As For Me and My House, We Will Serve the Lord. Joshua 24

 

                                                                                  December 31, 2021

Joshua 24 As for Me and My House, We Will Serve the Lord

 

When God called Abraham from Ur of the Chaldees, He called him out of a home of idolatry.  Terah, his father, served other gods. Abraham must have had a desire in his heart to know the living and true God. God told him to leave Ur and his family to take him away from all the idolatry and deal with him and make of him a nation through which the Messiah would come into the world.  God continued to take care of the Israelites by delivering them from the Amorites who fought them and from Balaam who tried to curse them, bringing them across the Jordan and delivering them from the inhabitants of the land who fought against them. Now the Israelites are settled in the land, but, because they did not get rid of the civilization that was there, they were still surrounded by idolatry.

 

Joshua is a man of great stature. Although Joshua was an average man, a man dedicated to God can be used in a mighty way. Joshua called the people together and gave them a choice. “Do you want to go back to the gods of your fathers, those pagan gods who they served? Or do you want to serve the gods of the Amorites? You can choose. But as for me and my house, we are going to serve the Lord.”

 

God has also been good to us that many people miss out on His blessings He has showered upon them. Many people think they can do as they please. It is true that He is a God of Mercy, love, and comfort, but He is also a God of judgment.

 

The Book of Joshua ends with Joshua being buried in that barren land that he chose for his inheritance.

 

 

Please read the chapter listed so that you can understand God’s Word better.

If you have missed any lessons, you can go to: God Plans For You at https://sherrysouthard.blogspot.com.

J. Vernon McGee Commentary and Nelson’s Quick Reference Commentary.

 

What God Has Done. Joshua 23

 

Joshua 23 – What God Has Done

 

Joshua calls the people around him and says, “you have seen what God has done for you.” “God has done these wonderful things for you, now stay close to Him, and obey Him.  If you do this, God will continue to bless you.” Then Joshua warns them that if they turn from God, His judgment would be upon them.

 

The grave danger of crossing the Jordan River, facing an enemy in a strange land, encountering the unknown on every hand, and meeting fear on every side, had kept Israel close to the Lord. Joshua recognized this since they had entered into rest and were enjoying prosperity and plenty. They would drift away from God, that is the story of human nature. It never changes.

 

The most dangerous period any people can go through is not the time of grave danger and suffering, but the time of peace and plenty.

 

Joshua gave this farewell address first to the leaders and then to the people. He magnified the Lord and not himself. Joshua was a gifted leader and a great general, but he gave the glory to God. He reminded them that God’s word never fails and must be obeyed completely if God is to continue His blessing on the land.

 

Please read the chapter listed so that you can understand God’s Word better.

If you have missed any lessons, you can go to: God Plans For You at https://sherrysouthard.blogspot.com.

J. Vernon McGee Commentary and Nelson’s Quick Reference Commentary.

 

Building an Altar. Joshua 22

 

Joshua 22 – Building an Altar

 

Just before the Reubenites and the Gadites leave, Joshua calls them together and commends them for a job well done. Then he gives them a warning that even though they chose to live on the wrong side of the Jordan, they are still to follow the law of Moses. The Reubenites and Gadites then leave with a blessing from Joshua. Once they returned home, they built a monument to remind them of something. When the children of Israel heard what they had done, they got upset and gathered at Shiloh. They began to talk about war against their own brethren. The children of Israel believe the two and one-half tribes were building and altar to offer sacrifices.  They thought it was an attempt to divide the nation.

However, they did not build an altar for the purpose of offering sacrifices. The altar was simply a reminder that they still belonged to the nation Israel. The two and one-half tribes were sincere in what they had done, and the nine and one-half tribes accepted their explanation.

Some of us are a little hasty. We say and do things we should not say and do and are sincere in thinking we are defending the word of God when in reality we are not. In John 17:20-21 Jesus prayed, “neither pray I for these alone, but for them also which shall believe on me through their word; That they may all be one; as thou, Father, art in me, and I in thee, that they also may be one in us; that the world may believe that thou have sent me.”

Not gathering facts before making conclusions, can lead to spreading of  lies. We must always research the truth before making false accusations.

Our Lord said, “You shall know them by their fruits.”  Matt. 7:16.

 

Please read the chapter listed so that you can understand God’s Word better.

If you have missed any lessons, you can go to: God Plans For You at https://sherrysouthard.blogspot.com.

J. Vernon McGee Commentary and Nelson’s Quick Reference Commentary.

 

Cities of Refuge. Joshua 20, 21

 

Joshua 20. Cities of Refuge

 

God’s commandment for the establishment of cities of refuge was first given in Exodus 21:13. Then explicit directions for the cities of refuge are given in Numbers 35.

God knows human nature. This was His law. If one killed another unintentionally, without premeditation, he is to be provided protection.

 

Scripture makes it clear that not only was the Lord Jesus Christ slain, but He is our city or refuge today. All who find a refuge in Him are saved forever from the judgment of a Holy God. Both Jew and Gentile stand guilty before God as having participated in that which brought about the death of His Son. But Christ came to give Himself a ransom for all.  And His sacrifice on the cross has opened up, as it were, a city of refuge for all who put their trust in Him.

 

Joshua 21 Cities for the Levites

 

God kept His promise and scattered the Levites, the Priestly tribe, throughout Israel. He gave them forty-eight cities, including the cities of refuge.  It should have been a blessing to Israel to have these servants of God living within their cities and sharing the truth of the Word of God with the people.

