This has been an intersting first step for me.
How to win the war after you lose the battle, there have been many lost battles in the last week. Personal ones where I failed. Faith ones where I did not do the good I knew I should do. But at the end of it all, I really feel like God has brought me to a better place. It's been interesting recording how he speaks to me and prepares me through my time with him. Or maybe how he invests his time in me and makes my day match or a training ground to apply what he has taught me.
Will start on my next book devotional soon, and maybe return to Joshua in a while.
Tuesday, February 24, 2015
Thursday, February 19, 2015
Joshua Chapter 8
After the Achan/Ai fiasco it's easy to see why God's next communique with Joshua was do not be afraid, do not be discouraged, take the whole army with you and attach Ai. You will do to Ai what you did to Jericho, and the people may take the plunder. And God tells them to set an ambush behind the city.
So Josh sent 30,000 of his best to camp behind he city, the plan was that while he created a diversion and pulled the attacking force of Ai away from their city, the ambush party would take the city.
When the ambush party left. Joshua stayed with the people.
God gave Joshua a sign, to hold the javelin in his hand towards Ai, because God had given the city into his hand. This was the sign for the ambushers, who I am assuming had amazing eye sight to attacked the city.
Put it to flame. and caught the army of Ai between the ambush force and Joshua's force.
They destroyed Ai. Took the plunder and impaled the king of Ai before burying him.
After the victory Joshua built an altar, the way Moses said to, with it they offered God burnt offerings and fellowship offerings. And Joshua blessed the people. And Joshua read the law, all of it, from start to finish.
Joshua chose his best to invade Ai, when you're delegating someone to lead an autonomous group, put all your best into it.
Joshua stayed with the people until early morning. He knew this was when the people needed him most.
After the heavy day, Joshua brought the people before God blessed them and gave them God's word.
No matter how the day plays out. At the end, return to God's word.
So Josh sent 30,000 of his best to camp behind he city, the plan was that while he created a diversion and pulled the attacking force of Ai away from their city, the ambush party would take the city.
When the ambush party left. Joshua stayed with the people.
God gave Joshua a sign, to hold the javelin in his hand towards Ai, because God had given the city into his hand. This was the sign for the ambushers, who I am assuming had amazing eye sight to attacked the city.
Put it to flame. and caught the army of Ai between the ambush force and Joshua's force.
They destroyed Ai. Took the plunder and impaled the king of Ai before burying him.
After the victory Joshua built an altar, the way Moses said to, with it they offered God burnt offerings and fellowship offerings. And Joshua blessed the people. And Joshua read the law, all of it, from start to finish.
Joshua chose his best to invade Ai, when you're delegating someone to lead an autonomous group, put all your best into it.
Joshua stayed with the people until early morning. He knew this was when the people needed him most.
After the heavy day, Joshua brought the people before God blessed them and gave them God's word.
No matter how the day plays out. At the end, return to God's word.
Joshua Chapter 7 (Response)
I'm still grappling with the idea of Achan, of collective responsibility. of sin having consequences on family and life in general. I know sin has consequence, But the idea that sin can destroy, or that God would allow sin to destroy not just the life of the sinner, but everything in his life, still bugs me.
I guess in a perfect world, sin would not effect anyone else, but often sin is against someone else. Namely God and his creation. I know that when I sin it is not in my own little bubble. But that that sin will often effects the people who are the closest to me.
In the context of the cross, God doesn't punish the son for the father's sin, but in the context of the world, sin is hereditary. Sons end up like their fathers, daughters end up like their mothers. And the truth of this is all too real for many.
As for the question of if I can trust a God who would allow the world to get this messed up. I also have to remember that he is the same God who gave man a solution for sin. By paying the penalty for every kind of sin himself.
His life.
For ours.
Just yesterday I was reminded very vividly how God brings people who have experienced and struggle with the same troubles I struggle with on a daily basis to me, because I know what it's like. I am also reminded that I do not overcome by my own strength but by his. How can I not love a God with such a ridiculous love for us.
Yes sin has consequences, and yes I'm still a sinner. But I am sanctified by the blood of the lamb. And he is my all in all. And that will not change. Because he does not change.
I guess in a perfect world, sin would not effect anyone else, but often sin is against someone else. Namely God and his creation. I know that when I sin it is not in my own little bubble. But that that sin will often effects the people who are the closest to me.
In the context of the cross, God doesn't punish the son for the father's sin, but in the context of the world, sin is hereditary. Sons end up like their fathers, daughters end up like their mothers. And the truth of this is all too real for many.
As for the question of if I can trust a God who would allow the world to get this messed up. I also have to remember that he is the same God who gave man a solution for sin. By paying the penalty for every kind of sin himself.
His life.
For ours.
Just yesterday I was reminded very vividly how God brings people who have experienced and struggle with the same troubles I struggle with on a daily basis to me, because I know what it's like. I am also reminded that I do not overcome by my own strength but by his. How can I not love a God with such a ridiculous love for us.
Yes sin has consequences, and yes I'm still a sinner. But I am sanctified by the blood of the lamb. And he is my all in all. And that will not change. Because he does not change.
Tuesday, February 17, 2015
Joshua Chapter 7
Achan was supposed to take the devoted things to the temple treasury. But he didn't. Now God got angry with Israel...
Wait what? the whole nation was under fire because of one man? A guy who is not even a leader, this guy is literally four rungs down the ladder. And God is laying the blame on the nation.
Meanwhile, Joshua's going on with the invasion. He's sent spies to Ai, and the spies come back saying, just send two or three thousand men and they'll be enough to take Ai. So Josh sends three thousand, and they're routed, why cause God is mad at Israel, because Achan stole what belongs to God. Sure it wasn't a huge loss, they sent three thousand, and they lost thirty six. But the people's reaction.
They collapsed in fear.Even Josh tore his clothes, fell before the ark and stayed near it till evening. All the elders joined him, and sprinkled dust on their heads. Suddenly all the miracles, Joshua's confidence shattered. Why did you bring us across the Jordan, If only we were content to stay on the other side, we've been routed, what can I say? Will not every other nation hear that we lost to Ai? Won't they come get us?
This is the man who not too long ago, spoke with the general of the Lord's army, crossed a flooded river on dry land, saw a city wall fall when his men cheered, and literally heard from God every day.
God's response is simply, Joshua why are you on your face? Israel has sinned. They have broken the covenant, they have taken the devoted things for themselves. Put it with their own stuff. That is the reason they cannot stand against their enemies. I am not going to be with you, unless you destroy what was supposed to be destroyed, and who did it and everything they own, with fire.
God tells Joshua to go and tall the people to consecrate themselves, cause there are dedicated things among the people. And they need to be found and destroyed.
I can imagine Achan thinking that there was no way he would be caught, and then remembering all the crazy things God had already done. And then his tribe was called, his division, his family, his clan. And then him.
