.) Here is why I say this:

In my brief journey on this earth...I have come to embrace a philosophy of principle over expediency. This is not a position that is unique to me...I gained it from the Scripture in passages like this one. "Hold fast to the clear will of God...and do not be swayed by other alluring options....since they look good now, but in the end...they will destroy." (This is my own "applied" translation of the principle in Proverbs.)

As you consider this Proverb today...remember that God has called us to be faithful to keep His Word...and rely on Him for providing along the way. We set ourselves up for failure whenever we try to do God's business (providing for ourselves) for Him.

Grace,

Take Two: Joshua 12, Proverbs 4

Joshua 12 chronicles the list of kings (and therefore kingdoms or city-type communities) that were defeated by the Israelites in conquering the land. To keep these victories in perspective...there were no personnel carriers or helicopters to transport the troops. Everywhere they went...they walked. Also, we have covered the history of the battles in a few days and as many chapters...but Joshua's efforts to this point took place over the period of about seven years.

Josh 12:1-6 covers the victories that were obtained under Moses' leadership in the land East of the Jordan (That is usually to the right when you look at a map). This land was given by Moses to the tribes of Reuben, Gad and half the tribe of Manasseh (Josh 12:6). It covers much of modern day Syria, Lebanon, and Jordan.

Josh 12:7 picks up with Joshua's leadership. Josh 12:9 lists the victory at Jericho. This city is just north of the Dead Sea and West (to the left) of the Jordan River. Then to Ai (Josh 12:9) which is in the mountains/hills to the West (Left). His conquest yielded land far to the south and west of the Dead Sea (Josh 12:8, the Negev); and as far north as Mt. Hermon (40 or more miles North of the Sea of Galilee. It also included all of the land West to the Mediterranean Sea.

The point is: This was no small task and proved to be a great victory. God gave them possession of 31 different kingdoms. Here are a couple of observations:

There is no mention here of any losses. Yes, there was a defeat at Ai but in the end, it was marked as a victory. In like manner, there are many battles and skirmishes we encounter in our lives. Sometimes we dwell on the failures and miss out on the successes. This summary of the seven years of battles records only the victories.

The battles that were won were credited to the sons of Israel (Josh 12:1). Those victories under both Moses and Joshua are listed here. The only reason for this is because both Moses and Joshua were actors in the plan of God. The story is about God's fulfilled promise...notthe military or leadership abilities of Moses and Joshua. (I wonder how our story will be told...was it about us...or about the One who saved us and called us?)

Proverbs 4:25 is the takeaway for me. Living a life that honors God requires great focus and intentionality. It is a simple life...in that the decisions are not difficult. The key is to be focused on being tucked in right behind Jesus. We must stay focused with laser-sharp intensity, not being willing to be distracted and pulled to the left or the right. This is the key to godliness.

Grace,

Take Two: Joshua 11, Proverbs 3

Chapter 11 continues to chronicle the events of conquering the land. A couple of things of interest struck me (pun intended!).

In Josh 11:6 God promises, "I will deliver all of them slain...". In Josh 11:7, it is Joshua and the warriors who do the slaying. God promised the victory but the labor continued to be the responsibility of the people. Sometimes we see the promises of God and think that God will work while we remain passive. There are times when God tells us to stand back and watch...or when He just does something that we observe. We do not have a difficult time seeing God's hand in these circumstances. This, however, is not the only way God works. As here in Joshua, God also works through us. Even if the victory is a result of God's power and our obedience, He gets credit for accomplishing the task!

So, who earned the money to send your kid to college? God provided. Who put food on the table? God provided. Who saved you from the wreck on the Interstate? (Not your super driving skills only...) God provided!

Josh 11:12 states that Joshua's actions were now beginning to come from what Moses had instructed...not just what God spoke to Him one-to-one. Here is the point: In Joshua's mind...there is no difference in God's Word to Moses or God's Word to him. Joshua respected the recorded instructions given to Moses as being just as authoritative as what He received personally.

Josh 11:22 records a statement of possession change. It is not the land of those who had inhabited it...but is the land of the sons of Israel. The section ends in Josh 11:23 with the phrase, "Thus the land had rest from war."

