Joshua 20:1-9
Designate the cities of refuge：anyone who kills a person accidentally and unintentionally may flee there and find protection from the avenger of blood.
There are six cities of refuge among Israel.
Six cities, three to the east of the Jordan, three to the west - all belonging to the Levites - are designated 'cities of refuge', to protect those who caused accidental death from subsequent vengeance and blood-feud.
Why?
God cares each life of innocent.
How?
Blessed is the people of the Lord.
Sunday, January 31, 2016
Saturday, January 30, 2016
Be humble before the Lord and men
Joshua 19:1-51
Simeon inheritance lay within the territory of Judah. It included 13 cities.
Zebulun inheritance had 13 cities.
Issachar inheritance had 16 cities.
Asher inheritance had 24 cities, but 7 cities haven't gotten it.
Naphtali inheritance had 19 cities, but 2 cities haven't gotten it.
Dan inheritance had 19 cities, 1 city haven't gotten it.
Joshua had the town he asked for - Timnath Serah in the hill country of Ephraim.
Simeon's land, further south, overlapped with Judah's, and Simeon became absorbed into the larger tribe.
Dan, assigned land which brought them up against the Philistines and other tough enemies in the south, failed to conquer it and eventually settled in the far north.
The division is completed with the gift of Timnath-serah to Joshua.
Why?
Great man Joshua got his gift after assigned all tribes had their inheritance. Great man is humble and get the gift for him later.
How?
Be humble and let others have the profit of their own, For God is good he will reward us when we follow him completely. Humble is the altitude, humble is not weak but strong.
Simeon inheritance lay within the territory of Judah. It included 13 cities.
Zebulun inheritance had 13 cities.
Issachar inheritance had 16 cities.
Asher inheritance had 24 cities, but 7 cities haven't gotten it.
Naphtali inheritance had 19 cities, but 2 cities haven't gotten it.
Dan inheritance had 19 cities, 1 city haven't gotten it.
Joshua had the town he asked for - Timnath Serah in the hill country of Ephraim.
Simeon's land, further south, overlapped with Judah's, and Simeon became absorbed into the larger tribe.
Dan, assigned land which brought them up against the Philistines and other tough enemies in the south, failed to conquer it and eventually settled in the far north.
The division is completed with the gift of Timnath-serah to Joshua.
Why?
Great man Joshua got his gift after assigned all tribes had their inheritance. Great man is humble and get the gift for him later.
How?
Be humble and let others have the profit of their own, For God is good he will reward us when we follow him completely. Humble is the altitude, humble is not weak but strong.
Friday, January 29, 2016
How long will you wait
Joshua 18:1-28
Joshua said to the Israelites: “How long will you wait before you begin to take possession of the land that the Lord, the God of your ancestors, has given you?
Banjamin had 26 cities and their villages.
The Israelites gather at Shiloh, the land is surveyed and Joshua distributes the land among the seven remaining tribes.
Banjamin's land: Jerusalem seems to have been partly on Judah's land, partly on Benjamin's.
Why?
Not one of all the good promises the Lord your God gave you has failed.
How?
Do not wait go and get the territory of the Lord gave me. Do not just listen but do it.
Joshua said to the Israelites: “How long will you wait before you begin to take possession of the land that the Lord, the God of your ancestors, has given you?
Banjamin had 26 cities and their villages.
The Israelites gather at Shiloh, the land is surveyed and Joshua distributes the land among the seven remaining tribes.
Banjamin's land: Jerusalem seems to have been partly on Judah's land, partly on Benjamin's.
Why?
Not one of all the good promises the Lord your God gave you has failed.
How?
Do not wait go and get the territory of the Lord gave me. Do not just listen but do it.
Thursday, January 28, 2016
Get the promised land
Joshua 17:1-18
This was the allotment for the tribe of Manasseh as Joseph’s firstborn.
The territory of Manasseh extended from Asher to Mikmethath east of Shechem. The boundary ran southward from there to include the people living at En Tappuah.
But Joshua said to the tribes of Joseph—to Ephraim and Manasseh—“You are numerous and very powerful. You will have not only one allotment but the forested hill country as well. Clear it, and its farthest limits will be yours; though the Canaanites have chariots fitted with iron and though they are strong, you can drive them out".
Why?
The horses and chariots of the Canaanites holding the plains deterred them.
Manasseh had power to drive Canaanites out, but they had not faith to the Lord, they afraid the iron chariots.
Promised land needs courage and faith to take it. It needs fight and struggle to get it.
How?
Be courage to get the promised land.
This was the allotment for the tribe of Manasseh as Joseph’s firstborn.
The territory of Manasseh extended from Asher to Mikmethath east of Shechem. The boundary ran southward from there to include the people living at En Tappuah.
But Joshua said to the tribes of Joseph—to Ephraim and Manasseh—“You are numerous and very powerful. You will have not only one allotment but the forested hill country as well. Clear it, and its farthest limits will be yours; though the Canaanites have chariots fitted with iron and though they are strong, you can drive them out".
Why?
The horses and chariots of the Canaanites holding the plains deterred them.
Manasseh had power to drive Canaanites out, but they had not faith to the Lord, they afraid the iron chariots.
Promised land needs courage and faith to take it. It needs fight and struggle to get it.
How?
Be courage to get the promised land.
Wednesday, January 27, 2016
According to its clans
Joshua 16:1-10
This was the inheritance of the tribe of the XXX, according to its clans.
They did not dislodge the Canaanites living in Gezer; to this day the Canaanites live among the people of Ephraim but are required to do forced labor.
Ephraim and Manasseh. These tribes were to have extended their territory by clearance and conquest. But the horses and chariots of the Canaanites holding the plains deterred them.
How?
According to the choice and love of God so we can be sons of the Lord!
Praise to the Lord Almighty!
This was the inheritance of the tribe of the XXX, according to its clans.
They did not dislodge the Canaanites living in Gezer; to this day the Canaanites live among the people of Ephraim but are required to do forced labor.
Ephraim and Manasseh. These tribes were to have extended their territory by clearance and conquest. But the horses and chariots of the Canaanites holding the plains deterred them.
How?
According to the choice and love of God so we can be sons of the Lord!
Praise to the Lord Almighty!