Joshua asks him what he did, and he confesses, he knows he sinned against God. A robe, silver and gold, and it was beautiful, so I took them, and hid them in my tent.
His sin was exposed, and the consequence was that his family, posession, cattle and even his tent was destroyed. Because he brought trouble on Israel, But God wanted just the devoted things destroyed, did Joshua have to go so far? Was he making an example out of him?
Achan's mistake Israel lost thirty six innocent men, their position was compromised, their lives were shaken. One man's sin, became the first sin in the promised land.
I kind of see why Josh was the way he was. This one man's selfishness put everyone at risk. But I kind of admire Achan.
I feel like if I was in Achan's position, I might have done the same.
My fiancee pointed out that maybe Joshua was being merciful in that he stoned them, rather than burning them to death.
It just upsets me, I know that if it continued it would have got out of hand. And Israel would have imploded on itself, just like before. But it kind of feels excessive. kind of wrong.
So what can be learned.
It may seem like grace. But there are consequences for sin.
Both temporal and eternal.
Mercy is in the details.
He is still God, and that does not change. Am I willing to trust him, even when I don't understand his ways?
Wait what? the whole nation was under fire because of one man? A guy who is not even a leader, this guy is literally four rungs down the ladder. And God is laying the blame on the nation.
Meanwhile, Joshua's going on with the invasion. He's sent spies to Ai, and the spies come back saying, just send two or three thousand men and they'll be enough to take Ai. So Josh sends three thousand, and they're routed, why cause God is mad at Israel, because Achan stole what belongs to God. Sure it wasn't a huge loss, they sent three thousand, and they lost thirty six. But the people's reaction.
They collapsed in fear.Even Josh tore his clothes, fell before the ark and stayed near it till evening. All the elders joined him, and sprinkled dust on their heads. Suddenly all the miracles, Joshua's confidence shattered. Why did you bring us across the Jordan, If only we were content to stay on the other side, we've been routed, what can I say? Will not every other nation hear that we lost to Ai? Won't they come get us?
This is the man who not too long ago, spoke with the general of the Lord's army, crossed a flooded river on dry land, saw a city wall fall when his men cheered, and literally heard from God every day.
God's response is simply, Joshua why are you on your face? Israel has sinned. They have broken the covenant, they have taken the devoted things for themselves. Put it with their own stuff. That is the reason they cannot stand against their enemies. I am not going to be with you, unless you destroy what was supposed to be destroyed, and who did it and everything they own, with fire.
God tells Joshua to go and tall the people to consecrate themselves, cause there are dedicated things among the people. And they need to be found and destroyed.
I can imagine Achan thinking that there was no way he would be caught, and then remembering all the crazy things God had already done. And then his tribe was called, his division, his family, his clan. And then him.
Joshua asks him what he did, and he confesses, he knows he sinned against God. A robe, silver and gold, and it was beautiful, so I took them, and hid them in my tent.
His sin was exposed, and the consequence was that his family, posession, cattle and even his tent was destroyed. Because he brought trouble on Israel, But God wanted just the devoted things destroyed, did Joshua have to go so far? Was he making an example out of him?
Achan's mistake Israel lost thirty six innocent men, their position was compromised, their lives were shaken. One man's sin, became the first sin in the promised land.
I kind of see why Josh was the way he was. This one man's selfishness put everyone at risk. But I kind of admire Achan.
I feel like if I was in Achan's position, I might have done the same.
My fiancee pointed out that maybe Joshua was being merciful in that he stoned them, rather than burning them to death.
It just upsets me, I know that if it continued it would have got out of hand. And Israel would have imploded on itself, just like before. But it kind of feels excessive. kind of wrong.
So what can be learned.
It may seem like grace. But there are consequences for sin.
Both temporal and eternal.
Mercy is in the details.
He is still God, and that does not change. Am I willing to trust him, even when I don't understand his ways?
Joshua Chapter 6 (Response)
Maybe the hardest thing about being with God, is dealing with his unfailing love.
Imagine trying to love someone whose love is always one huge leap bigger than yours.
Who wants the very best and biggest thing for you. But wants you to choose it.
That is the love of God in a nutshell. It is this huge graceful, merciful, blesses when your cursing kind of love that goes above and beyond what mere mortals can imagine.
Our Jericho's were demolished long ago as an offering to God.
That's his grace and mercy, but can we raise the battle cry and go straight into them once the wall has fallen? I believe even the wall has fallen, and I'm still marching around Jericho, waiting for the priest's trumpets and God's calling.
His love has sustained me, and in the midst of my failures he blesses and blesses and blesses again. God it's so infuriating!
God is definitely at work. I let someone down a few days ago, and ran into them at the super market, and their story was one of Grace as to how God helped them through the situation and healed it. I spoke to one of my closest friends and we realized how much we both have grown and how much we can learn and share from each others lives. God helped me complete a project I thought would never get approved or go anywhere, and in the midst of it he gave me his rest, a new means to worship him, a new focus for ministry.
It's not that my sins and moods have changed, it's not that I found a secret three part formula, it's not that I have anything to do with any of it. He gives and gives and gives again. I find it infuriating sometimes.
Even today he blessed me by making me ask a friend to go for a jog with me, and he happens to be free and we meet up and have an epic jog and talk about the things going on in our lives and where ministry can go from here.
And this is what is so challenging about the love of God.
IT HAS NOTHING TO DO WITH ME.
I have no power to make him love me any less.
I can't imagine hi loving me anymore.
I pray for him to bless my father he blesses my father.
I Pray for him to help me with my fears he gives me someone to talk to, who opens by talking about his fears.
I pray for my friend who is going through a hard time, he helps them.
I would like to believe it is because I prayed, but no!
It's because he loves.
He blessed me with teaching, even broke through my wall of cynical to get the message through.
He stays the same.
His love doesn't change.
It has nothing to do with me.
It's not coincidence.
It's not a self fulfilling prophecy.
It's grace when people hurt you,
And mercy when you fail.
It's holding when your lonely,
And sending you a brother.
It's taking your mess ups,
And making them beautiful.
His love, makes mess ups,
Beautiful.
His love makes me beautiful,
I'm not angry with his love.
I'm angry with being beautiful.
Imagine trying to love someone whose love is always one huge leap bigger than yours.
Who wants the very best and biggest thing for you. But wants you to choose it.
That is the love of God in a nutshell. It is this huge graceful, merciful, blesses when your cursing kind of love that goes above and beyond what mere mortals can imagine.
Our Jericho's were demolished long ago as an offering to God.
That's his grace and mercy, but can we raise the battle cry and go straight into them once the wall has fallen? I believe even the wall has fallen, and I'm still marching around Jericho, waiting for the priest's trumpets and God's calling.
His love has sustained me, and in the midst of my failures he blesses and blesses and blesses again. God it's so infuriating!