 

Now the Israelites are at rest. The rest for us today is the rest of redemption. The one thing Christian needs is to enter into the rest God has provided. By our faith, we can accomplish that. “Come unto me, all you that labor, and I will give you rest.” Matt. 11:28

The Israelites can now cultivate and eat the fruits of their labor.

 

Please read the chapter listed so that you can understand God’s Word better.

If you have missed any lessons, you can go to: God Plans For You at https://sherrysouthard.blogspot.com.

J. Vernon McGee Commentary and Nelson’s Quick Reference Commentary.

 

 

A Special Portion. Joshua 19

 

Joshua 19 – A Special Portion.

 

God gave much detail concerning Israel and the land. The land and the people go together. God not only gave them the land of Canaan, He also gave a particular area to a particular tribe. God gave each tribe a certain section of land.

 

This tells us God is concerned about our personal lives. To Him, our private life is not private. He knows us like a book. When you say, “I just want to get away and be by myself”. Know this, God is right there with you, we cannot run away from Him. It’s okay to get away from humanity if you are getting away to worship God.

 

The Israelites did not offer Joshua the choicest part of the land. It was Joshua himself that chose a barren place about 11 miles from Shiloh. It was probably the worst spots he could have chosen.

 

The Israelites were more than willing to let this man of God have a small, barren place as his portion.

 

We mustn’t neglect the hard workers of our church, especially when they are older and are about to retire.   Even big businesses arrange for a pension for those who retire from their company. God’s people often fail to take care of their elderly.

 

Please read the chapter listed so that you can understand God’s Word better.

If you have missed any lessons, you can go to: God Plans For You at https://sherrysouthard.blogspot.com.

J. Vernon McGee Commentary and Nelson’s Quick Reference Commentary.

 

 

The Tabernacle - Joshua 18

 

Joshua 18 – The Tabernacle

 The children of Israel pitched the tabernacle at Shiloh, a town in Ephraim.  It was not to be the permanent place for the tabernacle.  God chose a permanent site later in Jerusalem.  But until the site changed, the children of Israel were to worship the Lord at Shiloh. It was at the center of the land, accessible to all and a reminder that the fear of God must be at the heart of the nation.

God’s challenge to us is to go and possess our blessings. God has been so good to us. We can thank Him for His grace, His love, His goodness, and His mercy.  How wonderful He is!

 It was not the enemy that prevented the Israelites to possess their inheritance; it was their indifference and indolence.

 We must cooperate with the Lord if we want to know His will. Although “we must not lean upon our own understanding” Proverbs 3:6. We must have an understanding in order for God to direct us.

 Please read the chapter listed so that you can understand God’s Word better.

If you have missed any lessons, you can go to: God Plans For You at https://sherrysouthard.blogspot.com

J. Vernon McGee Commentary and Nelson’s Quick Reference Commentary.

 

 

Their Inheritance. Joshua 15-17

 

Joshua 15. Their Inheritance

 Had the people chosen their inheritance, there no doubt would have been competition and conflict; but the Lord assigned the territory and the tribes submitted to His will. In John 3:27 it says, “A man can receive nothing unless it has been given to him from heaven.”

 Caleb fought courageously to claim his God-given inheritance, the land of the giants, and so did Othniel, his son-in-law. Caleb’s daughter had faith to ask for additional blessings, and she received them. God gives – we possess by faith. We must accept whatever inheritance God grants us.

 

Joshua 16 – 17 Ephraim and Manasseh

 

Ephraim and Manasseh were Joseph’s two sons, born to him in Egypt. Jacob took these sons as his own and gave them a special blessing from the Lord. This explains why these two sons inherited the most valuable land in the heart of Canaan. They were wealthy because of Joseph’s faith and love and because of Jacob’s special blessing.

 Ephraim and Manasseh were not satisfied with their inheritance, and they complained.  Jacob, however told them if they didn’t like it, go, and conquer it.  It was a mountainous area full of giants. They would have to fight, and they would have to work.

 

To lay hold of spiritual blessings we are going to have work hard. But remember there is an enemy. There are giants in the land. Satan will trip you up if he can. There is plenty of blessings to claim. Go and get it.

 

 

Please read the chapter listed so that you can understand God’s Word better.

If you have missed any lessons, you can go to: God Plans For You at https://sherrysouthard.blogspot.com.

J. Vernon McGee Commentary and Nelson’s Quick Reference Commentary.

 

Caleb. Joshua 14

 

Joshua 14.  Caleb

 

Caleb was a man who “wholly followed the Lord.” He is now eighty-five years old, and he is as strong as the day Moses sent him into Canaan as a spy! Joshua and Caleb were certain with God’s help Israel would be victorious in taking the land.  The other ten spies saw giants in the land and wanted to return to Egypt. They wanted to go back to slavery, brickyards, the lash of the taskmasters, chains, shackles, and groaning under burdens.  The Lord Jesus said, “No man having put his hand to the plow, and looking back, is fit for the kingdom of God” Luke 9:62. God had called Israel to go in to the land of Canaan, and Caleb believed it could be done. Even in the wilderness, Caleb thought of the future. He had great hope and it kept him young. Caleb thought of God and had freedom from fear. God was bigger than the giants.

 

Even today, troubles have not come to stay, they have come to pass.

 

Caleb for forty years in that wilderness was enjoying all the spiritual blessings that were his.

