Daily Bible Reading for March 29, 2020

Today my Bible reading plan closes out the book of Joshua with chapters 22-24.

In Chapter 22, Joshua calls together the Reubenites, Gadites and the half-tribe of Manasseh to commend them for keeping their word to ensure the remaining nine and one-half tribes take possession of the land by joining them to drive out the nations. Because they kept obeyed Moses’ condition, they were now able to return to their land on the east of the Jordan.

When they arrived, they built a large altar by the Jordan so that when the Israelites on the west side of the Jordan heard of it, wanted to go to war against them for their rebellion. Once the leaders explained that this altar was not for burnt offerings and sacrifice but to serve as a witness between them that they too are the LORD’s and perform service to the LORD, they were satisfied.

In Chapter 23, Joshua reminds the Israelites that it was God who has fought their battles and that God will drive out the remaining nations that dwell among them. Joshua warned them not to mix with them because they might turn from the LORD, rather, he exhorted them to cling to the LORD, or God will allow them to perish in the land.

“And you have seen all that the LORD your God has done to all these nations for your sake, for it is the LORD your God who has fought for you.” Vs. 3

In Chapter 24, Joshua rehearses their history beginning with their pagan fathers served other gods, and how God took Abraham and brought him through the land of Canaan, giving him his offspring, Isaac, Jacob. Interestingly, God points out: “I took, I gave,  I sent, I plagued Egypt, I delivered, I gave you a land.” Joshua uses their rich history to tell them to fear God, and asks them to choose who they will serve.

“Now therefore fear the LORD and serve him in sincerity and in faithfulness….Choose this day whom you will serve…” Vss. 14a, 15b

Joshua dies and is buried in their land and Joseph’s bones are buried with his people.

My Thoughts On This:  God is faithful. He is the Great I Am and leaves none of his promises unfulfilled. No detail is too small that it will not be remembered (Joseph’s bones – Genesis 50:24-25 and the remaining nations to be driven out – Joshua 13:6). This gives great comfort that we can trust God to accomplish all of his purposes, and none can be thwarted. Also, God doesn’t give to us without us having a responsibility for obedience to him.

Let’s read the Book!