God is definitely at work. I let someone down a few days ago, and ran into them at the super market, and their story was one of Grace as to how God helped them through the situation and healed it. I spoke to one of my closest friends and we realized how much we both have grown and how much we can learn and share from each others lives. God helped me complete a project I thought would never get approved or go anywhere, and in the midst of it he gave me his rest, a new means to worship him, a new focus for ministry.
It's not that my sins and moods have changed, it's not that I found a secret three part formula, it's not that I have anything to do with any of it. He gives and gives and gives again. I find it infuriating sometimes.
Even today he blessed me by making me ask a friend to go for a jog with me, and he happens to be free and we meet up and have an epic jog and talk about the things going on in our lives and where ministry can go from here.
And this is what is so challenging about the love of God.
IT HAS NOTHING TO DO WITH ME.
I have no power to make him love me any less.
I can't imagine hi loving me anymore.
I pray for him to bless my father he blesses my father.
I Pray for him to help me with my fears he gives me someone to talk to, who opens by talking about his fears.
I pray for my friend who is going through a hard time, he helps them.
I would like to believe it is because I prayed, but no!
It's because he loves.
He blessed me with teaching, even broke through my wall of cynical to get the message through.
He stays the same.
His love doesn't change.
It has nothing to do with me.
It's not coincidence.
It's not a self fulfilling prophecy.
It's grace when people hurt you,
And mercy when you fail.
It's holding when your lonely,
And sending you a brother.
It's taking your mess ups,
And making them beautiful.
His love, makes mess ups,
Beautiful.
His love makes me beautiful,
I'm not angry with his love.
I'm angry with being beautiful.
Sunday, February 15, 2015
Joshua Chapter 6
Jericho was barred.
No one in, No one out. And God tells Joshua, that it's gift wrapped for them. Just march around the city once with all the armed men, Do this for the next six days, with 7 priests going before the Ark with trumpets, made from ram horns. On the seventh day march around the city 7 times and have the priests blow the horns. When the people hear the priests have them give out a great shout! Then the walls will come down and you can invade the city.
They did this for 6 Days and on the seventh day when the trumpet sounded the wall fell and Israel invaded Jericho. Joshua wanted to make Jericho a first fruit to the lord. He told the people to destroy everything and bring the precious metals into the treasury of the Lord's house.
Joshua told the spies to look after Rahab and give them a place to stay outside the camp of Israel. And the city was put to flames.
Jericho was burned.
At that time Joshua said, cursed before the lord is the one who tries to re build this city. At the cost of his first born he will lay it's foundations, at the cost of his youngest, he will set up it's gates.
These words would cost Heil of bethel heavily when he re-built Jericho.
So what does this mean?
God has gift wrapped the enemy. But there is a way to destroy it. It doesn't happen over night. It happens with the army prepared, priests to lead the way. And the presence of God going with them. And after 7 days. A complete period of time.
Often, the rejoicing and praising God should happen before the walls fall. Do I know God can deliver me? Do I have that kind of faith?
Keep your promises throughout. protect and take care of your Rahabs who helped you invade Jericho.
As I face this next week. I hope to see God at work, So God can give me victory over my Jericho's.
No one in, No one out. And God tells Joshua, that it's gift wrapped for them. Just march around the city once with all the armed men, Do this for the next six days, with 7 priests going before the Ark with trumpets, made from ram horns. On the seventh day march around the city 7 times and have the priests blow the horns. When the people hear the priests have them give out a great shout! Then the walls will come down and you can invade the city.
They did this for 6 Days and on the seventh day when the trumpet sounded the wall fell and Israel invaded Jericho. Joshua wanted to make Jericho a first fruit to the lord. He told the people to destroy everything and bring the precious metals into the treasury of the Lord's house.
Joshua told the spies to look after Rahab and give them a place to stay outside the camp of Israel. And the city was put to flames.
Jericho was burned.
At that time Joshua said, cursed before the lord is the one who tries to re build this city. At the cost of his first born he will lay it's foundations, at the cost of his youngest, he will set up it's gates.
These words would cost Heil of bethel heavily when he re-built Jericho.
So what does this mean?
God has gift wrapped the enemy. But there is a way to destroy it. It doesn't happen over night. It happens with the army prepared, priests to lead the way. And the presence of God going with them. And after 7 days. A complete period of time.
Often, the rejoicing and praising God should happen before the walls fall. Do I know God can deliver me? Do I have that kind of faith?
Keep your promises throughout. protect and take care of your Rahabs who helped you invade Jericho.
As I face this next week. I hope to see God at work, So God can give me victory over my Jericho's.
Joshua Chapter 5 Response
So here's the thing about war.
No one really wins. Someone just loses less.
This weekend was really bitter sweet. It had epic moments and awful ones. Moments where god used me, and moments where my heart lost focus, and I upset and hurt people. I was so sad and annoyed with myself the night after. I had hurt and mis-communicated so many things.
So much of it was good, but so much more was bad. People I love got hurt and I just walked away, cause I didn't know how to confront it. So much for strong and courageous. I wanted to make a difference but I was lazy when I needed to be strong and scared when I needed to be courageous.
The next day I was annoyed with it and that screwed everything up even more. My anger went out in so many different ways at people who had nothing to do with it. It just spiraled out of control. Before I knew it, it was done. And there was nothing I could do to fix it.
So here I find myself, scared and angry. Insecure and overloaded with work, without the strength or impetus to accomplish it. Far from victory, and feeling very defeated.
But I remember this.
In my weakness, his grace abounds. So I repented and I'm going to try and move forward in this, Accepting that he reminded me, war was coming. And I didn't gear for war. Well it's the beginning of another 7 day war. So I'm praying for grace and diving right in, and hope I lose less than I did last week. So I'm more like him at the end of it all.
No one really wins. Someone just loses less.
This weekend was really bitter sweet. It had epic moments and awful ones. Moments where god used me, and moments where my heart lost focus, and I upset and hurt people. I was so sad and annoyed with myself the night after. I had hurt and mis-communicated so many things.
So much of it was good, but so much more was bad. People I love got hurt and I just walked away, cause I didn't know how to confront it. So much for strong and courageous. I wanted to make a difference but I was lazy when I needed to be strong and scared when I needed to be courageous.
The next day I was annoyed with it and that screwed everything up even more. My anger went out in so many different ways at people who had nothing to do with it. It just spiraled out of control. Before I knew it, it was done. And there was nothing I could do to fix it.
So here I find myself, scared and angry. Insecure and overloaded with work, without the strength or impetus to accomplish it. Far from victory, and feeling very defeated.
But I remember this.
In my weakness, his grace abounds. So I repented and I'm going to try and move forward in this, Accepting that he reminded me, war was coming. And I didn't gear for war. Well it's the beginning of another 7 day war. So I'm praying for grace and diving right in, and hope I lose less than I did last week. So I'm more like him at the end of it all.
Thursday, February 12, 2015
Joshua Chapter 5
The kings around and along the Jordan were freaking out.