Tuesday, January 26, 2016
The territory of inheritance from the Lord
Joshua 15:1-63
The allotment for the tribe of Judah, according to its clans, extended down to the territory of Edom, to the Desert of Zin in the extreme south.
Judah's cities included those of Calab - and also Jerusalem, or part of it. But the city was still unconquered much later, at the time of writing.
Judah took the largest territory in the west of Jordan. It is the mind of the Lord.
Why?
Big or small is chosen by the Lord, anyway it is good to us, and it is my way.
Obey the command of the Lord and trust in Him is the way of man.
How?
May my way is your way, my mind is your mind, blessed be with me from the Lord. The territory of inheritance from the Lord.
The allotment for the tribe of Judah, according to its clans, extended down to the territory of Edom, to the Desert of Zin in the extreme south.
Judah's cities included those of Calab - and also Jerusalem, or part of it. But the city was still unconquered much later, at the time of writing.
Judah took the largest territory in the west of Jordan. It is the mind of the Lord.
Why?
Big or small is chosen by the Lord, anyway it is good to us, and it is my way.
Obey the command of the Lord and trust in Him is the way of man.
How?
May my way is your way, my mind is your mind, blessed be with me from the Lord. The territory of inheritance from the Lord.
Monday, January 25, 2016
Followed the Lord wholeheartedly
Joshua 14:6-15
Joshua blessed Caleb son of Jephunneh and gave him Hebron as his inheritance.
So Hebron has belonged to Caleb son of Jephunneh the Kenizzite. ever since, because he followed the Lord, the God of Israel, wholeheartedly.
Calab said to Joshua "just as the Lord promised, he has kept me alive for forty-five years since the time he said this to Moses, while Israel moved about in the wilderness. So here I am today, eighty-five years old! I am still as strong today as the day Moses sent me out.
Calab claims Hebon. Forty-five years after the spy episode Caleb remains a man of unwavering faith. There are still Anakim survivors to deal with. Hebron became Levite property, but Caleb retained the surrounding land and villages.
Why?
The unwavering faith to the Lord, God blessed Caleb alive for 85 years old and still strong and vigorous as 45 years ago.
Wholeheartedly: Don't care worse situation in the world but focus on the Lord and trust in the Lord.
How?
Followed the Lord wholeheartedly is the key to get the inheritance of the Lord.
Joshua blessed Caleb son of Jephunneh and gave him Hebron as his inheritance.
So Hebron has belonged to Caleb son of Jephunneh the Kenizzite. ever since, because he followed the Lord, the God of Israel, wholeheartedly.
Calab said to Joshua "just as the Lord promised, he has kept me alive for forty-five years since the time he said this to Moses, while Israel moved about in the wilderness. So here I am today, eighty-five years old! I am still as strong today as the day Moses sent me out.
Calab claims Hebon. Forty-five years after the spy episode Caleb remains a man of unwavering faith. There are still Anakim survivors to deal with. Hebron became Levite property, but Caleb retained the surrounding land and villages.
Why?
The unwavering faith to the Lord, God blessed Caleb alive for 85 years old and still strong and vigorous as 45 years ago.
Wholeheartedly: Don't care worse situation in the world but focus on the Lord and trust in the Lord.
How?
Followed the Lord wholeheartedly is the key to get the inheritance of the Lord.
Sunday, January 24, 2016
My territory from the Lord.
Joshua 13:1-14:5
The other half of Manasseh,the Reubenites and the Gadites had received the inheritance that Moses had given them east of the Jordan, as he, the servant of the Lord, had assigned it to them.
But to the tribe of Levi, Moses had given no inheritance; the Lord, the God of Israel, is their inheritance, as he promised them.
Levites received no share of the land but only towns to live in, with pastureland for their flocks and herds.
Their inheritances were assigned by lot to the nine and a half tribes, as the Lord had commanded through Moses.
Not all the land allocated had been completely subdued- and not every tribes realized its ideal by conquering all its allotted territory.
In several places, as in the previous chapters, the writer comments on the situation in his own day.
1-7: the land still unconquered includes the Mediterranean coast lands and land in the north. But Israel never controlled Phoenicia.
13:8-33 concerns the land east of Jordan already allotted to Reuben, Gad and Manasseh in Moses' time.
14:1-5 Concerning the dividing of the land west of Jordan among the remaining nine and a half tribes.
How?
The promised lands are haven't conquered, it needs faith and courage to get it by themselves. So as to my territory from the Lord.
The other half of Manasseh,the Reubenites and the Gadites had received the inheritance that Moses had given them east of the Jordan, as he, the servant of the Lord, had assigned it to them.
But to the tribe of Levi, Moses had given no inheritance; the Lord, the God of Israel, is their inheritance, as he promised them.
Levites received no share of the land but only towns to live in, with pastureland for their flocks and herds.
Their inheritances were assigned by lot to the nine and a half tribes, as the Lord had commanded through Moses.
Not all the land allocated had been completely subdued- and not every tribes realized its ideal by conquering all its allotted territory.
In several places, as in the previous chapters, the writer comments on the situation in his own day.
1-7: the land still unconquered includes the Mediterranean coast lands and land in the north. But Israel never controlled Phoenicia.
13:8-33 concerns the land east of Jordan already allotted to Reuben, Gad and Manasseh in Moses' time.
14:1-5 Concerning the dividing of the land west of Jordan among the remaining nine and a half tribes.
How?
The promised lands are haven't conquered, it needs faith and courage to get it by themselves. So as to my territory from the Lord.
Saturday, January 23, 2016
Joshua defeated 31 kings in all.
Joshua 12:1-24
Joshua gave their lands as an inheritance to the tribes of Israel according to their tribal divisions. The lands included the hill country, the western foothills, the Arabah, the mountain slopes, the wilderness and the Negev.
Moses defeated Sihon king of the Amorites, Og king of Bashan.
Joshua and the Israelites conquered on the west side of the Jordan, defeated 31 kings in all.
V1-6 rehearsed the earlier victories east of the Jordan under Moses.
V 7-24 list 31 kings of south, central and northern Cannan defeated under Joshua. The list rounds off the section on the conquest.
Under blessing of the Lord, Joshua ruled over the west side of Jordan and gave lands to the tribes of Israel according to their tribal divisions.
How?
There is a rule that according to the word of the Lord will be blessed.