 

Someday we will be rewarded. We will not be rewarded according to our works or our prominence and popularity. We will be rewarded for following Christ.

 

Please read the chapter listed so that you can understand God’s Word better.

If you have missed any lessons, you can go to: God Plans For You at https://sherrysouthard.blogspot.com.

J. Vernon McGee Commentary and Nelson’s Quick Reference Commentary.

 

 

Moving On! Joshua 13

 

Joshua 13 – Moving On!

 

Joshua is an old man, stricken in years. He was the leader God used to take the land of Canaan, but the wars are over. He was about 80 years old when God called him, and now he is over one hundred years old.

 

From all outward appearances Israel seemed to be doing very well. They went into the land and drove a wedge right into the center of it. They conquered the South and the North, but the Lord reminded Joshua that there remained much land to be possessed. His next duty was to divide the land and especially, to make sure that Moses’ promises to the two and one-half tribes werre confirmed.  Joshua’s commission not only included the conquering of the land, but also the dividing of it. He allocated not only those portions of Canaan that had already been conquered, but also those parts that were yet to be taken.

 

He had a job to do, and he wanted to complete it before he died. He was not satisfied to defeat thirty-one kings. He urged the tribes to possess the land they had conquered and claim it for the Lord.

 

No matter how much God has enabled you to accomplish in life, there is always much more land to possess. In the Christian life, we never stand still; we go either forward or backward. The challenge to the believer is Hebrews 6:1 “Let us go on!”

 

Please read the chapter listed so that you can understand God’s Word better.

If you have missed any lessons, you can go to: God Plans For You at https://sherrysouthard.blogspot.com. J. Vernon McGee Commentary and NKJ Bible and Nelson’s Quick Reference.

 

Joshua Fights A Battle - Joshua 11, 12

 

Joshua 11& 12 – Joshua Fights a Battle

 

The enemy in the north of Canaan united to resist Israel’s advance, and their forces were great.  But God assured Joshua that he would win the battle, and he did.  God assures us before the battle, fights for us during the battle, and commands us after the battle.  How we follow orders after the victory is as important as what we do before the battle begins.

Joshua conquered the whole land and did it to provide each Israelite with his inheritance from the Lord. God helped him defeat thirty-one kings and claim their land and their wealth for the Lord and His people. The Son of God has defeated every spiritual enemy and now reigns in heaven. Through Him, we can “reign in life” Romans 5:17 and claim the victory.

 

Please read the chapter listed so that you can understand God’s Word better.

If you have missed any lessons, you can go to: God Plans For You at https://sherrysouthard.blogspot.com. Nelson’s Quick Reference Commentary

 

Five Kings Conquered Joshua 10

 

Joshua 10 Five Kings Conquered

 

Adonizedec -King of Jerusalem, Hoham – King of Hebron, Piram- King of Jarmuth, Japhia- King of Lachish, Debir – King of Eglon.  These five kings heard of the treaty between the Gibeonites and Israel and decided to make war against the Gibeonites. The Gibeonites reached out to Joshua for help. Joshua came to their help because of the treaty and because God had told Joshua to exterminate the enemy in that land. So, his army took out after them. It was a surprise attack, and the Lord routed them before Israel.

Joshua wanted more daylight in which to fight; so, God stopped the solar system and cut down the heat of the sun by a hailstorm. God caused the sun to stand still so that Joshua might be victorious in battle. God stopped the entire universe for one man! He also sent His Son into the world to die for sinners, which was more wonderful that stopping the sun. If you were the only person that had ever been born, Christ would have died for you.

These kings and their people were given 420 years to make up their minds to turn to God. Israel had to stay out of the land for 420 years until the iniquity of the Amorites was full. God had chosen Joshua and this time to fulfill his purpose for the Israelites.

Joshua had the captains of his army put their feet upon the necks of these kings to strengthen the heart of the people.  They were frightened. Then Joshua killed the kings and hanged them on five trees until that evening. If these kings had been turned loose, they would have led a rebellion against Joshua that would have caused literally thousands of people to die.

It is God who gave Israel victory and possession. Today our victory is in Christ. The victorious life is His life lived in us. Then we are blessed with all spiritual blessings, which are the possessions He has promised to us.

 

Please read the chapter listed so that you can understand God’s Word better.

If you have missed any lessons, you can go to: God Plans For You at https://sherrysouthard.blogspot.com.

 

J. Vernon McGee Commentary and New King James Bible. Nelsons Quick Reference Commentary.

Clever Gibeonites Joshua 9

 

Joshua 9  Clever Gibeonites

 

The Gibeonites were very clever, and they were a bunch of liars. They pretended to be envoys from a far country when, in fact, they lived only a few miles from Jerusalem. They told Joshua that they really wanted to worship the living and true God. They showed Joshua their old sacks and wineskins, their old shoes and threadbare clothing, and their moldy beard.  It was all a hoax, but Joshua fell for it. God had ordered the Israelites to completely wipe out the people of the land and to make no treaties with them. He was deceived into making peace with them. Neither Joshua nor any of the men of Israel asked the mind of God before entering this alliance.

 The Gibeonites represent for us the devil. “Put on the whole armor of God, that you may be able to stand against the wiles of the devil.” Ephesians 6:11.  “For we wrestle not against flesh and blood, but against principalities, against powers, against the rulers of darkness of this world, against spiritual wickedness in high places.” Deut. 6:12. Satan tries to trick you into following him. He went to church last Sunday, and he will be there next Sunday.  He wants to be religious, and he wants you to fall down and worship him. Unfortunately, you and I are sometimes ignorant of his devices. “Submit yourselves therefore to God. Resist the devil, and he will flee from you.” James 4:7. We are to have nothing to do with that which we are not well informed.

