Daily Reading
Daily Thought
As the tribes of Israel divide the land and draw boundaries (Joshua 16-18), their disobedience continues. Israel permitted the ungodly to live among them and share the land, “they did not drive out the Canaanites” (Joshua 16:10; 17:13). This was partly to their advantage; the Canaanites provided an additional labor force that served the Jewish nation. But that’s how sin works, it always comes packaged with benefits.
Israel’s problem would be the Canaanite’s number one god, Baal, the rain god. The Jordan River was their source for irrigation, but half of the year, the Jordan slowed to a trickle and Israel needed water. Their life depends on it and they would be confronted with a choice. Depend on Yahweh, the one true God, or follow Baal, the false, but enticingly named, rain god. Too often, Baal prevailed. Thumb through the remainder of the Old Testament and the name of Baal never goes away, and eventually Baal leads Israel back into slavery. Yahweh delivered Israel out of Egypt, out of slavery. Baal put them back.
Joshua would repeatedly challenge the people of Israel, “How long will you put off going in to take possession of the land, which the Lord, the God of your fathers, has given you?” (Joshua 18:3). It was time to move, but they delayed. Isn’t that how it is? As God is at work shaping us into his likeness, he is frustrated not so much by our great sins, but by our dragging feet.
Daily Prayer
God Almighty, as I watch the world around me, my faith is strengthened daily. There are signs of You everywhere. The joys of spring as the world blossoms and new life emerges everywhere reminds me that You are the Author of all life, and I can trust fully in You.
My God, I pray that my life, as well, is a continual reminder of You. That I reflect You in my actions, my thoughts, my faith. That I trust my life to You and walk forward at once in courage and faith, knowing that You go before me.
Amen
Daily Question
What are your best excuses to delay what you know God wants you to do?