Joshua gave their lands as an inheritance to the tribes of Israel according to their tribal divisions. The lands included the hill country, the western foothills, the Arabah, the mountain slopes, the wilderness and the Negev.
Moses defeated Sihon king of the Amorites, Og king of Bashan.
Joshua and the Israelites conquered on the west side of the Jordan, defeated 31 kings in all.
V1-6 rehearsed the earlier victories east of the Jordan under Moses.
V 7-24 list 31 kings of south, central and northern Cannan defeated under Joshua. The list rounds off the section on the conquest.
Under blessing of the Lord, Joshua ruled over the west side of Jordan and gave lands to the tribes of Israel according to their tribal divisions.
How?
There is a rule that according to the word of the Lord will be blessed.
Friday, January 22, 2016
Joshua left nothing undone of all that the Lord commanded Moses
Joshua 11:1-23
As the Lord commanded his servant Moses, so Moses commanded Joshua, and Joshua did it; he left nothing undone of all that the Lord commanded Moses.
So Joshua took the entire land, just as the Lord had directed Moses, and he gave it as an inheritance to Israel according to their tribal divisions. Then the land had rest from war.
The powerful king of Haor, commanding his vassals, assembles an even more formidable alliance than that of the south. But with no more success. Although the strategic cities were in Israel's hands within a short time of their entry into Cannon, mopping-up(掃蕩) operations took a great deal longer.
How?
Obey and do it as the Lord commanded us is the way of blessing. To be a real Christian.
As the Lord commanded his servant Moses, so Moses commanded Joshua, and Joshua did it; he left nothing undone of all that the Lord commanded Moses.
So Joshua took the entire land, just as the Lord had directed Moses, and he gave it as an inheritance to Israel according to their tribal divisions. Then the land had rest from war.
The powerful king of Haor, commanding his vassals, assembles an even more formidable alliance than that of the south. But with no more success. Although the strategic cities were in Israel's hands within a short time of their entry into Cannon, mopping-up(掃蕩) operations took a great deal longer.
How?
Obey and do it as the Lord commanded us is the way of blessing. To be a real Christian.
Thursday, January 21, 2016
Surely the Lord was fighting for Israel
Joshua 10:1-43
After an all-night march from Gilgal, Joshua took them by surprise.
The Lord threw them into confusion before Israel, so Joshua and the Israelites defeated them completely at Gibeon. Israel pursued them along the road going up to Beth Horon and cut them down all the way to Azekah and Makkedah.
Joshua subdued the whole region, including the hill country, the Negev,the western foothills and the mountain slopes, together with all their kings. He left no survivors. He totally destroyed all who breathed, just as the Lord, the God of Israel, had commanded.
Surely the Lord was fighting for Israel!
The treaty with the Gebeonites promptly involves Israel in war. All five Amorite kings are killed at Makkedah and their city-states (all except Jerusalem) destroyed in the campaign following the rout at Beth-horon. All the strategic cities of the south fall before Joshua's army.
Israel now controls the land from Kadesh-barnea in the south to Gaza on the west, and as far north as Gibeon.
The long day is usually taken as an extension of daylight, but it may be a prolongation of darkness. An eclipse of the sun has been suggested.
How?
Surely the Lord was fighting for us when we follow his command.
After an all-night march from Gilgal, Joshua took them by surprise.
The Lord threw them into confusion before Israel, so Joshua and the Israelites defeated them completely at Gibeon. Israel pursued them along the road going up to Beth Horon and cut them down all the way to Azekah and Makkedah.
Joshua subdued the whole region, including the hill country, the Negev,the western foothills and the mountain slopes, together with all their kings. He left no survivors. He totally destroyed all who breathed, just as the Lord, the God of Israel, had commanded.
Surely the Lord was fighting for Israel!
The treaty with the Gebeonites promptly involves Israel in war. All five Amorite kings are killed at Makkedah and their city-states (all except Jerusalem) destroyed in the campaign following the rout at Beth-horon. All the strategic cities of the south fall before Joshua's army.
Israel now controls the land from Kadesh-barnea in the south to Gaza on the west, and as far north as Gibeon.
The long day is usually taken as an extension of daylight, but it may be a prolongation of darkness. An eclipse of the sun has been suggested.
How?
Surely the Lord was fighting for us when we follow his command.
Wednesday, January 20, 2016
Be faithful before the Lord and keep the swore word
Joshua 9:16-27
God is not consulted. And Israel cannot draw back from a treaty sealed in friendship (the meal eaten together). The worst they can do is reduce the Gibeonites to salve status.
King Saul, 200 years later, tried to destroy the Gibeonites and Go punished the nation for breaking their word.. King David allowed the Gebeonites to kill seven of Saul's sons to set the matter right.
So Joshua saved them from the Israelites, and they did not kill them. That day he made the Gibeonites woodcutters and water carriers for the assembly, to provide for the needs of the altar of the Lord at the place the Lord would choose. And that is what they are to this day.
How?
Obey the swore words before the Lord, for God is faithful and Holy.
God is not consulted. And Israel cannot draw back from a treaty sealed in friendship (the meal eaten together). The worst they can do is reduce the Gibeonites to salve status.
King Saul, 200 years later, tried to destroy the Gibeonites and Go punished the nation for breaking their word.. King David allowed the Gebeonites to kill seven of Saul's sons to set the matter right.
So Joshua saved them from the Israelites, and they did not kill them. That day he made the Gibeonites woodcutters and water carriers for the assembly, to provide for the needs of the altar of the Lord at the place the Lord would choose. And that is what they are to this day.
How?
Obey the swore words before the Lord, for God is faithful and Holy.
Tuesday, January 19, 2016
Inquire of the Lord
Joshua 9:1-15
All of the people alone the entire cost of the Great Sea are heard what Joshua had done to Jericho and Ai. Gibeon restored to a ruse(謀略) made a treaty with Israelite.
The men of Israel sampled their provisions but did not inquire of the Lord. Then Joshua made a treaty of peace with them to let them live, and the leaders of the assembly ratified(ratified ) it by oath.
Gibeon was an important city about 8km north of Jerusalem. The Israelite had been forewarned against an alliance with local people. But the Gebenites employ such cunning (even to the pretence that news of the recent victories at Jericho and Ai has not reached them), that they not only get their treaty but include three other cities too.