At this time God asked Joshua to circumcise the nation. Which seems like a strange move. Maybe God wanted to remind the nation how their fathers failed to enter the promised land and remind them to be faithful. Or maybe he wanted to remind the people that they were a people of a covenant who could only do things by God's strength. And going into battle he wanted them to keep these things in mind.
It's at this point that God tells Joshua, today I have rolled the reproach of Egypt from Him. So they named the place Gilgal. I see how the Israelite people were very Good at making things that would stir their memory towards what God said and did.
On that note, Israel celebrated Passover, which was a celebration of leaving Egypt. It's here that something interesting happened. They took and ate the produce of the land at pass over. And the next morning, the manna stopped. And from that day on they lived on the produce of Canaan.
It almost feels like God was weaning them, saying no more food, grow your own. I'm reminded that Man's punishment from the fall, was that he would have to work the land for food. And God's provision of manna in the desert should have been a sign of provision and care that Israel ignored.
All this would have been going through Joshua's mind. The thought of what is God preparing us for here at Gilgal. I imagine him going out for a walk near Jericho, when he came across a man with a sword in his hand. Joshua asked him if he is for us, or against us. (And that's where that phrase comes from) And his response was neither, I have come as the commander of the lord's army.
Joshua fell face down in reverence and said, what message does God send to his servant. And the commander of the lord's army tells him to take off his shoes, for he is standing on Holy ground.
I think the interesting thing about Gilgal, is that God was teaching his children what would be different across the Jordan. This is your home, forget about the reproach of Egypt. I am with you. Remember your covenant. These ideas flow over and over again through the scripture.
Joshua knew something different was coming, that this was what he needed to be strong and courageous for. I think God was preparing Israel for invasion.
What is God preparing me for?
At this time God asked Joshua to circumcise the nation. Which seems like a strange move. Maybe God wanted to remind the nation how their fathers failed to enter the promised land and remind them to be faithful. Or maybe he wanted to remind the people that they were a people of a covenant who could only do things by God's strength. And going into battle he wanted them to keep these things in mind.
It's at this point that God tells Joshua, today I have rolled the reproach of Egypt from Him. So they named the place Gilgal. I see how the Israelite people were very Good at making things that would stir their memory towards what God said and did.
On that note, Israel celebrated Passover, which was a celebration of leaving Egypt. It's here that something interesting happened. They took and ate the produce of the land at pass over. And the next morning, the manna stopped. And from that day on they lived on the produce of Canaan.
It almost feels like God was weaning them, saying no more food, grow your own. I'm reminded that Man's punishment from the fall, was that he would have to work the land for food. And God's provision of manna in the desert should have been a sign of provision and care that Israel ignored.
All this would have been going through Joshua's mind. The thought of what is God preparing us for here at Gilgal. I imagine him going out for a walk near Jericho, when he came across a man with a sword in his hand. Joshua asked him if he is for us, or against us. (And that's where that phrase comes from) And his response was neither, I have come as the commander of the lord's army.
Joshua fell face down in reverence and said, what message does God send to his servant. And the commander of the lord's army tells him to take off his shoes, for he is standing on Holy ground.
I think the interesting thing about Gilgal, is that God was teaching his children what would be different across the Jordan. This is your home, forget about the reproach of Egypt. I am with you. Remember your covenant. These ideas flow over and over again through the scripture.
Joshua knew something different was coming, that this was what he needed to be strong and courageous for. I think God was preparing Israel for invasion.
What is God preparing me for?
Joshua Chapter 4 (Response)
So where to start.
Fear is a powerful emotion. I think if you look at it from a primal perspective it is a defense mechanism that should keep us from danger. But fear has a completely useless side, where it paralyzes us and makes us feel helpless and lost.
What should urge us to action instead leads us to inaction, and inaction is a dangerous thing. Yesterday I was confronted with the idea of fear. An irrational fear of leaving home. Of change and the idea that I am not able to be who God needs me to be.
The idea that I am not a leader like Joshua, with 'God cravings' who connects the spiritual and secular seamlessly. I see a distinction, and my battle is that I am not a leader, or much of an example outside of ministry.
Or rather I do not have the faith to do the things God requires of me. And what are those things? I don't know honestly. I know the things he has told me to do and be. Disciple honestly, love boldly, seek him sincerely. Which I'm okay doing in my comfort zone, but not outside it.
Be strong and courageous.
Midst an ocean of other nations, other Gods, temptation and sin. Joshua was called to lead a nation known for messing up and angering the God they loved. And right now I feel less like Joshua and more like Israel, messed up and cringing at myself and God's discipline. Looking for anyone's guidance to lead me.
Part of me longs for the discipline of God, but part of me is afraid.
I guess it comes back to remembering who he is. He is strong. He is brave. He has done mighty things. And he is aiming to do mightier things still. He uses broken plans and people to do his will. Maybe that's what God was aiming for with what he thought me yesterday. Less prevention, more cure. To remind me that once I fall he hasn't changed, and his agenda is still the same.
I kind of envy Joshua.
In spite of the heavy burden on him, his passion and love for God carried him through.
I know I love God, but do I love him enough to sacrifice whatever he asks of me. To speak when my timidity says be silent. To lead when my heart says follow.
When I shared these thoughts with my fiancee she reminded me of our verse. God chose the foolish things of the world to shame the wise, the weak things of the world to shame the strong.
And she asked me if I am willing to let him be my all in all. I realized I'm okay with just him and nothing else. But I still am iffy about being used by him to be less and him being more. To do the things I am afraid to do and move out of my comfort zone to where he is. To step out of the boat.
I guess the best definition of my predicament is that I can live on mercy, but not on grace.
I want to see what it's like to walk on water, but I don't want to risk sinking.
But is that enough?
Fear is a powerful emotion. I think if you look at it from a primal perspective it is a defense mechanism that should keep us from danger. But fear has a completely useless side, where it paralyzes us and makes us feel helpless and lost.
What should urge us to action instead leads us to inaction, and inaction is a dangerous thing. Yesterday I was confronted with the idea of fear. An irrational fear of leaving home. Of change and the idea that I am not able to be who God needs me to be.
The idea that I am not a leader like Joshua, with 'God cravings' who connects the spiritual and secular seamlessly. I see a distinction, and my battle is that I am not a leader, or much of an example outside of ministry.
Or rather I do not have the faith to do the things God requires of me. And what are those things? I don't know honestly. I know the things he has told me to do and be. Disciple honestly, love boldly, seek him sincerely. Which I'm okay doing in my comfort zone, but not outside it.
Be strong and courageous.
Midst an ocean of other nations, other Gods, temptation and sin. Joshua was called to lead a nation known for messing up and angering the God they loved. And right now I feel less like Joshua and more like Israel, messed up and cringing at myself and God's discipline. Looking for anyone's guidance to lead me.
Part of me longs for the discipline of God, but part of me is afraid.