Proverbs 3:33 is the takeaway. The wicked are cursed by the Lord whether they realize it or not. The righteous are blessed by the Lord whether they realize it or not. There is a reality of our existence and status with God that sometimes eludes us. Sometimes we experience trials, even though we are righteous and act rigtheously. We wonder, "Why is this happening? Why am I not being blessed of God when I do as I do?" In truth...we are being blessed. We may not realize it or feel it but truth is truth just the same. We may be overlooking the grace God blesses us with to endure the trial and magnify Him in the process. We may be unaware of how bad things could be for us...and yet we are blessed with only the trials we have.

Grace,

Take Two: Joshua 10, Proverbs 2

A couple of key observations will help in understanding this narrative in chapter 10. First, all of the actions taken by Joshua and the people were directed by the Lord and they were carried out exactly as give (Josh 10:40). Because of his obedience, God actually fought for His people and brought about overwhelming victory (Josh 10:42). Second, while Joshua and the Isaelites are the recipients of God's blessings here...that is not the point. The point is that the people are actually instruments of God's blessings/judgment as He judges the people in the land (the Amorites, etc.)

God judges sin. The people who lived in these lands were extremely wicked people. God is exercising judgment on them...even to the point of a giant hailstorm (Josh 10:11), and causing the sun to stand still so as to finish the judgment against them (Josh 10:12-14). The Israelites are an instrument of God's judgment against the people.

Now many questions come to our mind. Did the people ever have a chance to hear about God? How can God judge people so harshly? How can He have mercy on Israel (they mess up) and not be merciful toward these people?

All of these questions presuppose information that may not be true. We know that the reputation of God's people and how God had delievered them was widespread. We know that many of these nations were aware of how God was exercising great power to conquer the land through and for Israel. Yet...where is the cry for mercy from the Amorites? Where is the seeking of information about the God who has shown Himself powerful on Israel's behalf? The actions we see in the inhabitants of the land is a self-reliance, a desire/act to stop God, and deception to preserve oneself. All of these responses are man-centered and fail ultimately to provide for these people.

God is showing Himself to be more powerful than anything these people were relying on. He does this for the confidence of Israel...and for the testimony before these people. Those who respond...asking for mercy...receive it. To date...that number includes Rahab. (Now you see part of why I identified these people as extremely wicked.)

Perhaps you read this narrative in Joshua and think, "That is a lot of killing! Why is the detail of judgment against them so important to give?" I think it is because sin is ugly and there is only one way to deal with sin. Yes...all sin. The wages of sin is death (Rom 6:23). For those who will not repent of sin...the Joshua narrative is the future.

As long as Israel follows the Lord's directives to the letter, they are experienceing great victory. When they do not...they experience the judgment of God (which is also seen in the removal of blessing). Wow! If that is true, when we live outside of the directives of God, we lose His blessing (since He will not bless disobedience)...meaning we live under God's judgment. That should motivate us to look deeply into our lives to see what areas we are not living according to God's directives!

Proverbs 2:10-12 is the takeaway today. As I read these verses many face came to mind. The Word of God is a guard for us to keep us from evil. Many of those who I have known who have "fallen away" have done so gradually. They first began to be "too busy" to prioritize church where they would hear and have God's Word applied. Then they would digress in their associations. Ultimately, they would take a complacent/indifferent view of evil (as God defines it)...and even digress to embracing evil in their own actions. The wisdom of God, God's Word, protects us and delivers us from these things. The pathway to experiencing this evil...begins with the willingness to forsake God's Word.

Grace,

Take Two: Joshua 9, Proverbs 1

Chapter 9 shows us more of the exploits of the Israelites and the decisions/ consequences of their journey.

Because of their reputation, the inhabitants of the land began to conspire how to deceive them and distract them from their victory. Be assured that whenever God is at work, so is the enemy. The Hivites (Josh 9:7) approached the Israelites at Gilgal (Josh 9:6) and asked to be accepted among them as servants. They claimed to be people who journeyed from far away. The Israelite leaders were a bit suspicious (Josh 9:7), but dismissed their suspicion without seeking God and accepted the foreign deceivers (Josh 9:14). The result was a slight loss of confidence in the Israelite leaders by the people and a constant presence of enemy in their midst (Josh 9:27).

God gives us a voice that speaks into our situations. He is the Holy Spirit. The Holy Spirit will guide us into all truth if we will only slow down long enough to listen and wait.

Proverbs 1:7 is the takeaway today. Gaining wisdom and acting wisely is never divorced from knowing God, His will, and pursuing His ways.

