The book of Joshua begins with the death of Moses and the appointment of Joshua as the new leader, showing the transition for the Israelites from a nomadic existence to settlement in the Promised Land. Joshua emphasizes the importance of obedience to God’s covenant, warning the people that their faithfulness will determine their future in the land.
The book of Joshua can be divided into four main events. Joshua leads Israel into the promised land (Joshua 1-5) to the time they are met with hostility from the native Canaanites, and they engage in battle (Joshua 6-12). After their victories, Joshua divides up the land as an inheritance for the twelve tribes (Joshua 13-22), and finally, the book concludes with Joshua delivering his final words to the people (Joshua 23-24).
Similarly, we see Apostle Paul standing firm in his faith, despite facing intense opposition from the Jewish leaders in Jerusalem (Acts 22:24-23:11). Paul’s Roman citizenship and appeal to Caesar’s court spark a controversy, leading to a plot to kill him (Acts 23:12-15). However, God’s providence and the loyalty of Paul’s nephew thwart the plot.
Both passages serve as reminders that stepping into new territory, whether physical or spiritual, requires courage, obedience, and faith. Like Joshua, we must trust in God’s constant presence and guidance. Also like Paul, we must stand firm in our faith, even when faced with opposition and adversity.
Today’s reading
Joshua 1-3
After the death of Moses the servant of the Lord, it came to pass that the Lord spoke to Joshua the son of Nun, Moses’ assistant, saying:
“Moses My servant is dead. Now therefore, arise, go over this Jordan, you and all this people, to the land which I am giving to them—the children of Israel.
Every place that the sole of your foot will tread upon I have given you, as I said to Moses.
Acts 22:24-23:11
The commander ordered him to be brought into the barracks, and said that he should be examined under scourging, so that he might know why they shouted so against him.
And as they bound him with thongs, Paul said to the centurion who stood by, “Is it lawful for you to scourge a man who is a Roman, and uncondemned?”
When the centurion heard that, he went and told the commander, saying, “Take care what you do, for this man is a Roman.”