I guess it comes back to remembering who he is. He is strong. He is brave. He has done mighty things. And he is aiming to do mightier things still. He uses broken plans and people to do his will. Maybe that's what God was aiming for with what he thought me yesterday. Less prevention, more cure. To remind me that once I fall he hasn't changed, and his agenda is still the same.
I kind of envy Joshua.
In spite of the heavy burden on him, his passion and love for God carried him through.
I know I love God, but do I love him enough to sacrifice whatever he asks of me. To speak when my timidity says be silent. To lead when my heart says follow.
When I shared these thoughts with my fiancee she reminded me of our verse. God chose the foolish things of the world to shame the wise, the weak things of the world to shame the strong.
And she asked me if I am willing to let him be my all in all. I realized I'm okay with just him and nothing else. But I still am iffy about being used by him to be less and him being more. To do the things I am afraid to do and move out of my comfort zone to where he is. To step out of the boat.
I guess the best definition of my predicament is that I can live on mercy, but not on grace.
I want to see what it's like to walk on water, but I don't want to risk sinking.
But is that enough?
Wednesday, February 11, 2015
Joshua Chapter 4
When Israel crossed the Jordan, God told Joshua to choose and send one man from every tribe of Judah, to take a stone from the middle of the Jordan where the priests were standing. Carry them over and put them down at the place where they are staying tonight.
But when Joshua told it to the people, he added the reason. Saying that these stones from the floor of Jordan would serve as a reminder to them that God stopped the Jordan so they could cross, while the priests held the ark. Joshua knew God's plan even before God explicitly told it to him. This closeness to the heart and will of God is probably what Moses saw in Joshua from the beginning, Joshua stayed behind in the presence of God. (Exodus 33:11)
There are times when I feel 'full up' during my time with God, like I have stayed enough, or grasped his revelation, or he has spoken and is done with me. But Joshua is one challenging character. He loved the presence of God. Nothing refreshed him more than seeing Moses talk to God as if he were his friend. He never filled up, on his presence, God's presence would go with him. It was a kind of obsessive love.
This moment defined God's relationship with Joshua, and established him as a leader in the eyes of the people.
The Israelites went to Gilgal near Jericho and there Joshua set up the 12 stones as a reminder for what God has done. A testament to the power and faithfulness of their God.
Our God is still powerful, it bugs me sometimes why we don't see things like this today. I sometimes feel that to me God sometimes seems like a divine marriage, guidance, business counselor. I have seen him heal people and save people who were lost. But sometimes I realize that I make him small in my eyes.
So here's what I think I need to take away from this.
He wants me to remember, that he is strong, he is able to do new and mighty things!
He also wants me to remember the epic things he has done. Like last night, and how he used broken plans and coincidence to give me and my fiancee time together. (I know that's not like Israel crossing the Jordan. But it was an epic thing to me)
I also feel challenged by Joshua. He was so close to God, that when God told him the first step of the plan, he already knew what he had in mind. That is knowing your king.
What a man of God.
But when Joshua told it to the people, he added the reason. Saying that these stones from the floor of Jordan would serve as a reminder to them that God stopped the Jordan so they could cross, while the priests held the ark. Joshua knew God's plan even before God explicitly told it to him. This closeness to the heart and will of God is probably what Moses saw in Joshua from the beginning, Joshua stayed behind in the presence of God. (Exodus 33:11)
There are times when I feel 'full up' during my time with God, like I have stayed enough, or grasped his revelation, or he has spoken and is done with me. But Joshua is one challenging character. He loved the presence of God. Nothing refreshed him more than seeing Moses talk to God as if he were his friend. He never filled up, on his presence, God's presence would go with him. It was a kind of obsessive love.
This moment defined God's relationship with Joshua, and established him as a leader in the eyes of the people.
The Israelites went to Gilgal near Jericho and there Joshua set up the 12 stones as a reminder for what God has done. A testament to the power and faithfulness of their God.
Our God is still powerful, it bugs me sometimes why we don't see things like this today. I sometimes feel that to me God sometimes seems like a divine marriage, guidance, business counselor. I have seen him heal people and save people who were lost. But sometimes I realize that I make him small in my eyes.
So here's what I think I need to take away from this.
He wants me to remember, that he is strong, he is able to do new and mighty things!
He also wants me to remember the epic things he has done. Like last night, and how he used broken plans and coincidence to give me and my fiancee time together. (I know that's not like Israel crossing the Jordan. But it was an epic thing to me)
I also feel challenged by Joshua. He was so close to God, that when God told him the first step of the plan, he already knew what he had in mind. That is knowing your king.
What a man of God.
Joshua Chapter 3 (Response)
I have been blessed in many ways by God,
The greatest of which was salvation, or I thought it was for the longest time.
Until I realized, the greatest gift I received and keep receiving from God is love.
Is that corny and churchy? Yup! But I believe it is absolutely true.
Yesterday so many things went wrong during my day. But I just let them go. A work meeting got cancelled, a marriage counselling session I was heading for got postponed. (I didn't see this as a bad thing at the time) But god used those hurriedly changed plans for something amazing. Me and my fiancee had freed up our time for work and other things, and our cancelled plans suddenly found us together, and with free time on our hands. (Something we realized we had not had in a long time)
It seemed like our changed plans were a part of God's bigger plan.
And we talked like we used to, and then some. We shared our dreams and our fears. I ran into an old friend from school, and we stuffed our faces and talked until we lost track of time. Even on the way home, my trishaw broke down and I spent time talking with the driver and helping him fix it.
Looking back I knew yesterday that I was emotionally drained and God filled me abundantly with his grace. I felt like he was going before me in everything, and all I had to do was follow and the rivers would part. It was epic. Coincidence after coincidence and through it all, at the end of it I can't deny that god's will was done.
I absolutely believe that God was in control of all things yesterday.
I know that seems redundant because he is all powerful he is in control all the time.
But I'm just saying.
The greatest of which was salvation, or I thought it was for the longest time.
Until I realized, the greatest gift I received and keep receiving from God is love.
Is that corny and churchy? Yup! But I believe it is absolutely true.
Yesterday so many things went wrong during my day. But I just let them go. A work meeting got cancelled, a marriage counselling session I was heading for got postponed. (I didn't see this as a bad thing at the time) But god used those hurriedly changed plans for something amazing. Me and my fiancee had freed up our time for work and other things, and our cancelled plans suddenly found us together, and with free time on our hands. (Something we realized we had not had in a long time)
It seemed like our changed plans were a part of God's bigger plan.
And we talked like we used to, and then some. We shared our dreams and our fears. I ran into an old friend from school, and we stuffed our faces and talked until we lost track of time. Even on the way home, my trishaw broke down and I spent time talking with the driver and helping him fix it.
Looking back I knew yesterday that I was emotionally drained and God filled me abundantly with his grace. I felt like he was going before me in everything, and all I had to do was follow and the rivers would part. It was epic. Coincidence after coincidence and through it all, at the end of it I can't deny that god's will was done.
I absolutely believe that God was in control of all things yesterday.