When Israel discovered that the Gibeonites were neighbors, and had tricked them, they still honored the treaty they had made with them. A man’s word is very important. And that is the way God wants it today.

 Please read the chapter listed so that you can understand God’s Word better.

If you have missed any lessons, you can go to: God Plans For You at https://sherrysouthard.blogspot.com.

 

J. Vernon McGee Commentary and New King James Bible.

 

Cursing's and Blessings Joshua 8

 

Joshua 8 Cursing’s and Blessings

 

God says to take all the men of war when they go against Ai. In our last lesson we said Ai represents the flesh The flesh is the greatest enemy we have, and we need all the resources we have to get the victory. God tells Joshua to take Ai by ambush. The strategy worked as Joshua planned, and the city of Ai fell easily into the hands of Israel.

 

We all have our defeats in our life, as Joshua did with Ai in his first encounter. We must examine very carefully the reasons for our defeats. We must realize that the greatest enemy you and I have is ourselves. The reason for our defeat is our dependence upon our own ability. You and I cannot control the flesh. Only the Spirit of God can do that. Christ died not only that you might have salvation, but He died that this sin nature might be dealt with.. “God sending His own Son in the likeness of sinful flesh, and for sin, condemned sin in the flesh.” Romans 8:31. Paul stated in Gal. 2:20 “I am crucified with Christ; nevertheless, I live, yet not I, but Christ lives in me; and the life which I now live in the flesh I live by the faith of the Son of God, who loved me, and gave himself for me.”

 

After the victory at Ai, Joshua built an altar unto the Lord God of Israel in Mount Ebal. There Joshua read the blessings and the cursing’s. (Deut. 11”26-32). They did not read just a part of it; they read all of it. This was to be the law of the land, and it was time for Israel to be reminded of the conditions of God’s covenant with her.

 

 

Please read the chapter listed so that you can understand God’s Word better.

If you have missed any lessons, you can go to: God Plans For You at https://sherrysouthard.blogspot.com.

 

J. Vernon McGee Commentary and New King James Bible. Nelsons Quick Reference Commentary.

 

Defeat At Ai - Joshua 7

 

Joshua 7 – Defeat at Ai

 

Because of one man, Achan, who committed a sin, the whole nation had to suffer. “And whether one member suffer, all the members suffer with it; or one member be honored, all the members rejoice with it.” I Cor.12:26

Jericho represents the world. Ai represents the flesh. The flesh has many people under its charge. They think they are living the Christian life, yet they do not know what it is. The victorious life is His life. He is the One who gets the victory and not us.

They had overcome Jericho, it was God’s victory, but Israel thought of it as their victory. They said, “Ai is nothing compared to Jericho.” Israel was defeated by the men of Ai. You and I are defeated by the flesh. Like us, the Israelites did not recognize their weakness. God wants to live the Christian life through you. It is only when we are filled with the Holy Spirit of God that we can live the Christian life.

Joshua could not understand why he lost the battle. He cried out and torn his clothes. He didn’t know his people had sinned. God told Joshua that sin was in the camp and that he would have to deal with it. The tribe of Judah and the family of the Zarhites were found to be guilty. Achan saw, he coveted, and he took. Gossip, criticism, envy, and jealousy are all sins of the flesh. They cause strife and trouble. Achan confessed his sins.

The thing to do is to keep the communication open between you and God. And the only way you can do it is by confessing your sins. True confession spells it out as Achan did. “I saw them, I coveted them; I took them.” Tell God everything that is in your heart- just open it up to Him. You might as well tell Him because He already knows all about it. There can be no joy in your life, no power, no victory in your life until confession is made.

“For if you live after the flesh you shall die; but if you through the Spirit do mortify the deeds of the body, you shall live.: Romans 8:13.

 

 

Please read the chapter listed so that you can understand God’s Word better.

If you have missed any lessons, you can go to: God Plans For You at https://sherrysouthard.blogspot.com.

 

J. Vernon McGee Commentary and New King James Bible. Nelsons Quick Reference Commentary.

 

the Conquest of Jericho Joshua 6

 

Joshua 6 – The Conquest of Jericho

 

The people of Israel are camped on the west side of the bank of the Jordan River. This is the land that God had promised them, a land of milk and honey. They have been conditioned for victory by circumcision. Joshua made sharp knives for the circumcision. According to J. Vernon McGee this speaks of the Word of God, which “…is quick, and powerful, and sharper than any two-edged sword…” Heb. 4:12.

In our country today all the morality lines are rubbed out, but there is still black and white in the Word of God. We need to get back to Bible morality, because there is no blessing to this nation or any people until they come back to the Word of God.

The first step of conquest is Jericho. By taking the cities of Jericho and Ai, the center of the land will be theirs.

Jericho was prepared for the attack of the Israelites. They did not think they would arrive as quickly as they did, but they shut up the city and prepared for the attack. Joshua follows the Lord’s instructions exactly. They are marching toward the city. In front of the procession is the ark carried by the priests, and the priests carries horns. The forces of Jericho gather at the gate. 