Why?
Enemy may do any ruse to against us, so we need to ask the Lord, for the Lord knows everything. It is the smart way to be a Christian.
Sometimes provisions may obscure our heart and mind.
How?
Be aware the trick of Satan and evil men, always inquire of the Lord.
All of the people alone the entire cost of the Great Sea are heard what Joshua had done to Jericho and Ai. Gibeon restored to a ruse(謀略) made a treaty with Israelite.
The men of Israel sampled their provisions but did not inquire of the Lord. Then Joshua made a treaty of peace with them to let them live, and the leaders of the assembly ratified(ratified ) it by oath.
Gibeon was an important city about 8km north of Jerusalem. The Israelite had been forewarned against an alliance with local people. But the Gebenites employ such cunning (even to the pretence that news of the recent victories at Jericho and Ai has not reached them), that they not only get their treaty but include three other cities too.
Why?
Enemy may do any ruse to against us, so we need to ask the Lord, for the Lord knows everything. It is the smart way to be a Christian.
Sometimes provisions may obscure our heart and mind.
How?
Be aware the trick of Satan and evil men, always inquire of the Lord.
Monday, January 18, 2016
Joshua spent that night with the people
Joshua 8:1-35
Joshua spent that night with the people before they attack Ai. To encourage Israelite.
Not a man remained in Ai or Bethel who did not go after Israel. They left the city open and went in pursuit of Israel.
But Israel did carry off for themselves the livestock and plunder of this city, as the Lord had instructed Joshua.
Then Joshua built on Mount Ebal an altar to the Lord, the God of Israel, as Moses the servant of the Lord had commanded the Israelite. He built it according to what is written in the Book of the Law of Moses—an altar of uncut stones, on which no iron tool had been used.
Afterward, Joshua read all the words of the law—the blessings and the curses—just as it is written in the Book of the Law.
Why?
The evidence of the mount at Et-Tell is difficult to accord with the biblical record here - which suggests that this may not in fact be the correct site of Ai. But see 'Cities of the conquest'. Joshua's flight and ambush strategy makes capital out of Israel's previous defeat.
From Ai, Joshua moves 32 km north to establish himself at Shechem, in the valley between Mts Ebal and Gerizim. In God's name he takes possession of the land. And the covenant is sworn as Moses had commanded.
Stay with people may encourage his people, we are family.
How?
Joshua listen to the Lord and encourage his people, so he is very good leader of Israel.
Joshua spent that night with the people before they attack Ai. To encourage Israelite.
Not a man remained in Ai or Bethel who did not go after Israel. They left the city open and went in pursuit of Israel.
But Israel did carry off for themselves the livestock and plunder of this city, as the Lord had instructed Joshua.
Then Joshua built on Mount Ebal an altar to the Lord, the God of Israel, as Moses the servant of the Lord had commanded the Israelite. He built it according to what is written in the Book of the Law of Moses—an altar of uncut stones, on which no iron tool had been used.
Afterward, Joshua read all the words of the law—the blessings and the curses—just as it is written in the Book of the Law.
Why?
The evidence of the mount at Et-Tell is difficult to accord with the biblical record here - which suggests that this may not in fact be the correct site of Ai. But see 'Cities of the conquest'. Joshua's flight and ambush strategy makes capital out of Israel's previous defeat.
From Ai, Joshua moves 32 km north to establish himself at Shechem, in the valley between Mts Ebal and Gerizim. In God's name he takes possession of the land. And the covenant is sworn as Moses had commanded.
Stay with people may encourage his people, we are family.
How?
Joshua listen to the Lord and encourage his people, so he is very good leader of Israel.
Sunday, January 17, 2016
Love the Lord than any others
Joshua 7:21-26
The guilty man was discovered by means of the sacred lot, the two stones kept in the high priest's breastplate(護胸甲). It is not now known exactly how this was done.
Achor means 'Trouble'
It would seem that Achan's family were also in the know and therefore to blame.
Why?
To the guilty man the Lord will bring trouble on him.
Love the Lord more than attraction of the money and treasure. It is need the faith and strength to the Lord. Be aware if God with us we have everything good to us.
How?
Love the Lord than any others. Blessing is from the Lord.
The guilty man was discovered by means of the sacred lot, the two stones kept in the high priest's breastplate(護胸甲). It is not now known exactly how this was done.
Achor means 'Trouble'
It would seem that Achan's family were also in the know and therefore to blame.
Why?
To the guilty man the Lord will bring trouble on him.
Love the Lord more than attraction of the money and treasure. It is need the faith and strength to the Lord. Be aware if God with us we have everything good to us.
How?
Love the Lord than any others. Blessing is from the Lord.
Saturday, January 16, 2016
Consequence of unfaithful in regard to the devoted things
Joshua 7:1-20
But the Israelites were unfaithful in regard to the devoted things. They failed to attack Ai and they were routed by the men of Ai, who killed about thirty-six of them.
I will not be with you anymore unless you destroy whatever among you is devoted to destruction.
Early the next morning Joshua had Israel come forward by tribes, and Judah was chosen. Then clan, family be chosen, and Achan son of Karmi, was chosen.
Achan replied, “It is true! I have sinned against the Lord, the God of Israel."
Why?
Because Achan defied God's ban 36 men died at Ai, and the whole nation was shamed before their Canaanite enemies. The disobedience of one individuals of one individual touches the whole community: where wrong has been done there is corporate, as well as individual, accountability.
God is holy so if any sin exists among people, God will not with them.
God knows everything, Achan did not face his sin until the lot was chosen to him.
How?
Let me be holy, for God is holy. Obey his commands and fear his holy name.
But the Israelites were unfaithful in regard to the devoted things. They failed to attack Ai and they were routed by the men of Ai, who killed about thirty-six of them.
I will not be with you anymore unless you destroy whatever among you is devoted to destruction.
Early the next morning Joshua had Israel come forward by tribes, and Judah was chosen. Then clan, family be chosen, and Achan son of Karmi, was chosen.
Achan replied, “It is true! I have sinned against the Lord, the God of Israel."
Why?
Because Achan defied God's ban 36 men died at Ai, and the whole nation was shamed before their Canaanite enemies. The disobedience of one individuals of one individual touches the whole community: where wrong has been done there is corporate, as well as individual, accountability.