Take Two: Joshua 8, Proverbs 31

Having carried out the judgment against sin in their own camp (Achan) in chapter 7, there is still land to conquer. In Joshua 8:1-2, God instructs the nation to rise up and carry on with their mission.

Many believers live in extremes of their own self-awareness. Some act as though they are the point...that in the end, God is lucky to have them. Others can't seem to get past the fact that they were utterly lost and that God would save a horrible, wretched sinner like them. Both extremes hurt the believer, because one cannot be all that God intends by either discounting the Holiness of God (I am not so bad), or the redemption of God (I can never be of any value). The truth is...we were once absolutely lost in sin, but now are absolutely saved and redeemed.

Israel's actions of getting back up after chapter 7 give a glimpse of what they understood about God. It is as if they were "stuck" or waiting at the point of "God forgive me" and God said..."already have, now let's get started again." The evidence of redemption is what you do with it.

The battle plan that unfolds in Joshua 8:3-17 is pretty simple. Hide 30,000 warriors behind the city. Send 5,000 to the road to Bethel (so that Bethel doesn't decide to get involved). and send the rest to the front door. When Ai comes against you...act defeated and scared. They will become over-confident (based on this experience and their previous victory.) They will over-commit and chase the guys at the front. When they abandon their city...the guys out back are to occupy the city and burn it with fire. In Joshua 8:18-24, we see that the plan worked out flawlessly and the warriors of Ai were caught between both of Israel's forces.

Here are a couple of observations. First, God brought a victory at Ai, but in a way that was different than the victory at Jericho. God is creative in His ways. He never wants us to take for granted how He will act. He does not want us to look for a magic formula for success and become confident in the formula, rather than the God who works.

Second, God is the giver of the battle plan. Israel waited on God for these instructions and followed them to the letter. (Secret message implied in that :) ).

In Joshua 8:24-29, we see that the victory was complete. All were judged and destroyed, including the king. A word of caution...God did not destroy innocent people here. God judged a wicked society and completely annihilated sin. As with Achan, sin has only one solution. It must be absolutely judged and utterly annihilated.

Joshua 8:30-35 is a time of obedience and worship. One historian commented that the ancient tradition was for a king to write down the details of the victorious battle plan. Israel did not attribute their victory to a well-executed strategy, but to the powerful God they served. They wrote down the Law and offered sacrifices and read from God's Law. This was not a random idea, but the fulfillment of Moses' instructions given in Deut 27:1-8.

Keep in mind, the judgment of sin in chapter 7 brought clearly into focus the attitude toward obeying God displayed in chapter 8. Every word is given for a reason and is essential and required.

Proverbs 31:30 is the takeaway for today. Not being a woman myself...bear with me as I apply this broadly. Many things are highly regarded in our culture. Eloquence, wealth, good looks... these are all highly sought traits. The point of this verse is that while these are good qualities, they all fade. Ultimately, the characteristic that endures is a person's relationship with God. As such, a "woman" who fears the Lord shall ultimately triumph. How does one "fear the Lord?" Is it intellectual or practical? Answer: YES. It is a mindset that reveals itself in practical acts. We see this woman's reverence for God in her actions toward her household, herself, and her community. May it be so with each of us.

Grace,

Take Two: Joshua 7, Proverbs 30

Chapter 7 never ceases to amaze me. In Joshua 7:1, we see the thesis statement for the chapter. Israel has sinned and therefore God's anger burned against them. Often times, we (in the church today) view sin as something that is true...but is also a part of reality. We have become, in many ways, tolerant of sin in our lives. We don't like "big" sins, like murder and idolatry...but we have come to be accepting of sins like lust, covetous (greed), and even adultery. We can "understand" how a person could become unfaithful to his/her spouse...and can even "work with them" as they think about forsaking the sin.

God's view of sin is much more "black and white." If it is sin, it must be forsaken. No sin is allowed. Sin requires judgment. Period.

In Joshua 7:2-5 we see the consequences of sin. A stunning defeat (in the wake of the victory at Jericho) has taken place and 36 men are dead.

In Joshua 7:6-11 Joshua and the elders are praying before God and seeking answers. God said to Joshua, "Get up. the problem is sin." God will not tolerate, wink at, or bless the product of sin. You may think that God is blessing you...but if there is sin involved...you can bank on the fact that judgment is coming.

Joshua 7:12-21 details God's prescription for the sin. Bring the people by until I identify them, then exercise judgment and utterly destroy the entire family for the sin. (Sounds a little harsh doesn't it? How else though is a holy God to act toward sin?)