 

The Israelites go all the way around, and instead of attacking, they go back into camp! The next six days they do the same thing. If you had asked Joshua why he was doing this, he probably would have said, “I take my orders from the Captain of the hosts of the Lord. This is what he has told me to do, and I am doing it.” So, on the 7^th. Day they march around the wall again. They do it seven times, and the people shouted when the priests blew the horns. The walls of Jericho fell flat! “By faith the walls of Jericho fell down, after they were encompassed about seven days.” Heb. 11:30 God got the victory; Israel got the possession.

A great problem that many believers have today is that they are trying to “fit the battle of Jericho” and overcome the world.  But you and I need to start taking orders from the Captain of our Salvation.

True to their promise they saved Rahab and all her family that was with her in the house.

 

Please read the chapter listed so that you can understand God’s Word better.

If you have missed any lessons, you can go to: God Plans For You at https://sherrysouthard.blogspot.com.

J. Vernon McGee Commentary and New King James Bible.

Circumcision and The New Generation - Joshua 5

 

Joshua 5 -Circumcision and the New Generation

 

Because the Jordan River was at flood stage, the Amorites and Canaanites did not expect the Israelites to cross over.  They expected them to cross over after the flood season was over. They probably thought they had quite a bit more time to prepare for battle, and it was a shock for them to discover that God had enabled Israel to cross Jordan. Once they crossed over, Joshua set to task getting the new generation circumcised. They had neglected to observe this rite during those years of wandering through the wilderness. Therefore, the place where Joshua circumcised the children of Israel was called Gilgal, which means “a rolling”.

It was in the spring of the year, at the time of the latter rains, that Israel performed the rite of circumcision and then celebrated the Passover. The reproach of Egypt was rolled away from Israel.  God had promised to give the descendants of Abraham the land, and the promise soon became a reality.

The spiritual message here is that the old nature is no good. The old nature cannot inherit spiritual blessing.  “For the flesh lusts against the Spirit, and the Spirit against the flesh” Gal. 5:17.

When Israel arrived in Canaan, the manna ceased, and they began to eat the old corn of the land. Manna represents Christ in His death. He is the One who came down to this earth “to give his life a ransom for many”. The women baked unleavened bread for Passover, and the nation remembered how God had redeemed them from the land of Egypt.

Joshua met a man with a drawn sword, and he asked him, “are you for us, or for our enemies?  He replied, “no, but as captain of the host of the Lord am I now come!” Joshua fell on his face before him. Joshua learned that day that he was not totally in charge.  God was leading them. All Joshua had to remember was that he was to obey, and he was on “holy ground.” Whenever Joshua took off his shoes, it reminded him that he was second in command. That was his secret of his victory!

 

 Please read the chapter listed so that you can understand God’s Word better.

If you have missed any lessons, you can go to: God Plans For You at https://sherrysouthard.blogspot.com.

 

J. Vernon McGee Commentary and New King James Bible.

 

Two Memorials Joshua 4

 

Joshua 4 Two Memorials

 

Twelve men were appointed to take twelve stones out of the Jordan River, and twelve other stones are set up in the middle of the Jordan as a memorial. The priests carrying the ark pass over the river, and the water of the river returns to its normal flow.  The twelve stones taken out of the Jordan and put on the west bank of the river were a reminder of God’s tremendous power on Israel’s behalf. The twelve stones that were placed in the Jordan River speak of the death of Christ. The twelve stones taken out of the Jordan represent the resurrection of Christ.

 

What God did for the children of Israel He did for their benefit, your benefit and mine. He did it that all the people of the earth might know that the hand of the Lord is indeed mighty.

 

Our business as parents is to give our children the Gospel. Christ goes before us through death but also goes with us through life.

 

The stones on the shore reminded the people that the old life was buried and they should walk ‘in newness of life.”  Romans 6:4

 

Please read the chapter listed so that you can understand God’s Word better.

If you have missed any lessons, you can go to: God Plans For You at https://sherrysouthard.blogspot.com.

 

J. Vernon McGee Commentary and New King James Bible.

 

Crossing The Jordan River - Joshua 3

 

Joshua 3 -Crossing the Jordan River

 

The entire nation of Israel crossed the Jordan River in complete commitment to God. When they crossed the Red Sea, Moses went down to the water and struck it with his rod. All that night the waters rolled back. But when they crossed the Jordan River, it was actually a greater miracle, for it was at flood stage and their crossing caused a holding back of the waters that were rushing to the Dead Sea.

The ark is to go down far ahead of the people, three thousand feet, which is almost a mile; and it is to be carried by the priests who are to come to the edge of the Jordan River and stand there. The waters that were this side of it passed on down, and before long there was a dry passage. Priests moved to the center of the Jordan River and stood there holding the ark until all the children of Israel had passed over. The ark had been in the heart of Israel’s camp for forty years during the wilderness march. Every night when they came into camp, the twelve tribes camped about the ark. It was the very center.

For the first time. That which speaks of Christ goes ahead to the Jordan River and enters first. Christ goes before us in death. He entered it for you and me. God knows the way, leads the way, and opens the way. Your faith can encourage others to walk in His way with God.

 

Please read the chapter listed so that you can understand God’s Word better.

If you have missed any lessons, you can go to: God Plans For You at https://sherrysouthard.blogspot.com.

 

J. Vernon McGee Commentary and New King James Bible.

 

Rahab - Joshua 2

 

Joshua 2 Rahab

 

Two spies are sent in, not to see if they can take the land, but to find the best way to enter in. Rahab, a citizen of Jericho, opens her home to the spies. She told her King an outright lie to protect these men. And in doing so, she jeopardized her own life.