I know that seems redundant because he is all powerful he is in control all the time.
But I'm just saying.
Joshua Chapter 3
Crossing the Jordan,
Joshua was about to make history, but also lead the people of Israel into the unknown. He camped on the edge for 3 days. And then the orders came out. The ark of the covenant carried by the priests will lead the way into the promised land. Follow the priests, and consecrate yourself. God is Going to do some amazing stuff!
Joshua tells the priests to go before the people with the ark, maybe he did this to keep them calm. To remind them that God goes before them, and reminded them to keep their distance.
It's here that God starts revealing his plan, Telling Joshua to send the priests with the ark into the middle of the rushing Jordan telling them to go and stand in the middle of the Jordan. With the promise. Today I'm going to show these people that I am with you, as I was with Moses.
Joshua's response was to immediately gather and tell the people what God had just told him, and even a little more. Saying this is going to be a sign of what God will do! He's going to lead you into the land across the Jordan. All the nations who now live there will be driven out before you.
Jordan suddenly became a symbol of the promised land. Over run and impossible to cross.
But as soon as the priests' feet touched the water. It gathered up in a heap... the water gathered upstream in a heap. Yup red sea repeat. God was reminding them, that he was still right there with them. And this guy is my new Moses.
From a spy to a savior. Man Joshua had come a long way. And what a spot they decided to cross the river. Right opposite Jericho. Imagine what it would have been like. The kind of tension, to see the invading force camp outside your city, across a strong river. Making plans to hold them at the bridges. Or advance when they begin to cross.
And then they put their priests in front and advance. It must have seemed comical to any general watching. But then the water stopped running. They would have freaked out! That God is coming to take our city. Forget Israel. How can we overcome their God?
Okay so what did I notice?
God honors bold and bright leadership. Joshua was a man who sought God and also knew God was the one who was leading them not him. At least that's what I think he wanted to show by sending the Ark before the people. And God honored that.
Joshua revealed to the people quickly, what God revealed to him. He didn't tarry.
The priests had guts and executed the leaders plans, even when it would have seemed like suicide to carry a heavy ark, the treasure of the people of Israel and the symbol of their God, into enemy territory across a raging river.
The priests also stood in the river upholding the symbol of God until all the people crossed over.
God cares about every last one of his people. Leave no one behind.
What God did upstream everyone harvesting down stream would have noticed. (It was harvest time, people were in the fields)
Joshua was about to make history, but also lead the people of Israel into the unknown. He camped on the edge for 3 days. And then the orders came out. The ark of the covenant carried by the priests will lead the way into the promised land. Follow the priests, and consecrate yourself. God is Going to do some amazing stuff!
Joshua tells the priests to go before the people with the ark, maybe he did this to keep them calm. To remind them that God goes before them, and reminded them to keep their distance.
It's here that God starts revealing his plan, Telling Joshua to send the priests with the ark into the middle of the rushing Jordan telling them to go and stand in the middle of the Jordan. With the promise. Today I'm going to show these people that I am with you, as I was with Moses.
Joshua's response was to immediately gather and tell the people what God had just told him, and even a little more. Saying this is going to be a sign of what God will do! He's going to lead you into the land across the Jordan. All the nations who now live there will be driven out before you.
Jordan suddenly became a symbol of the promised land. Over run and impossible to cross.
But as soon as the priests' feet touched the water. It gathered up in a heap... the water gathered upstream in a heap. Yup red sea repeat. God was reminding them, that he was still right there with them. And this guy is my new Moses.
From a spy to a savior. Man Joshua had come a long way. And what a spot they decided to cross the river. Right opposite Jericho. Imagine what it would have been like. The kind of tension, to see the invading force camp outside your city, across a strong river. Making plans to hold them at the bridges. Or advance when they begin to cross.
And then they put their priests in front and advance. It must have seemed comical to any general watching. But then the water stopped running. They would have freaked out! That God is coming to take our city. Forget Israel. How can we overcome their God?
Okay so what did I notice?
God honors bold and bright leadership. Joshua was a man who sought God and also knew God was the one who was leading them not him. At least that's what I think he wanted to show by sending the Ark before the people. And God honored that.
Joshua revealed to the people quickly, what God revealed to him. He didn't tarry.
The priests had guts and executed the leaders plans, even when it would have seemed like suicide to carry a heavy ark, the treasure of the people of Israel and the symbol of their God, into enemy territory across a raging river.
The priests also stood in the river upholding the symbol of God until all the people crossed over.
God cares about every last one of his people. Leave no one behind.
What God did upstream everyone harvesting down stream would have noticed. (It was harvest time, people were in the fields)
Joshua Chapter 2 (Response)
It's always interesting to look back and analyze a play by play. Thinking what could have been differently, asking if more preparation could have made a difference, analyzing other scenarios.
Yesterday's devotions spoke about not looking past God's ability to use anyone, and I guess that was in reference to me, as I faced a situation where I found myself utterly helpless, and unable to make a difference in the life of someone I love very much. But as we talked it over and spent time tackling the problem, I could feel the grace of God overwhelm me and give me words that began to heal the situation. It was a refreshing and tiring experience. Refreshing to feel God use me, tiring emotionally. I already feel vulnerable and have noticed that I am more tempted. Or rather more susceptible to temptation, which is not a good thing considering I will be going for another potentially emotionally draining meeting tonight. - Which was just cancelled.
GOD IS GOOD! ALL THE TIME!
As for the latter portion of the teaching on spies to investigate the land we're invading, (Gathering information on the new things we're trying), it actually just gave me a spark of interesting insight. Into how we should gather information and solve the problem I was being strong and courageous about two days ago. Spies, what an idea!
Well I guess we'd see how that goes in a day or two. It strikes me how the word of God is not just teaching, but wisdom and insight into how to tackle complex situations.
The strangest thing is I was kind of bummed out about writing this today, because I felt like God hadn't used what he taught me, but rather his spirit within me to accomplish what he had planned. The strange thing is I only realized what God was saying in hind sight and I see how him refreshing those ideas in me yesterday made a huge impact on how i viewed the situations I faced as they came about.
Now I see that all things really do fall into place in his time.
Yesterday's devotions spoke about not looking past God's ability to use anyone, and I guess that was in reference to me, as I faced a situation where I found myself utterly helpless, and unable to make a difference in the life of someone I love very much. But as we talked it over and spent time tackling the problem, I could feel the grace of God overwhelm me and give me words that began to heal the situation. It was a refreshing and tiring experience. Refreshing to feel God use me, tiring emotionally. I already feel vulnerable and have noticed that I am more tempted. Or rather more susceptible to temptation, which is not a good thing considering I will be going for another potentially emotionally draining meeting tonight. - Which was just cancelled.
GOD IS GOOD! ALL THE TIME!
As for the latter portion of the teaching on spies to investigate the land we're invading, (Gathering information on the new things we're trying), it actually just gave me a spark of interesting insight. Into how we should gather information and solve the problem I was being strong and courageous about two days ago. Spies, what an idea!