It was interesting to me that Joshua gave them the night to think it through (Josh 7:13-15). Achan knew what was coming in the morning. So did his wife and family. Yet...he decided to "roll the dice" and wait and see. This is the same attitude displayed when the command to avoid things under the ban was given in ch. 6. It is not that this was new information. "Do not take the stuff," was pretty clear...whether you agree with it or not. Even after the line-up, Achan never confessed. It was not until Joshua looked him in the eyes and confronted him that he came clean. At that point it was too late.

Every person has their sins judged. Even those who don't believe in the things of God. We as believers give a call to repent (not unlike the implication in this text) and they must choose to confess their sins...or to take their chances. If one chooses to "roll the dice," a day will come when the game is over. God will examine the person, examine the sin, and pronounce holy judgment against it.

For those who have confessed their sins and called on Jesus to have mercy and save...your sins were judged too. In Christ, God judged your sin with His death. Not one sin was overlooked, winked at, or mitigated. Christ bore the full weight of every sin so that you could avoid the judgment of Achan. As a Christ follower, you now are called to "feel" and "act" the same way toward sin as God does.

Proverbs 30:5-6 are the takeaway for me today. God's Word is solid. It stands on its own merits and is sufficient to accomplish its task. We are not called to mitigate it or to add to it. We are called to obey it...knowing that it is sufficient in itself. In fact, we do great harm to people's trust in the Word when we try to add to it. Once they realize that we cannot back up our claim of what we say the Word says...they wonder what else we are embellishing.

Take Two: Joshua 6, Proverbs 29

As I was reading this chapter (which is pretty familiar to me) I observed this great thought: "God's REALITY" and our reality are SO different!" God sees things we cannot see. He thinks things that never occur to us. He has some crazy ways of going about things. If He were not God...He's so radical...I would be scared to even follow Him.

In vv.1-2, Joshua is looking at the most heavily fortified and defended city in the region...which is completely "shut up"...meaning that the gates are closed and no one is stirring. God says: See, I have already given it into your hand. I know it looks like it clearly belongs to them, but it is yours. I know you can't even get in right now...but you can add this one to your asset list. You own it. That is INCREDIBLE!

In vv.3-16 we see a battle plan that is not reflected in military strategy today. No one says... OK, let's get the priests to lead us into battle. We will let them carry the Ark which is heavy, precious, and represents for us all that is significant. They will parade it around the city while they blow trumpets to get everyone inside to pay attention. We will do that for a week. Then...we'll all walk around the city 7 times...shout...and watch the walls fall down.

In vv.17-19 God tells them to utterly destroy everthing except for what God wanted in the treasury of the house of God so that they would not "covet" them and bring a curse on the people (v.18). In other words, while God is pretty radical, He states "up front" that trust MUST be in Him alone...or we will suffer consequences.

In vv.20-27, Judgment is executed and nothing survives except that which went into the Treasury...and Rahab and her family. Joshua even pronounces a curse on the land for anyone who would dare rebuild there.

Something crazy hit me about the Rahab story. I wonder how her family felt about her up to this point? Did her father "brag" to all his golfing buddies about how smart and business savvy his daughter was? Did her brothers carry her picture around at work and speak of how much they respected her? Probably not. Being a harlot in those days was about as glamorous as it is today. I imagine that this woman likely sat around reading books like "how to have your best life now" in hopes of feeling better about herself. Yet...she took a risk and trusted in God. She only knew about God... that He was powerful on behalf of "His people." She and her people were scared...but she risked enough to act...in hopes that she might become one of God's people.

What do you think the comments were when her family showed up at her home (which was really a home office/place of business). Don't you imagine that even her brothers (okay, especially her brothers) were poking at her a little about how she was a disappointment to the family? Don't you think her father sat in the corner and had very little to say? Yet...God used this discounted, disappointing woman who had sold her body to make a living day after day...to save her family from sheer destruction. Because of her...her family lived in the midst of God's people all of their days...because she RISKED to be with God (v.25).

In truth, there a is Rahab in every one of us. We are all the product of bad choices...and if children of God...a product of grace. Be RISKY and trust God to bring His reality to become your reality.