 

A Christian should be the most law-abiding citizen in the land. But when the laws of a state conflict with God’s revealed will, then the Christian has no choice but to obey the command of God. The believer is to obey the Word of God today rather than the word of man.

 

Word has spread that the Israelites are coming into the land. They believe they are going to take the land. Rahab could tell that all her people were terrified because of Israel’s advance. Not only did the people hear this, but they also knew it was true. Rahab heard; she believed; then she acted upon her belief. This is Salvation. When you hear the Gospel, the good news of what Christ has done for you, you must not only believe it, you must also trust Christ. “By faith the harlot Rahab perished not with them that believed not, when she had received the spies with peace.”  Heb. 11:31

If the King of Jericho had turned to God, he would have been saved. In fact, the whole city could have been spared if they had believed in God.

 

Once you begin to trust God and obey Him, you never know what He will do for you!

 

 

Please read the chapter listed so that you can understand God’s Word better.

If you have missed any lessons, you can go to: God Plans For You at https://sherrysouthard.blogspot.com.

J. Vernon McGee Commentary and Nelson’s Quick Reference Commentary.

 

 

 

God Equips Us Joshua 1

 

Joshua 1 – God Equips Us

 

Moses represented the Law, and the Law cannot save us. The law is a revealer and not a redeemer. It shows us that we are sinners. The Law was never a Savior. Moses could not lead Israel into the Promised land because of his failure. The problem was not with the Law but with Moses just as the problem is with us. “We have all fallen short of the glory of God.” Only Jesus our Savior can lead us into the place of blessing He has for us. The land is theirs, but their enjoyment depends on their taking possession of it. God gave the Israelites the promised land, but they never possessed all of it. In fact, they only possessed one-tenth of it.

Many Christians today are like Israel in that they are blessed with all spiritual blessings without claiming those blessings as their own.

There will be conflict and that is why we are told in Ephesians 6 to put on the whole armor of God. We have a spiritual enemy. If you and I ever win a victory, He will win it for us. We will, by faith, receive those wonderful possessions.

God encouraged Joshua in a most wonderful way. He says, “I will never leave you.” “Be strong and of good courage.” Joshua moved out by faith; he took charge in confidence. He did it because God told him to do it. We may boldly say, The Lord is my helper, and I will not fear what man shall do to me. Just as God had equipped and prepared Joshua, he has equipped and prepared us for this very work. Joshua had faithfully served with Moses and is now ready to lead. The task that you faithfully do today gets you ready for what God is preparing for you.

Joshua’s victories came from the power of God that was released when they obeyed Him by faith. God still does the impossible today.

 

Please read the chapter listed so that you can understand God’s Word better.

If you have missed any lessons, you can go to: God Plans For You at https://sherrysouthard.blogspot.com.

J. Vernon McGee Commentary and Nelson’s Quick Reference Commentary.

 

 

 

Death of Moses Deut. 34

 

Deuteronomy 34    Death of Moses

 Moses’ sepulcher was unknown because he was to be raised from the dead and brought into the Promised land. When the Lord Jesus was transfigured on the mount, both Moses and Elijah appeared with Him and spoke about His approaching death. The Law could not bring Moses into the land, but the Lord Jesus Christ brought him in. God took care of this performing the burial of Moses Himself. One translation has it, “He died by the kiss of God.” It is a lovely thought that God just kissed Moses and put him to sleep.

 When your time comes to die, the important thing is not the grandeur of your funeral but the greatness of your life. In fact, how you live now will determine how you will die then.

 Moses lived in God’s will and died in God’s will. You never have to fear life or death if you walk in obedience to the Lord.

It is good to plan your funeral, but it is also good to live your life in such a way that you will be missed when you are gone.

 

Please read the chapter listed so that you can understand God’s Word better.

If you have missed any lessons, you can go to: God Plans For You at https://sherrysouthard.blogspot.com.

 

J. Vernon McGee Commentary and Nelson’s Quick Reference

 

Moses' Final Blessings to the Tribes Deut. 33

 

Deuteronomy 33 _Moses’ Final Blessings to the Tribes

 The last public act of Moses before his death is to gather his people about him by tribes and give blessing to each one. He begins with Reuben and prays that Reuben will never become extinct as a tribe in Israel. Judah is the royal tribe from which the Messiah is to come. The Levi tribe was honored by the priesthood in the family of Aaron. They had the privilege of teaching the Law. The nation will be blessed through Levi. Blessings will also come to Israel through the tribes of Joseph which are Ephraim and Manasseh.

 Years ago, a pipeline of oil came into the northern part of the kingdom through the land of Asher. 

 Moses focused on the relationship of the tribes with the Lord and how each one would have a distinctive character, blessing, and ministry. God’s people are privileged to be in His hand for safekeeping and at His feet for learning and obeying. We are “between His shoulders” next to His heart and He bears us with His “everlasting arms”.

 These scriptures are a good reminder to live a day at a time. The best way to destroy today is to regret yesterday and worry about tomorrow. (quote by Warren Wiersbe)

 Please read the chapter listed so that you can understand God’s Word better.

If you have missed any lessons, you can go to: God Plans For You at https://sherrysouthard.blogspot.com. J. Vernon McGee Commentary and Nelson’s Quick Reference.

