R³ Devotional - Day 87

These are some of those parts of the Bible we can get complacent in…you know, those spots with tons of names, locations, lists of things.  That stated, we can’t lose sight of the fact that if it’s in the Bible, it is there for a reason!

In Joshua 19 we are seeing a continuation of the “casting of lots” for their assigned lands within the promised land, and chapter 19 covers 7 lots (not lots like we live on).  Recall that in previous Chapters that the land has been issued as inheritance the 12 tribes of Israel.  We are now in the remaining lands after much has been accounted for.  I love to look at this as God fulfilling His promises to His people.  Though He does not promise me as a gentile any land, He does promise me an inheritance as well...an eternity with Him if I believe in, trust in, and follow Jesus!  You see, as Christians our promised “land” is Heaven, and this Old Testament documentation of God fulfilling His promises should give us great comfort in knowing He will do the same for us!

Joshua 20 introduces to us the “cities of refuge” in the Promised Land.  It is very clear what these cities are for and what the expectations of the people within those cities are.  These cities were designated for those who had accidentally taken someone’s life (without malice).  Apparently, the culture at the time granted families permission to chase down those who killed others and kill them in return.  With these cities, those that had killed without malice found a place of safety.  It’s not a stretch to see a picture of God’s Grace in this…as Christians we will still fall victim to sin (regrettably), but our refuge is in Jesus.  Note that this is not someone willfully continuing to live in sin while claiming to love and trust God.

We close with Joshua 21 where we see an interesting picture emerge.  The priests are servants of the Temple (and the Lord), and God is establishing a way to care for them, utilizing the resources of those who depend on them!  Although most of us do not provide land for ministry servants nowadays, we do tithe to the Church and give to ministries in the same manner!  This is something that should bring joy to our hearts to be a part of.

Real Life Principles:  Trust in God and his promises…He will come through!  Seek refuge in Jesus who paid it all for us…He is our city of refuge!  Give to those who serve God…they are on mission for Him and doing His work!  Don’t forget, giving is not just monetary…it’s time and energy as well.

Relevant Life Applications: Think of how you can encourage others with sharing how God has fulfilled promises in your life…be passionate about what that means to you…it’s contagious!  Don’t just dwell in Jesus as your refuge…share that with others…show them the way!  Although we are supposed to give in confidence, we must remember that if people see you and know you as a Christian, it should be evident in your actions!

Being Ready with Life Action Steps:  Get in prayer and ask God for the confidence to share how He fulfills promises to you.  If you’re having trouble seeing where that is, pray for clarity as well.  We don’t have to look far to see Him in our lives.  When you see or hear of those in need of Jesus’ refuge, boldly proclaim this to them…letting them know how that has helped you.  If you are not experiencing the joy of giving to God’s service, get started…tithe, volunteer, pray, find a way to serve God and His will and plans here!