Proverbs 29:25 is the takeaway for me today. "The fear of man brings a snare. but he who trusts in the Lord will be exalted." This connects because of the "reality" I discussed above. For those who trust in the reality of human wisdom...destruction awaits. For those who reject man's reality and embrace the "God reality," they actually don't just survive...they thrive. May God grant us grace today to reject human reality and embrace the reality of trusting in God and making decisions for God alone!

Take Two: Joshua 5, Proverbs 28

In the fifth chapter of Joshua, we are introduced to another activity that took place at Gilgal. The narrative begins in v.1 where we see that the kings of the people of the land were dismayed in their hearts. They had seen and heard how the Lord was bringing victory to Israel in the conquest of the land. Even before the first battle, they could see the hand of God bringing victory.

In vv.2-9 we see a great battle plan. Rather than capitalizing on the demoralized state of the Amorites and the Canaanites, the people paused. God instructed Joshua to circumcize all of the men. Remember that circumcision is a sign of the covenant. All of those who were born during the 40 years of desert wandering had not taken on the sign of the covenant. Before God begins to bring a victory in the land, He instructed that the men take on the sign.

Now we know that this was an incapacitating act, because the people camped at Gilgal to heal. This cannot be seen as a strong show of military strength. It made no sense by any human standard. It was an act of worshipful obedience. We are called to obey God in areas of our lives that don't make sense to us. Yet...they always make sense to God and are statements of trust and worship.

I have been discussing a stronghold of finances for several weeks at the church I serve as pastor. I know personally how difficult it was for me to be obedient in this area. However, I came to the place of trusting God. My trust yielded great victory and provided the opportunity for God to once again demonstrate His ability, desire, and willingness to provide. I am watching people struggle in this area even now. Obedience doesn't make sense based on the numbers in the checkbook. But God is not defined by our account balances and the results of obedience aren't factored into our logic.

In the same attitude, the people paused in their activities and chose to worship in their obedience and submission before God here at Gilgal. On that day, God rolled away the reproach of 40 years and they began afresh (v.9).

In vv.10-12 we see the observance of the Passover. Having built a Memorial and taken on the sign of the covenant...it was important to see again that victory does not come through human wisdom or sheer might, but by the Grace of God. The annual feast of the Passover was given as a reminder of this.

VV.13-15 are transitional and could be discussed in Ch 6. It is the narrative of the encounter between Joshua and the pre-incarate Christ. This is what is called a "Christophany." I say this is a transitional passage because, like the verses before it..it is a picture of God's ability and activity that will bring a victory for Israel. It also introduces the battle plan that will be carried out in Ch 6 that involves the actions of the people in the unfolding of God's plan.

Always bear in mind what we will see over and over in this book. God brings victory; but, He most often does it through people. God desires to bring victory in your life...but He does that as you trust and obey Him. He gives victory over temptation by providing a way out...not by removing temptation (1 Cor 10:13). He conquers the land before us through our obedience to follow His directions, not in spite of it. It is clearly a victory that results from Grace...but entails a divine COOPERATION.

Proverbs 28:1 is the takeaway today. "The wicked flee when no one is pursuing, but the righteous are bold as a lion." When in Africa several years ago, we went on a photo safari in a game preserve. We saw many animals that I am fascinated by (including my favorite-- the Rhino). We saw a couple of lions as well and the experience came to mind as I read this today.

No matter what was going on around them, the lions never seemed to get frazzled. They never seemed anxious that a "Kudoo" (a deer) might get the jump on them. They did not seem intimidated by Zebra gangs in the neighborhood. They were always steady...as if they drew confidence from the fact that they were at the top of the food chain. The Kudoos and Zebras on the other hand...they were always a little nervous. Constantly scanning the horizon, flinching at every sound...and running away...even when a predator had not presented itself (just in case).

Such is the action of the unjust/wicked in this case. I am reminded of the times in my life when I knew I was wrong (sinning) and was just waiting for my sins to "find me out." I lived on edge and quite miserably too. At the same time, I know what it is to live clean. To have no unconfessed sin in my life. To not worry about being found out...because there is nothing to find. Just as this proverb implies...the latter is far greater than the former.

Grace,

Take Two: Joshua 4, Proverbs 27

The 4th chapter of Joshua details the crossing (v.1) of the Jordan and the setting up of a memorial at Gilgal (v.20). A lot of detail is included in the story...most of which needs no commentary. However, the concept of the memorial stones serves as a good place for us to discuss a principle that God showed me some years back. Everyone needs an anchor.