God is holy so if any sin exists among people, God will not with them.
God knows everything, Achan did not face his sin until the lot was chosen to him.
How?
Let me be holy, for God is holy. Obey his commands and fear his holy name.
Friday, January 15, 2016
The Lord was with Joshua
Joshua 6:22-27
So the young men who had done the spying went in and brought out Rahab, her father and mother, her brothers and sisters and all who belonged to her. They brought out her entire family and put them in a place outside the camp of Israel.
Then they burned the whole city and everything in it, but they put the silver and gold and the articles of bronze and iron into the treasury of the Lord’s house.
So the Lord was with Joshua, and his fame(reputation) spread throughout the land.
Why?
Anyone will be famous and blessed when the Lord is with him.
Joshua kept the promise and saved the whole family of Rahab. Except Rahab the whole city of Jericho was destroyed.
The city of Jericho has an incredibly long history of building and destruction.
The curse: The mound lay in ruins for 400 years, until Ahab's reign. Then Hiel rebuilt Jericho - and fell heir to the curse. (1 Kings 16:34)
How?
Keep follow the way of God for Jesus Christ is the fountain of blessing.
So the young men who had done the spying went in and brought out Rahab, her father and mother, her brothers and sisters and all who belonged to her. They brought out her entire family and put them in a place outside the camp of Israel.
Then they burned the whole city and everything in it, but they put the silver and gold and the articles of bronze and iron into the treasury of the Lord’s house.
So the Lord was with Joshua, and his fame(reputation) spread throughout the land.
Why?
Anyone will be famous and blessed when the Lord is with him.
Joshua kept the promise and saved the whole family of Rahab. Except Rahab the whole city of Jericho was destroyed.
The city of Jericho has an incredibly long history of building and destruction.
The curse: The mound lay in ruins for 400 years, until Ahab's reign. Then Hiel rebuilt Jericho - and fell heir to the curse. (1 Kings 16:34)
How?
Keep follow the way of God for Jesus Christ is the fountain of blessing.
Thursday, January 14, 2016
Keep away from the devoted things
Joshua 6:1-21
The seven priests carrying the seven trumpets before the Lord went forward, blowing their trumpets, and the ark of the Lord’s covenant followed them. he armed guard marched ahead of the priests who blew the trumpets, and the rear guard followed the ark. Joshua had commanded the army, “Do not give a war cry, do not raise your voices, do not say a word until the day I tell you to shout. Then shout!”
March around the city once with all the armed men. Do this for six days. On the seventh day, march around the city seven times, with the priests blowing the trumpets.
The city and all that is in it are to be devoted to the Lord. Only Rahab the prostitute and all who are with her in her house shall be spared, because she hid the spies we sent. But keep away from the devoted things, so that you will not bring about your own destruction by taking any of them. Otherwise you will make the camp of Israel liable to destruction and bring trouble on it.
The city of Jericho has an incredibly long history of building and destruction.
Devoted things/under a ban: The city and all its contents are dedicated utterly to God. It becomes sacrilege then, for anyone to take anything for themselves.
Seven is the number of completeness and perfection. Used 735 times (54 times in the book of Revelation alone), the number 7 is the foundation of God's word. If we include with this count how many times 'sevenfold' (6) and 'seventh' (119) is used, our total jumps to 860 references.
Do not take anything that be devoted to the Lord, such as tithe.
How?
Be humble, do not take the honor of the Lord, give honor to God, He is my Lord!
The seven priests carrying the seven trumpets before the Lord went forward, blowing their trumpets, and the ark of the Lord’s covenant followed them. he armed guard marched ahead of the priests who blew the trumpets, and the rear guard followed the ark. Joshua had commanded the army, “Do not give a war cry, do not raise your voices, do not say a word until the day I tell you to shout. Then shout!”
March around the city once with all the armed men. Do this for six days. On the seventh day, march around the city seven times, with the priests blowing the trumpets.
The city and all that is in it are to be devoted to the Lord. Only Rahab the prostitute and all who are with her in her house shall be spared, because she hid the spies we sent. But keep away from the devoted things, so that you will not bring about your own destruction by taking any of them. Otherwise you will make the camp of Israel liable to destruction and bring trouble on it.
The city of Jericho has an incredibly long history of building and destruction.
Devoted things/under a ban: The city and all its contents are dedicated utterly to God. It becomes sacrilege then, for anyone to take anything for themselves.
Why?
It was a war of nerves for the men of Jericho; day after day the encircling troops, the trumpet-blasts, the silent army, building up to the great climax of the seventh day.Seven is the number of completeness and perfection. Used 735 times (54 times in the book of Revelation alone), the number 7 is the foundation of God's word. If we include with this count how many times 'sevenfold' (6) and 'seventh' (119) is used, our total jumps to 860 references.
Do not take anything that be devoted to the Lord, such as tithe.
How?
Be humble, do not take the honor of the Lord, give honor to God, He is my Lord!
Wednesday, January 13, 2016
God was at the head of the army
Joshua 5:10-15
The day after the Passover, that very day, they ate some of the produce of the land:unleavened bread and roasted grain. The manna stopped the day after they ate this food from the land.
Joshua saw a man standing in front of him with a drawn sword in his hand. Joshua went up to him and asked, “Are you for us or for our enemies"? "Neither" he replied. "But as commander of the army of the Lord I have now come." Then Joshua fell face down to the ground in reverence.
“Take off your sandals, for the place where you are standing is holy.” And Joshua did so.
Why?
God was at the head of the army. No one knew this better than Joshua, after his encounter with 'the captain of the army of the Lord'. Israel knew it, as the Ark of Gods presence led the forces.
Joshua knew this man was send from the Lord so he fell down and listen to his command. His is the commander of the army of the Lord.
God's promis has done, after they ate the food from the land in Cannan, the manna stopped. Manna is the food to God's people provided from the Lord.
My food and my life is supported from the Lord either.
How?
God is my head rather me and anyone else in the world.
The day after the Passover, that very day, they ate some of the produce of the land:unleavened bread and roasted grain. The manna stopped the day after they ate this food from the land.