Well I guess we'd see how that goes in a day or two. It strikes me how the word of God is not just teaching, but wisdom and insight into how to tackle complex situations.
The strangest thing is I was kind of bummed out about writing this today, because I felt like God hadn't used what he taught me, but rather his spirit within me to accomplish what he had planned. The strange thing is I only realized what God was saying in hind sight and I see how him refreshing those ideas in me yesterday made a huge impact on how i viewed the situations I faced as they came about.
Now I see that all things really do fall into place in his time.
Tuesday, February 10, 2015
Joshua Chapter 2
What's interesting about what Joshua does next is, that he sends spies into the land across the Jordan especially Jericho. I find this kind of interesting because this is exactly how Joshua came to the fore, where he met Moses, and Moses saw something special about him and changed his name to Joshua, from Hoshea. (Numbers 13:16) In fact the only difference is that in that instance God directed Moses, and in this one Joshua makes the call on his own.
So I think this would have been quite a nostalgic moment for Joshua, and unlike when he went into the land and had to convince the people that with God on their side they could take possession of the land, his spies came back with testimonies of God's provision and protection.
Guiding them to a prostitutes house, and how she protected them and helped them escape. While also telling them how to escape and that the people of their land were terrified of them, and how they escaped pharaoh and two kings who opposed them. Asking only that they spare her family.
Phew! That was a mouth full.
Honestly though it amazes me how accommodating our God is. He spared and chose a prostitute to be Israel's foot in the door into Jericho. Which is kinda of full of me to make that assumption considering he caught me while I was a sinner and atheist and and now calls me friend.
But from another point of view, Rahab was perfect, no one would have questioned at first why the spies went to her. She knew God and lived in the perfect location to plat an escape. So many things made her the perfect person.
So how does this apply to me?
I think partly it's a testament to how God uses the broken and lost for his Glory if they are willing to acknowledge Him.
In terms of leadership I think Joshua's attitude and direction in Identifying Jericho (v1) and sending spies into the land is a testament to him acknowledging that he needs to be Strong and courageous. And using not only what he saw in Moses but also his own experiences, and common sense.
Anyone else who was told to be strong and courageous might have just taken a troop of soldiers and charged the nearest walled city.
That actually seems more heroic to me somehow.
Maybe I have more to learn from this...
So I think this would have been quite a nostalgic moment for Joshua, and unlike when he went into the land and had to convince the people that with God on their side they could take possession of the land, his spies came back with testimonies of God's provision and protection.
Guiding them to a prostitutes house, and how she protected them and helped them escape. While also telling them how to escape and that the people of their land were terrified of them, and how they escaped pharaoh and two kings who opposed them. Asking only that they spare her family.
Phew! That was a mouth full.
Honestly though it amazes me how accommodating our God is. He spared and chose a prostitute to be Israel's foot in the door into Jericho. Which is kinda of full of me to make that assumption considering he caught me while I was a sinner and atheist and and now calls me friend.
But from another point of view, Rahab was perfect, no one would have questioned at first why the spies went to her. She knew God and lived in the perfect location to plat an escape. So many things made her the perfect person.
So how does this apply to me?
I think partly it's a testament to how God uses the broken and lost for his Glory if they are willing to acknowledge Him.
In terms of leadership I think Joshua's attitude and direction in Identifying Jericho (v1) and sending spies into the land is a testament to him acknowledging that he needs to be Strong and courageous. And using not only what he saw in Moses but also his own experiences, and common sense.
Anyone else who was told to be strong and courageous might have just taken a troop of soldiers and charged the nearest walled city.
That actually seems more heroic to me somehow.
Maybe I have more to learn from this...
Monday, February 9, 2015
Joshua Chapter 1 (Response)
Now here's where things get difficult to interpret and understand,
And seeing God's hand becomes part faith, part seeing past the doubt.
So almost immediately after I made the post, one of the friends of mine who I volunteer with came and met with me and spoke to me about one of the programs we're planning for the year. And his doubts as to the effectiveness, and timing of the programs. And almost immediately, I began questioning what we decided, and I remembered what I just studied, "Be strong and courageous."
The thought itself completely changed my perspective and we started looking at how we could make it work, rather than scrapping it before it even began. The ultimate decision is left more in God's hands trusting that he will make a way, but I think that's kind of the point really.
What's interesting is the idea that maybe God was preparing me to not let the idea be scrapped. Or maybe it's just me reading into the idea. A self fulfilling prophecy of sorts. I think I will be wrestling with the whole self fulfilling prophecy idea for a while. The heart of the matter really is if I'm willing to believe that what I'm seeing is God at work, and me not imagining him at work...
Like in the evening we actually had an epic bible study on tithing, with so many of us sharing our thoughts doubts and experiences. It has been a while since I've been so encouraged by a corporate bible study. (But considering this was part of the day planned I'm not sure if it was a part of God enacting my study of the word, or just God being epic as we entered his word)
This is kind of where this morning comes in.
Last night before when I turned in, and this morning I took the time to pray for my luggers, (The young guys I disciple) my fiancee (The young lady that disciples me) my family, and my boss. The interesting thing is that I actually felt like I should follow up and see if God had answered my prayers in real and tangible ways. when I was about to call up my fiancee, turns out that he had actually been talking with her about what I had been praying about, and she called me first, which was a surprise.
But when I called one of my luggers, turns out he wasn't doing too well in what I had prayed about. But we talked and had a good chat, made my day actually, but that's usually par for the course with him. He's a really great guy.
Then when switching buses I ran into one of my other luggers on the bus, and we caught up on what's been going on with him, and we walked and talked until we reached my office.
All this before I even got to work.
I personally don't believe in coincidence. But I'll leave that for you to decide.
And seeing God's hand becomes part faith, part seeing past the doubt.
So almost immediately after I made the post, one of the friends of mine who I volunteer with came and met with me and spoke to me about one of the programs we're planning for the year. And his doubts as to the effectiveness, and timing of the programs. And almost immediately, I began questioning what we decided, and I remembered what I just studied, "Be strong and courageous."
The thought itself completely changed my perspective and we started looking at how we could make it work, rather than scrapping it before it even began. The ultimate decision is left more in God's hands trusting that he will make a way, but I think that's kind of the point really.
What's interesting is the idea that maybe God was preparing me to not let the idea be scrapped. Or maybe it's just me reading into the idea. A self fulfilling prophecy of sorts. I think I will be wrestling with the whole self fulfilling prophecy idea for a while. The heart of the matter really is if I'm willing to believe that what I'm seeing is God at work, and me not imagining him at work...
Like in the evening we actually had an epic bible study on tithing, with so many of us sharing our thoughts doubts and experiences. It has been a while since I've been so encouraged by a corporate bible study. (But considering this was part of the day planned I'm not sure if it was a part of God enacting my study of the word, or just God being epic as we entered his word)
This is kind of where this morning comes in.
