April 14

Joshua 9:3-10:43, Luke 16:19-17:10, Psalm 83:1-18, Proverbs 13:4

Pray: This day is heavy with the reality of sacrifice and carnal finality. Joshua and the Hebrews were fighting the Amorites and defeating all the enemies of the God of Abraham, Isaac and Jacob. In our prayers let us remember those who are in need physically, emotionally and spiritually. Let us pray for the Holy Spirit’s guidance as we read the scripture.

Read: Joshua prayed that the sun and moon would stand still. Now that is boldness. The purpose? So that God’s people could win the battle and pursue peace and freedom. What is more fascinating is that God actually granted Joshua’s prayer. The Lord not only answered Joshua’s prayers, but in one single campaign the Hebrews defeated all five Kings and all their soldiers. This was a major victory for Joshua and the Hebrews. What stands out is the phrase, “God fights for us”. Joshua was right in saying, “be strong and courageous”.

Edify: Jesus teaches in today’s passage on the power of forgiveness. We are to forgive, not just one time, but seven times over. In another Gospel we are to forgive seven times seventy. Just as a mustard seed appears small, it can grow to become one of the largest plants. We must let go of our anger so God can grow something beautiful and large within us. Today’s anger will become tomorrow’s prison.

Practice: Lazarus is beside father Abraham and the rich man is in great anguish. The rich man wants Lazarus to simply dip his finger in water to cool his parched mouth and tongue. Yet, Abraham had little pity when the rich man asked for mercy in allowing him to warn his brothers who were still alive so they might repent of their sin and not have to suffer like this man. Yet, Abraham believes that they have a right to hear the Law of God being read like everyone else and that they will not get any special treatment. Judgment Day will not be a day of tossing out the Law of God and not holding people accountable for their sin. God’s grace is real and it is life changing. However, we cannot cheapen the grace of God by acting like we are followers of God while we intentionally deny Christ and live our lives in open rebellion. There will be a day of accountability. Fully devoted followers of Christ do not boast in their spiritual intimacy with God, rather we seek to live more faithfully and intentionally in honoring God with our obedience.