Along the way in our journey as believers, there are moments of significance that we would do well to never forget. I remember my baptism. I remember when pastor Coker baptized me on a Sunday night nearly thrity years ago now. I remember the event, not because I was saved that night. I became a Christ-follower several days prior. I remember the event because that day I went public with my commitment. That day, I glorified God in my obedience. That day, I said to many people who would serve as accountability for me...today I profess my allegiance to Christ.

I remember the day (not the date) many years later, when Marvin Aranoye preached on a Sunday night at my church. I was struggling with being a nominal Christian. I struggled with sin, my commitment to Christ, and my faithfulness to keep my commitments to God. That night, God gripped my heart with the words of Marvin Aranoye. I repented that night of my sin and committed afresh to trust God no matter what! I followed that up by publicly professing this decision before my church. This event served as an anchor for me.

Personally, I have some anchor events. I stood at an altar before my youth pastor June 25, 1988 and professed publicly my commitment to Jodi, my wife. That day is an anchor point in my life. My first jump out of an airplane in 1988 serves as an anchor point when I confronted my fear of heights.

When I say "anchor points," what I mean is...that place and time where things simply made sense and I drew a line and stepped over it. Life is crazy. Sometimes it runs rampant and gets messy. Yet...no matter how crazy it gets, I can always return to the anchor point and find stability. I have revisited my salvation many times. I have examined it (because I was young) to insure that I truly believed at that moment. I can do that because it was linked to my anchor point of baptism. The same is true of my Sunday with Bro. Marvin. On that day, I drew a line in the sand more significant than many other similar decisions. The enemy has tried to tell me through the years that I am a fraud and lack commitment. No matter how convincing he is at the time...I can return to my anchor point and know he is the liar and I am not.

Something about anchor points: for us who have them they are significant. For those who are onlookers, they are just a pile of rocks. The inhabitants of the land probably came by Gilgal for many years afterwards. I imagine a little boy asked his dad, "What's up with that pile of rocks? Why are they arranged right there?" The dad either made up a story about dinosaurs, the easter bunny or evolution...and changed the subject. But to the Israelites who passed by...these rocks were significant. The Israelite dad would tell his children that the rocks came off the bottom of the riverbed beside the feet of the priests on the day God stopped up the water and delivered the promised land to His people. No one had to wonder if God could save them or provide for them...they could look at the anchor point that God had them build as a memorial to His provision on that day.

What's your anchor? Do you catch yourself looking back on a particular moment and being reminded of God's grace in your life? Or is it hazy? Maybe you need to establish an anchor point in your life today. Do it...and make it public. Let it be a time when you can always point to for comfort and peace when life gets crazy.

Proverbs 27:6 is the takeaway today: "Faithful are the wounds of a friend, but deceitful are the kisses of an enemy." Sometimes people tell us things about us or our circumstances. Maybe it is advice, counsel, or a general observation. We always ought to evaluate this input and consider strongly the character and track record of the giver of the info. Friends, if they truly are, won't always tell us what we want to hear...but what we need to hear. They have proven their friendship and we can trust that they may see things about us that we cannot see. Our enemy may pour it on...but it could be (and often is) that he is working a personal agenda.

Grace,

Take Two: Joshua 3, Proverbs 26

In Chapter 3, the Israelites begin to do something that is a major test of faith for them. They are to cross the Jordan. This act of crossing over into their new land is the very place their ancestors turned back and suffered because of it. For 40 years as they wandered in the desert, they had heard stories of how their parents refused to believe God, rebelled against God and failed to obtain the promise God had given them.

Now, they were encamped alongside the Jordan river, which was in flood stage. This means that it had overflowed its banks. Here are the instructions. The priests will go ahead of you carrying the Ark of the Covenant. Now the Ark symbolized the presence of God. So hear it this way: The Lord will go before you (v.3). Stay 1000 yards behind the Ark (v.4). [I think this is a cool picture of following after God but doing so with holy reverence....]

In vv.7-8, God tells Joshua that He will begin to exalt Joshua in the eyes of the people so that the people will know that Joshua is walking closely with God and is His appointed leader.

This is very interesting to me as a baptist in the modern era. We have a tendency to want to "normalize" the pastor to such a point that he is just one of the guys. In many ways...he is. But at the same time, he is also God's chosen/appointed leader and God uses him in a unique way. In these verses, it seems that God knew that people place a great deal of confidence in their leaders...and that is ok with God; in fact, He promotes that. Perhaps we in the modern era are missing something when we try to make everyone the same.