Last night before when I turned in, and this morning I took the time to pray for my luggers, (The young guys I disciple) my fiancee (The young lady that disciples me) my family, and my boss. The interesting thing is that I actually felt like I should follow up and see if God had answered my prayers in real and tangible ways. when I was about to call up my fiancee, turns out that he had actually been talking with her about what I had been praying about, and she called me first, which was a surprise.
But when I called one of my luggers, turns out he wasn't doing too well in what I had prayed about. But we talked and had a good chat, made my day actually, but that's usually par for the course with him. He's a really great guy.
Then when switching buses I ran into one of my other luggers on the bus, and we caught up on what's been going on with him, and we walked and talked until we reached my office.
All this before I even got to work.
I personally don't believe in coincidence. But I'll leave that for you to decide.
Joshua Chapter 1
The book of Joshua begins with a death and a promise.
I think you could call it a huge split in the old testament, the end of Moses, and the passing off of his legacy onto his assistant Joshua. Now the book starts with God reminding Joshua that he would be with him like he was with Moses.
It's here that God gives Joshua something for him to do and uphold. Joshua be strong and courageous' cause you're going to cause this people to inherit the land I promised to their fathers. And then he goes a step further, be strong and VERY COURAGEOUS! and keep the law that Moses commanded him to keep. (v6-7) Meditate on it day and night, this is the key to your success. (v9) And Haven't I already commanded you before? be strong and courageous, don't be frightened.
It strikes me how God encouraged Joshua. It was more of a Bro look at all I accomplished through Moses. Now I'm giving that power to you. He's trained you, I'm going to be with you. And I promise you, you're gonna enter the promised land. Haven't I been with you, walked with you, commanded you? Don't be afraid!
And Josh's first act is to go through the camp telling people to get ready, we're crossing the Jordan to the land of promise, we're heading for the sunrise! (v15) The interesting thing is that the people respond in the same way God responded. We'll follow you like we did moses, just be strong and courageous.
There's two things that strike me about this section of scripture.
1. As a leader what God was telling Joshua, he was also preparing Israel to obey.
2. Joshua's role was three fold, remember Moses' I'm going to bless you like I did him, keep close to the word, don't get freaked out, be bold strong and courageous.
Okay so now how do you turn this practical?
God is preparing his people, to follow what you're leading them to.
But I need to be strong and courageous in my decisions.
Remember that God has done great things through my friends and leaders.
And keep close to the word.
Let's see how it Goes!
Amen.
I think you could call it a huge split in the old testament, the end of Moses, and the passing off of his legacy onto his assistant Joshua. Now the book starts with God reminding Joshua that he would be with him like he was with Moses.
It's here that God gives Joshua something for him to do and uphold. Joshua be strong and courageous' cause you're going to cause this people to inherit the land I promised to their fathers. And then he goes a step further, be strong and VERY COURAGEOUS! and keep the law that Moses commanded him to keep. (v6-7) Meditate on it day and night, this is the key to your success. (v9) And Haven't I already commanded you before? be strong and courageous, don't be frightened.
It strikes me how God encouraged Joshua. It was more of a Bro look at all I accomplished through Moses. Now I'm giving that power to you. He's trained you, I'm going to be with you. And I promise you, you're gonna enter the promised land. Haven't I been with you, walked with you, commanded you? Don't be afraid!
And Josh's first act is to go through the camp telling people to get ready, we're crossing the Jordan to the land of promise, we're heading for the sunrise! (v15) The interesting thing is that the people respond in the same way God responded. We'll follow you like we did moses, just be strong and courageous.
There's two things that strike me about this section of scripture.
1. As a leader what God was telling Joshua, he was also preparing Israel to obey.
2. Joshua's role was three fold, remember Moses' I'm going to bless you like I did him, keep close to the word, don't get freaked out, be bold strong and courageous.
Okay so now how do you turn this practical?
God is preparing his people, to follow what you're leading them to.
But I need to be strong and courageous in my decisions.
Remember that God has done great things through my friends and leaders.
And keep close to the word.
Let's see how it Goes!
Amen.
Requiem to Self
So what is a Requiem to Self.
Requiem to self is going to be my devotional for the next few weeks.
30% Study 30% Looking For God to open doors 40% Action when that moment comes.
I will place a portion of scripture, and search out a manner in which I can put it into action.
My hope is to see God open opportunities to teach.
One every day, no specific length, either on the scripture, or how he opened the opportunity for me to put what he taught me into action. Or if he hasn't, or if I failed to take the opportunity, to journal the after math of disobedience.
As such this is not just a devotional, so much as a journal, and a social experiment of sorts. Between me God and the world.
So this should be interesting.
I will be doing portions of scripture from the Old Testament histories, law and the prophets.
I will also do a section from the gospels, epistles and revelations.
And finally a section from Psalms, Proverbs and Song of Songs' for kicks.
I will select a section of scripture or a short book, and share what section I studied, what stirred my thinking and how I feel I can apply it, finally praying for God to open the opportunity to put into practice.
I think it will be interesting to see how God speaks through these very different sections of scripture to modern issues and problems.
And if this actually ends up as a requiem to myself, that in knowing him more, that I would be crucified with Christ and no longer live, but be changed until it is Christ shining through me.
I don't think I need to mention that everything I write will be not only personal and biased but also challenging for me to put into words. I promise to do my best to give an honest opinion and share my thoughts as I think them, and (God willing) his direction as he leads me.
I hope and pray for the strength to see this through.
The Old Self.
Requiem to self is going to be my devotional for the next few weeks.
30% Study 30% Looking For God to open doors 40% Action when that moment comes.
I will place a portion of scripture, and search out a manner in which I can put it into action.
My hope is to see God open opportunities to teach.
One every day, no specific length, either on the scripture, or how he opened the opportunity for me to put what he taught me into action. Or if he hasn't, or if I failed to take the opportunity, to journal the after math of disobedience.
As such this is not just a devotional, so much as a journal, and a social experiment of sorts. Between me God and the world.
So this should be interesting.
I will be doing portions of scripture from the Old Testament histories, law and the prophets.
I will also do a section from the gospels, epistles and revelations.
And finally a section from Psalms, Proverbs and Song of Songs' for kicks.
I will select a section of scripture or a short book, and share what section I studied, what stirred my thinking and how I feel I can apply it, finally praying for God to open the opportunity to put into practice.
I think it will be interesting to see how God speaks through these very different sections of scripture to modern issues and problems.
And if this actually ends up as a requiem to myself, that in knowing him more, that I would be crucified with Christ and no longer live, but be changed until it is Christ shining through me.
I don't think I need to mention that everything I write will be not only personal and biased but also challenging for me to put into words. I promise to do my best to give an honest opinion and share my thoughts as I think them, and (God willing) his direction as he leads me.
I hope and pray for the strength to see this through.
The Old Self.
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