 

The Song of Moses Deut. 32

 

Deuteronomy 32 The Song of Moses

 

The song of Moses is a great song. The nation of Israel was to learn it. It was a song given to them by God; every Israelite was to learn it and teach it to their children. The Song called Heaven and Earth to witness. It says, “He will come down like rain upon the mown grass: as showers that water the earth.” Psalm 72:6. That is the way the Word of God should come down in our lives. Everything becomes clean and sharply clear. God desires that the Word of God should come down into our hearts and lives like this.

The word “Rock” is used about seven times in the song. The Lord Jesus is called the Rock.

We must know that God is the Father of Israel because of creation- He doesn’t mention redemption here. The bounds that the nations have are arranged according to the number of Israelites. It explains why the Jew and his land are the most sensitive areas on the earth. For forty years in that great and terrible wilderness, God led His people and kept them. Why? They were the apple of His eye.

When we mature God pushes us out of the nest sometimes, not because He doesn’t love us but because He wants us to learn to fly-He wants us to learn to live for Him. This is a wonderful description of the goodness of God. God says He would scatter Israel into corners, were it not that He feared for them the wrath of the enemy. God has a longing for His people. He wants to redeem them; He wants to save them.

 

 

Please read the chapter listed so that you can understand God’s Word better.

If you have missed any lessons, you can go to: God Plans For You at https://sherrysouthard.blogspot.com.

J. Vernon McGee Commentary and Nelson’s Quick Reference Commentary

 

 

Moses' Last Counsel Deut. 31

 

Deuteronomy 31- Moses’ Last Counsel

 

Up until now from Genesis thru Deuteronomy Moses has written all the words in the Bible. He wrote of 120 years of his life. Now he is getting ready to die. Moses is not the essential one to bring Israel into the Promised land. God has made it very clear to him that a new leader will take the people over the Jordan River and into the land. Moses did not choose Joshua. God selected him to be the leader to succeed Moses.

This teaches us that none of us are essential to God’s program. God uses each man in his own time, but when the time of work for the man is finished, God’s work will still go on. When the time comes for us to step aside, God will raise up someone else. That is what is happening to Moses here.

Over and over again, Moses encourages this new generation to go on in, assuring them God will lead them into the land. He encourages Joshua before all the people. By encouraging Joshua, he is also encouraging the people. There are about eight speeches of Moses in the book-given orally, then written down. Moses wrote this law.

There are people today who say they will not turn away from God. But do you know that the Lord Jesus said the same thing about the church. In Luke 18:8 he said, “Nevertheless when the Son of man comes, shall He find faith on earth?” The answer to that question is no, He won’t. In the New Testament there is predicted the apostasy or falling away of the church, just as it was predicted of Israel, and you and I are living in it today. Let us pray that God keep us close to Him.

 

Please read the chapter listed so that you can understand God’s Word better.

If you have missed any lessons, you can go to: God Plans For You at https://sherrysouthard.blogspot.com.

J. Vernon McGee Commentary and Nelson’s Quick Reference Commentary

 

 

 

The Palestinian Covenant Con. Deut.30

 

Deuteronomy 30 -The Palestinian Covenant cont.

 

Verse 1 tells that the Israelites will be scattered among all nations. The nations will be taken off the land for its unfaithfulness. This has been fulfilled. Verse 2 says they are to come back to God. When they return, it won’t be because of their obedience, but they will be obedient because of their return. Verse 3 says that their Messiah will return. This is the first mention of the return of Christ to the earth that is recorded in Scripture. The fourth great promise of God is that Israel will be restored to the land. This is an unconditional promise. The fifth promise is that there will be a national conversion. The sixth is that Israel’s enemies will be judged. Israel will return and then obey the voice of the Lord. That is the order of grace. The seventh is Israel will receive their full blessing. When they return to the land, it will be in obedience to God. There will be no blessing for them in the land until the time when they return in obedience with the new heart God will give them.

We too have a responsibility because we live in a land where we hear the gospel. We are responsible to act upon what we hear. It is up to us. “The word is near you even in your mouth, and in your heart; that is the word of faith, which we preach; That if you confess with your mouth the Lord Jesus and shall believe in your heart that God has raised Him from the dead, you shall be saved.  For with the heart man believes unto righteousness; and with the mouth confession is made unto salvation.”  Romans 10:6-10

Christ is the one to institute this new covenant which is in the future. God asks us to trust the Lord Jesus as our Savior. After that He talks to us about obedience- “if you love me, keep my commandments.” John 14:15

 

 

Please read the chapter listed so that you can understand God’s Word better.

If you have missed any lessons, you can go to: God Plans For You at https://sherrysouthard.blogspot.com.

J. Vernon McGee Commentary and Nelson’s Quick Reference Commentary

 

The Palestinian Covenant - Deut, 29

 

Deuteronomy 29 – The Palestinian Covenant

 

The covenant which God is going to make with the Israelites here relates to the land, and it is called the Palestinian Covenant. God makes this covenant with them just before they enter the land. The oldest people in the nation would have been about sixty years old after wandering through the wilderness. Only Joshua and Caleb remained of the old generation. Despite seeing all the signs of God, they still not perceive. 

Until God opens the eyes and the ears of men and women, they cannot hear the gospel. They can hear the words, but they cannot hear the gospel with understanding.

The children of Israel saw miracles for forty years, and yet they did not believe. “Because the carnal mind is enmity against God: for it is not subject to the law of God, neither indeed can be. So, then they that are in the flesh cannot please God.”  Romans 8:7-8.