V.13 (see also 15-16) is a pretty cool verse that has influenced me in recent years. God promised to stop up the Jordan "when" the priests stepped into the waters. God did not stop up the river until the priests believed God and demonstrated their belief by stepping into the river. Many times, we want God to make everything clear and work out all the details in our life before we decide to trust Him and obey. I have found that God will give us enough for one step...and when we take it, God gives us the next step.

V.17 says that the priest stood in the midst of a dry riverbed while the nation of Israel crossed over. I am not sure how long it takes for a riverbed to dry up...but I do know that this would not have happened without a powerful demonstration of God's power. Not only did He stop a river up while in floodstage...far up river...but He dried up the ground where the people would walk so that as long as they did as God directed, they would stand firmly on solid ground. (I sort of want to sing a hymn here!)

There is no limit as to what God can do and will do to accomplish His purpose. He has spent 40 years preparing His people for this chapter of their lives. Now God...to fulfill His covenant promise is going to dispossess tens of thousands of people of their land and give it to Israel. What is required to receive this blessing from God? The faith to step into the water. The faith to follow after God with holy reverence. The faith to believe Him...even when the circumstances seem too difficult to overcome.

Proverbs 26:20 is the takeaway today. "For lack of wood the fire goes out, and where there is no whisperer, contention quiets down." As wood is the fuel to a fire, so a whisperer (a gossip) is to contention, dissension, and strike.

Grace,

Take Two: Joshua 2, Proverbs 25

Joshua 2 is a difficult chapter for some to swallow. Some read it and try to allegorize the story because they cannot get their hands around how God could honor a woman (Rahab) who conspired with God's people to lie in order to protect herself and her family. I don't have these same issues. Remember, Joshua is a historical book. The story shows us God's mercy and God's faithfulness...not a 10 step process to overthrowing a city "God style". God does not approve of lying...but nowhere do we read that God directed this woman to lie. Another reason I can handle the Rahab story without becoming too self-righteous...is I recall how God has been merciful to me...and even continues to do good things through my service to him...even though I am at least as messed up as Rahab.

In vv.1-7 we see that two spies were sent to Jericho. (Not sure why only 2 and not 12). When they go to Jericho, they end up in a brothel (a prostitute's house.) I am sure that this was intentional. I imagine that Rahab's neighbors were accustomed to seeing strangers come and go...and had become a bit insensitive to them. Somebody saw them though. When the king's men got there, she lied about the Israelites and sent the king's men in the opposite direction. This was a negotiated response.

In vv.8-14 we see that Rahab had negotiated with the spies to hide them in exchange for her life. No honor there. She did not ask for her city to be spared. She did not try to protect her neighbors. She simply asked for mercy toward her and her family in exchange for not blowing the whistle. She told the spies that the stories of Israel's situation had been made known. Apparently...what God was doing with His people had been in the news for years. She mentions the Red Sea (v.10) which had occurred 40 years before. Had her people been simply waiting for God to get 'em for 40 years?

In vv.15-24, the spies promise to spare Rahab...if she would place the red cloth out the window and leave it there. She was to gather her family to her house and stay there. She was to keep her promise and wait for Israel to conquer the city. You know...her doing this based on a 40 year legend and a visit by two guys who had to be hidden under some stalks of flax on the roof...really required some faith on her part. So Rahab, believing in the coming Day, acted accordingly. She hid the spies, then helped them escape without notice. I bet they weren't even out of sight before she hung a big scarlet sash out the window. I even bet she checked on her testimony (sash) daily to make sure it was still in tact...She wanted God (God's people) to know where her allegience was when the Day came.

Proverbs 25:21-22 is the takeaway today: "If your enemy is hungry, give him food to eat; if he is thirsty, give him water to drink; for you will heap burning coals on his head, and the Lord will reward you."

How do you respond to your enemy. As grandma used to say, "Kill them with kindness." Isn't it hard to be angry with someone who is blessing you even though you are blessing them out? Same for them. When people come against you...want to malign you, respond in kindness. Doing so leaves room for the Lord to work in their lives. (Remember Romans 12:14-21?) You will go from the object of their attack to the instrument of God's redemption. And, God will reward you...because you responded to His instruction and not out of some sense of self-preservation or self-interest. That, friends, is Kingdom living.

Grace,