Entering the Promised Land

• 02 March 2025: Josh 1–4
• 03 March 2025: Josh 5–8
• 04 March 2025: Josh 9–11
• 05 March 2025: Josh 12–14
• 06 March 2025: Josh 15–18
• 07 March 2025: Josh 19–21
• 08 March 2025: Josh 22–24

This week, we journey with Joshua and the Israelites as they finally cross the Jordan and begin the conquest of Canaan. It's a pivotal moment, the culmination of years of wandering in the wilderness. We'll see God's promise to Abraham being fulfilled, but also the complexities and challenges of claiming what has been promised. It’s not all smooth sailing, and the stories this week offer plenty to ponder.

Crossing Over

Sunday, 2 March 2025: Josh 1–4

The book of Joshua opens with God's direct commission. Moses is gone, and Joshua is now leading the people. God's words are powerful: "Be strong and courageous." It's a reminder that leadership requires inner fortitude, especially when facing daunting tasks. The crossing of the Jordan is a dramatic display of God's power, a kind of new creation. It's hard not to see echoes of the Red Sea crossing. The people’s response is important too, they show obedience and faith.

Monday, 3 March 2025: Josh 5–8

Circumcision, Passover, and the appearance of the Commander of the Lord’s army. These are significant events that underscore the sacred nature of what’s happening. It’s not just a military campaign; it’s a religious one. The battle of Jericho is a fascinating story. The Israelites' unconventional tactics highlight the importance of trusting in God's plan, even when it doesn't make sense to us. It reminds me of how often we try to control things, when perhaps we should just trust.

Tuesday, 4 March 2025: Josh 9–11

The Gibeonite deception is a reminder that even God's people can make mistakes. It raises questions about the nature of treaties and the importance of discernment. The subsequent battles show the continuing struggle for the land. It’s a reminder that the Christian life is also a struggle, though our battles may be different.

Wednesday, 5 March 2025: Josh 12–14

These chapters detail the kings defeated by Joshua and the initial division of the land. It's a long list, but it emphasises the scale of the conquest. Caleb's story stands out.  He's 85 years old, but he's still ready to take on his inheritance. His faithfulness is inspiring.

Thursday, 6 March 2025: Josh 15–18

More details about the land allotments, focusing on the tribes of Judah, Benjamin, and others. It's easy to get bogged down in the details, but these passages are important for understanding the geography of the Promised Land and how the tribes were situated.

Friday, 7 March 2025: Josh 19–21

The remaining land allotments are described, including the cities designated for the Levites. The inclusion of these details emphasises the importance of order and justice in the distribution of resources.

Saturday, 8 March 2025: Josh 22–24

The story of the altar built by the eastern tribes highlights the potential for misunderstanding and conflict, even among God's people. Joshua's farewell address is a powerful reminder of God's faithfulness and a call to remain faithful to the covenant. His words echo Moses’ addresses in Deuteronomy. It’s a reminder that each generation must choose to follow God.

A Lasting Legacy

The book of Joshua is about more than just military conquest. It's about God's faithfulness to his promises, the importance of obedience, and the challenges of living in the promised land. As we read these stories, we can reflect on our own journey of faith. What promises has God made to us? Are we being strong and courageous in following him? What “promised land” are we hoping for? It's a good week to pray for the strength and courage to follow God's call, wherever it may lead.