Thurs.’s Devo - Time to Divide the Land

Read: Joshua 13:1-14:15; Luke 18:1-17; Psalm 85:1-13; Proverbs 13:7-8 The land left to be conquered belonged to the Philistines and the Geshurites. There were five rulers of the Philistine cities of Gaza, Ashdod, Ashkelon, Gath and Ekron. There was also the land of the Avvim, Canaanites, Sidoniains, and Gebalites yet to be taken. Joshua was old and the Lord told him that He, himself would drive these nations out before them. Joshua was to divide all the land west of the Jordan between the nine and a half tribes tribes who had not received their inheritance. The Levites received no inheritance but their inheritance was the offerings offered to the Lord. *** As the Lord was describing the land already given to Reuben, Gad and Manasseh on the east side of the Jordan we read that Balaam, the sorcerer hired to curse Israel, had been killed fighting against Israel. The boundaries of their land was mapped out and they already lived and enjoyed their inheritance. *** The rest of the nine and a half tribes had yet to enjoy their land. Caleb came to Joshua and reminded him that Moses had promised him 40 years ago that he could have his choice of the land the land he had scouted out. He had been the only spy, other than Joshua who had encouraged the people to take the land. Caleb wanted the land of Hebron, where the burying place of their forefathers was. It was also the place where the biggest giants reigned. Joshua granted his request. *** In Luke, Jesus gave them a parable to teach them to never give up in their prayers. Caleb never gave up on his promise from Moses and this widow who wanted justice from her enemy didn’t either. If an unrighteousness judge can give this widow what she asked because she wore him out, how much more will God, who loves us, hear our requests and give us what we ask. Jesus asked the question, “When the Son of Man comes, will he find faith on the earth?” Will he find us praying and believing him for justice? *** Jesus told the parable about the two men’s prayers to expose the hearts of those who thought they were so righteous, yet they treated others wrongly. The person whose heart is humble towards God and man was the one whose prayer would be heard. Then Jesus explained that the kingdom of God is given to those who come to him like a child does. *** Lord, may we be humble towards you and all we interact with. May we come to you as your children who are in need of justice and mercy. You alone are everything we need and want.