Joshua saw a man standing in front of him with a drawn sword in his hand. Joshua went up to him and asked, “Are you for us or for our enemies"? "Neither" he replied. "But as commander of the army of the Lord I have now come." Then Joshua fell face down to the ground in reverence.
“Take off your sandals, for the place where you are standing is holy.” And Joshua did so.
Why?
God was at the head of the army. No one knew this better than Joshua, after his encounter with 'the captain of the army of the Lord'. Israel knew it, as the Ark of Gods presence led the forces.
Joshua knew this man was send from the Lord so he fell down and listen to his command. His is the commander of the army of the Lord.
God's promis has done, after they ate the food from the land in Cannan, the manna stopped. Manna is the food to God's people provided from the Lord.
My food and my life is supported from the Lord either.
How?
God is my head rather me and anyone else in the world.
Tuesday, January 12, 2016
Marks the new generation as God's own people
Joshua 5:1-9
All Israelites had been circumcised, all those who came out of Egypt - all the men of military age died in the desert on the way after leaving Egypt. They were still uncircumcised because they had not been circumcised on the way.
Gilgal sounds like the Hebrew for roll.
God said to Joshua, "Today I have rolled away the reproach(責備) of Egypt from you." So the place has been called Gilgal to this day.
Flint knives: Bronze tools had superseded stone by this time, but the traditional tools are used for the religious rite.
Why?
Circumcise is a symbol to be people of God in Old Testament.
The rite of circumcision had not been practised because the covenant itself had been neglected for 40 years as a result of the people's disbelief and disobedience.
Now the sign of circumcision marks the new generation as God's own people. There is no fear of attack - the story of the Jordan crossing has stolen all courage from their enemies.
How to mark this generation as God's own people. It is the Love and Justice.
How?
Living out the symbol of God, to be a real Christian, love and justice.
All Israelites had been circumcised, all those who came out of Egypt - all the men of military age died in the desert on the way after leaving Egypt. They were still uncircumcised because they had not been circumcised on the way.
Gilgal sounds like the Hebrew for roll.
God said to Joshua, "Today I have rolled away the reproach(責備) of Egypt from you." So the place has been called Gilgal to this day.
Flint knives: Bronze tools had superseded stone by this time, but the traditional tools are used for the religious rite.
Why?
Circumcise is a symbol to be people of God in Old Testament.
The rite of circumcision had not been practised because the covenant itself had been neglected for 40 years as a result of the people's disbelief and disobedience.
Now the sign of circumcision marks the new generation as God's own people. There is no fear of attack - the story of the Jordan crossing has stolen all courage from their enemies.
How to mark this generation as God's own people. It is the Love and Justice.
How?
Living out the symbol of God, to be a real Christian, love and justice.
Monday, January 11, 2016
All the peoples might know that the hand of the Lord is powerful
Joshua 4:15-24
Joshua set up at Gilgal the twelve stones they had taken out of the Jordan.
God did this so that all the peoples of the earth might know that the hand of the Lord is powerful and so that you might always fear the Lord your God.
Why?
Remember the history God had done, so we can love each others.
Knowing the had of the Lord is powerful, so we may live with hope and faith.
Always fear the Lord your God, so we may obey his command and save out life.
How?
Knowing the power of God and honoring name the Lord!
Joshua set up at Gilgal the twelve stones they had taken out of the Jordan.
God did this so that all the peoples of the earth might know that the hand of the Lord is powerful and so that you might always fear the Lord your God.
Why?
Remember the history God had done, so we can love each others.
Knowing the had of the Lord is powerful, so we may live with hope and faith.
Always fear the Lord your God, so we may obey his command and save out life.
How?
Knowing the power of God and honoring name the Lord!
Sunday, January 10, 2016
These stones are to be a memorial to the people of Israel forever
Joshua 4:1-14
These stones are to be a memorial to the people of Israel forever.
About forty thousand armed for battle crossed over before the Lord to the plains of Jericho for war.
That day the Lord exalted Joshua in the sight of all Israel; and they stood in awe of him all the days of his life, just as they had stood in awe of Moses.
To commemorate the crossing for ever after, stones are taken from the river-bed, 12 to mark the place where the priests had stood, and 12 to mark the Israelites' first base-camp in the new land, at Gilgal.
Joshua's action in leading the people across the Jordan parallels Moses' crossing of the Red Sea: his position is established, and the nation honors him.
None of the adults who had made the Red Sea crossing, apart from Joshua and Caleb, lived to cross the Jordan.
Why?
God's leading step by step has his wonderful plain and right way. God let Joshua be honored before him, so Joshua has the power and reputation to lead Israelite..
Remember what God has done to us, so we can has faith to Him.
How?
Praise to the Lord! Remember God has love and mercy to me!
These stones are to be a memorial to the people of Israel forever.
About forty thousand armed for battle crossed over before the Lord to the plains of Jericho for war.
That day the Lord exalted Joshua in the sight of all Israel; and they stood in awe of him all the days of his life, just as they had stood in awe of Moses.
To commemorate the crossing for ever after, stones are taken from the river-bed, 12 to mark the place where the priests had stood, and 12 to mark the Israelites' first base-camp in the new land, at Gilgal.
Joshua's action in leading the people across the Jordan parallels Moses' crossing of the Red Sea: his position is established, and the nation honors him.
None of the adults who had made the Red Sea crossing, apart from Joshua and Caleb, lived to cross the Jordan.
Why?
God's leading step by step has his wonderful plain and right way. God let Joshua be honored before him, so Joshua has the power and reputation to lead Israelite..
Remember what God has done to us, so we can has faith to Him.
How?
Praise to the Lord! Remember God has love and mercy to me!
Saturday, January 9, 2016
You will know which way to go
Joshua 3:1-17
You will know which way to go, since you have never been this way before. But keep a distance of about two thousand cubits between you and the ark; do not go near it.
The priests who carried the ark of the covenant of the Lord stopped in the middle of the Jordan and stood on dry ground, while all Israel passed by until the whole nation had completed the crossing on dry ground.
It was spring - the first month of the Hebrew calendar, 'Nisan', which is March/April approaching the time of the barley harvest.
The river was swollen with Mt Hermen's melted snows, not the priests stepped into the flood-water, a blockage at Adam, about 29km upstream, dammed the river, leaving the river-bed dry.
As with the Red Sea crossing, 40 years earlier natural forces are employed to clear the way in a miracle of timing.