The Palestinian covenant is unconditional, but their time in the land will depend on their obedience. The whole Mosaic system is geared for the land. It is not only for the people but also for that land. God’s judgment does not fall only on the people. It also has fallen on the land.

Israel was later put out of the land because God said, “You go into it and live in it on condition.” They did not meet His condition; they did not obey Him.

 

 

Please read the chapter listed so that you can understand God’s Word better.

If you have missed any lessons, you can go to: God Plans For You at https://sherrysouthard.blogspot.com.

J. Vernon McGee Commentary and Nelson’s Quick Reference Commentary

 

 

Israel's Pre-Written History Deut. 28

 

Deuteronomy 28 – Israel’s Pre-written History

 

“If thou shall hearken diligently…” “If” is the conditional part of the covenant. They are going to be blessed only if they obey God. There are twelve curses stated here but there are only six blessings. The blessings are told in Matt 5 in the sermon on the Mount, followed by the beatitudes.

At that time, they had already experienced captivity twice, and they were yet to go into another captivity that would scatter them throughout the entire earth. Scripture prophesied concerning Israel’s being dispossessed out of the land three times and regathered into the land three times. The first of these was prophesied of God to Abraham. Genesis 15:13,16. They went to Egypt for 430 years. Now in this lesson, God is bringing them back to the land for the first regathering. In the Book of Judges, we will find them settled in the land. In the time of King Zedekiah, he was carried away in Babylonian captivity. It was because of their disobedience. God had given them the “if”. If you obey, you will be blessed, If you disobey, you will be put out of the land. Israel was regathered from the Babylonian captivity. The prophets, Haggai, Zechariah, and Malachi, tell of their return to the land. This was the second prophecy that was literally fulfilled. The third scattering of Israel was the result of being captured by Rome. Coming all the way from the west, they spoke a language that was entirely different from Hebrew. Josephus tells in his history how mothers were forced to give up their babies, and the flesh of the babies was eaten. This prophecy was literally fulfilled. And now the Jewish people are scattered throughout the world. They have yet to return to the land altogether.

The gospel of Christ is for Jew and Gentile alike, and it is for the “obedience to the faith among all nations.” Romans 1:5

 

Please read the chapter listed so that you can understand God’s Word better.

If you have missed any lessons, you can go to: God Plans For You at https://sherrysouthard.blogspot.com.

J. Vernon McGee Commentary and Nelson’s Quick Reference Commentary.

 

 

The Future of The Land Deut. 27

 

Deuteronomy 27 – The Future of the Land

 

Now we have come to the Palestinian covenant. The covenants God made could be called eternal covenants and temporary covenants. The eternal covenant is a permanent covenant, and it is unconditional. The temporary covenant is a conditional covenant. The Palestinian Covenant is an unconditional covenant. This covenant has to do with Israel’s future.

These people are now standing on the east bank of the Jordan River. They are preparing to enter the land. This is the new generation; the old generation has died in the wilderness. They were told that when they crossed over into the land, the Ten Commandments were to be written in stone and displayed. Their tenure in the land, their dwelling there, would be determined by their obedience to God. That was a conditional arrangement. But the land was given to them with no conditions attached. God will bring Israel back into that land because it belongs to them. God’s law was to be put in front of them wherever they went – even on the doorposts of their homes.

When they get into the Promised land, the blessing of the people is to be declared from Mount Gerazim and the curses from Mount Ebal. God is the landowner, and that rent is obedience to God. When a generation will not obey God, that generation would be put out of the land, even though the land remained theirs as an eternal inheritance.

There are twelve curses given. As you read all the verses in this chapter, you will see that they all deal with the breaking of the Ten commandments.

 

Please read the chapter listed so that you can understand God’s Word better.

If you have missed any lessons, you can go to: God Plans For You at https://sherrysouthard.blogspot.com.

J. Vernon McGee Commentary and Nelson’s Quick Reference Commentary.

 

Thanksgiving - A Day of Reflection

 

Thanksgiving, A day of Reflection

 

Today is a day of reflection for me. I have had a wonderful Thanksgiving party with the tenants where I live. Another day of thanksgiving with family and extended family, and today I am spending a day of thanksgiving with my self-adopted children whom I helped raise since the boy was in kindergarten. I was considering all that I have and all that I have lost. Many of my loved ones have entered God’s heavenly kingdom. Even though I miss them dearly, I would never wish any of them back because there, their happiness is perfected. I rejoice in the fact that all my loved ones that are now in heaven had lived godly lives while here on earth. It solidifies the fact that if I too build my relationship with Jesus here on earth that I can obtain entrance into the pearly gates. Thereby I can praise the most awesome God and not be burdened by earthly matters.  God has done many wondrous things in m life. Where I was weak, He has made me strong.  Where I was nervous and unsettled, He has made me calm. I am more at home in my earthly flesh than I have ever been before, all because God has made me so.  I am glad for a day of Thanksgiving. Although, I am thankful every day to my God above, It gives me the opportunity to list even more all the things I am thankful for. God has given me so much throughout my lifetime, even through the grieving’s and sufferings.  He has blessed me with a peace that passes all understanding. Today, I can honestly say, I am thankful that God Loves me and I in turn can give back to Him. He has sacrificed so much for me and has loaned so much for me to take care of for Him while I am here that I strive to do my very best in pleasing Him with all that I have and in all that I do. I Love the One and Only God so much and I dearly hope and pray that you do too. If you do, it will certainly shine forth in your life. Love to all my Blog friends and Family.