Sanctify/consecrate/purity: prepare yourselves before God, by ritual purification and self-examination in the light of what God requires.
Why?
The Lord will show the greatness to Israelite and keep distance to the Ark, for God is holy. Fear the Lord and consecrate yourself is necessary.
How?
God will let me know which way to go. Give honor and praises to the Lord.
You will know which way to go, since you have never been this way before. But keep a distance of about two thousand cubits between you and the ark; do not go near it.
The priests who carried the ark of the covenant of the Lord stopped in the middle of the Jordan and stood on dry ground, while all Israel passed by until the whole nation had completed the crossing on dry ground.
It was spring - the first month of the Hebrew calendar, 'Nisan', which is March/April approaching the time of the barley harvest.
The river was swollen with Mt Hermen's melted snows, not the priests stepped into the flood-water, a blockage at Adam, about 29km upstream, dammed the river, leaving the river-bed dry.
As with the Red Sea crossing, 40 years earlier natural forces are employed to clear the way in a miracle of timing.
Sanctify/consecrate/purity: prepare yourselves before God, by ritual purification and self-examination in the light of what God requires.
Why?
The Lord will show the greatness to Israelite and keep distance to the Ark, for God is holy. Fear the Lord and consecrate yourself is necessary.
How?
God will let me know which way to go. Give honor and praises to the Lord.
Friday, January 8, 2016
Our God in heaven above and on the earth below.
Joshua 2:8-24
Our God in heaven above and on the earth below.
Rahab tied the scarlet cord in the window as a sure sign that it will spare the lives of those who enter this house.
These two spies reported to Joshua that "The Lord has surely given the whole land into our hands; all the people are melting in fear because of us."
Rahab's house was built on or into the city wall , with a flat roof on which produce could be spread out to dry - in this case flax, from which she would spin linen thread. The house of a prostitute was somewhere two men might go with no questions asked' and no doubt a good place to pick up information. The Israelite kept their promise to her.
Why?
The sign of red scarlet on the window is a sign of salvation, so as the Jesus on the Cross is sign of our life from dead to eternal life.
Our Lord in heaven above all on the earth and below.
The storyteller makes no attempt to 'clean up' Rahab's reputation. The tale is simply told. As Rahab saves the lives of the spies, so she and her family come under God's protection to find a permanent home among God's people and become part of the great salvation story.
Rahab was naturalized, married Salmon, and through he son Boaz became an ancestress not only David but of Jesus himself.
How?
Salvation sign is the cross of Jesus Christ, believe in him will be saved and free from sin.
Our God in heaven above and on the earth below.
Rahab tied the scarlet cord in the window as a sure sign that it will spare the lives of those who enter this house.
These two spies reported to Joshua that "The Lord has surely given the whole land into our hands; all the people are melting in fear because of us."
Rahab's house was built on or into the city wall , with a flat roof on which produce could be spread out to dry - in this case flax, from which she would spin linen thread. The house of a prostitute was somewhere two men might go with no questions asked' and no doubt a good place to pick up information. The Israelite kept their promise to her.
Why?
The sign of red scarlet on the window is a sign of salvation, so as the Jesus on the Cross is sign of our life from dead to eternal life.
Our Lord in heaven above all on the earth and below.
The storyteller makes no attempt to 'clean up' Rahab's reputation. The tale is simply told. As Rahab saves the lives of the spies, so she and her family come under God's protection to find a permanent home among God's people and become part of the great salvation story.
Rahab was naturalized, married Salmon, and through he son Boaz became an ancestress not only David but of Jesus himself.
How?
Salvation sign is the cross of Jesus Christ, believe in him will be saved and free from sin.
Thursday, January 7, 2016
Make right decision
Joshua 2:1-7
Two spies who look over the land from Shittim sent by Joshua entered the house of a prostitute named Rahab.
Rahab had taken them up to the roof and hidden them under the stalks of flax shed had laid out on the roof.
Why?
Jericho, the 'city of palm trees', lies just west of the River Jordan. Joshua's intention was to make his first thrust into the centre of the land, driving a wedge(楔) between north and south. Jericho stood directly in his path, and obvious first target.
Rahab's action in harbouring the spies stemmed not from fear but from belief that Israel's God is the true God.
How?
Make a decision when chance is come, danger and chance are between.
Two spies who look over the land from Shittim sent by Joshua entered the house of a prostitute named Rahab.
Rahab had taken them up to the roof and hidden them under the stalks of flax shed had laid out on the roof.
Why?
Jericho, the 'city of palm trees', lies just west of the River Jordan. Joshua's intention was to make his first thrust into the centre of the land, driving a wedge(楔) between north and south. Jericho stood directly in his path, and obvious first target.
Rahab's action in harbouring the spies stemmed not from fear but from belief that Israel's God is the true God.
How?
Make a decision when chance is come, danger and chance are between.
Wednesday, January 6, 2016
Only be strong and courageous
Joshua 1:12-18
Then Israelite answered Joshua, “Whatever you have commanded us we will do, and wherever you send us we will go. Just as we fully obeyed Moses, so we will obey you. Only may the Lord your God be with you as he was with Moses.
Only be strong and courageous! (v 6,7,9,18)
When Joshua commended them they all obey his commend and will obey Joshua as obeyed Moses.
Why?
Joshua followed Moses for a long time and is a good solider. He is the right man to be their leader.
Only be strong and courageous are said to me also to my proposal of agriculture console meeting tomorrow.
How?
God is with me, so only be strong and courageous!
Then Israelite answered Joshua, “Whatever you have commanded us we will do, and wherever you send us we will go. Just as we fully obeyed Moses, so we will obey you. Only may the Lord your God be with you as he was with Moses.
Only be strong and courageous! (v 6,7,9,18)
When Joshua commended them they all obey his commend and will obey Joshua as obeyed Moses.
Why?
Joshua followed Moses for a long time and is a good solider. He is the right man to be their leader.
Only be strong and courageous are said to me also to my proposal of agriculture console meeting tomorrow.
How?
God is with me, so only be strong and courageous!
Tuesday, January 5, 2016
Keynote to be successful wherever I go; Joshua 1
Joshua 1:1-11
Be strong and very courageous. Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged, for the Lord your God will be with you wherever you go.
Be careful to obey all the law my servant Moses gave you; do not turn from it to the right or to the left, that you may be successful wherever you go.
Keep this Book of the Law always on your lips;meditate on it day and night, so that you may be careful to do everything written in it. Then you will be prosperous and successful.
This account of Joshua's accession is one of the great chapters of the Bible. Moses is dead: but God's purpose for the nation continues.
The keynote of this prelude to the conquest is the repeated call to be strong and take heart.
Joshua himself was born in Egypt. He became Moses' right-hand man during the exodus and desert wanderings. He was a fine military commander. In the law-giving at Sinai he was Moses' companion. Joshua was one of the 12 spies sent y Moses to reconnoitre(偵察) the land. He and Caleb alone had the faith and courage to recommend advance - and in consequence were the only ones to survive the 40 years of wandering. Joshua had long been marked out as Moses' successor.
Why?
Joshua will lead those huge people is a hard job, so God encourages Joshua.
Face the land of promise, be strong and very courageous.
Obey the word of God and meditate it all day and do everything according God's word, will be prosperous and successful.
God is my master, my Shepherd and my fortress.
How?
Be careful to obey all the law of God, I may be successful wherever I go
Be strong and very courageous. Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged, for the Lord your God will be with you wherever you go.
Be careful to obey all the law my servant Moses gave you; do not turn from it to the right or to the left, that you may be successful wherever you go.
Keep this Book of the Law always on your lips;meditate on it day and night, so that you may be careful to do everything written in it. Then you will be prosperous and successful.
This account of Joshua's accession is one of the great chapters of the Bible. Moses is dead: but God's purpose for the nation continues.
The keynote of this prelude to the conquest is the repeated call to be strong and take heart.
Joshua himself was born in Egypt. He became Moses' right-hand man during the exodus and desert wanderings. He was a fine military commander. In the law-giving at Sinai he was Moses' companion. Joshua was one of the 12 spies sent y Moses to reconnoitre(偵察) the land. He and Caleb alone had the faith and courage to recommend advance - and in consequence were the only ones to survive the 40 years of wandering. Joshua had long been marked out as Moses' successor.
Why?
Joshua will lead those huge people is a hard job, so God encourages Joshua.
Face the land of promise, be strong and very courageous.
Obey the word of God and meditate it all day and do everything according God's word, will be prosperous and successful.
God is my master, my Shepherd and my fortress.
How?
Be careful to obey all the law of God, I may be successful wherever I go
Monday, January 4, 2016
Preach the word; be prepared in season and out of season
2 Timothy 4:1-22
Preach the word; be prepared in season and out of season; correct, rebuke and encourage—with great patience and careful instruction. For the time will come when people will not put up with(容忍) sound doctrine.
Keep your head in all situations, endure hardship, do the work of an evangelist, discharge all the duties of your ministry.
Now there is in store for me the crown of righteousness,which the Lord, the righteous Judge, will award to me on that day—and not only to me, but also to all who have longed for his appearing.
To the enemy: Alexander the metalworker did me a great deal of harm. The Lord will repay him for what he has done. You too should be on your guard against him, because he strongly opposed our message.
The Lord be with your spirit. Grace be with you all.
Death is close for Paul. H can face it without fear: he has run the course and kept the faith. The Olympic victor's wreath, the sovereign's awards for faithful service is in prospect, not just for him but for all who have loved the Lord and long for his return.
He has a last charge for Timothy: go on declaring Gods message, 'press it home in season, out of season', come what may.
The time will come when people prefer to follow their own whims, choosing fable and legend in preference to truth.
Personal news is left until last. Paul's fellow missionaries - Titus, Tychicus, Trophimus - are all away. One is ill, and one has defected. At the first stage of his trial Paul;, like Jesus, stood alone. All his friends deserted him, and his enemies were not slow to make capital.
Now winter is coming and he wants his books ad papers, and his thick cloak. He has only Luke's presence, and the faithful Christians in Rome, to warm his heart - and the hope that Timothy and Mark will reach him in time.
The lion's mouth: This may just be a manner of speaking; or may refer to the lions in the arena, to Nero, or to Satan.
Why?
Preach the word; be prepared in season and out of season; For God want us to serve him in season and out of season, so we have to prepare ourselves. Preach the gospel in any time, because our time is limited.
People will not put up with sound doctrine. This is the situation of people in this world.
How?
Preach the word of God. Guard against those who against Jesus Christ.
Preach the word; be prepared in season and out of season; correct, rebuke and encourage—with great patience and careful instruction. For the time will come when people will not put up with(容忍) sound doctrine.
Keep your head in all situations, endure hardship, do the work of an evangelist, discharge all the duties of your ministry.
Now there is in store for me the crown of righteousness,which the Lord, the righteous Judge, will award to me on that day—and not only to me, but also to all who have longed for his appearing.
To the enemy: Alexander the metalworker did me a great deal of harm. The Lord will repay him for what he has done. You too should be on your guard against him, because he strongly opposed our message.
The Lord be with your spirit. Grace be with you all.
Death is close for Paul. H can face it without fear: he has run the course and kept the faith. The Olympic victor's wreath, the sovereign's awards for faithful service is in prospect, not just for him but for all who have loved the Lord and long for his return.
He has a last charge for Timothy: go on declaring Gods message, 'press it home in season, out of season', come what may.
The time will come when people prefer to follow their own whims, choosing fable and legend in preference to truth.
Personal news is left until last. Paul's fellow missionaries - Titus, Tychicus, Trophimus - are all away. One is ill, and one has defected. At the first stage of his trial Paul;, like Jesus, stood alone. All his friends deserted him, and his enemies were not slow to make capital.
Now winter is coming and he wants his books ad papers, and his thick cloak. He has only Luke's presence, and the faithful Christians in Rome, to warm his heart - and the hope that Timothy and Mark will reach him in time.
The lion's mouth: This may just be a manner of speaking; or may refer to the lions in the arena, to Nero, or to Satan.
Why?
Preach the word; be prepared in season and out of season; For God want us to serve him in season and out of season, so we have to prepare ourselves. Preach the gospel in any time, because our time is limited.
People will not put up with sound doctrine. This is the situation of people in this world.
How?
Preach the word of God. Guard against those who against Jesus Christ.
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