Key Verse: Joshua 22:28
Therefore we said that it will be, when they say this to us or to our generations in time to come, that we may say, “Here is the replica of the altar of the Lord which our fathers made, though not for burnt offerings nor for sacrifices; but it is a witness between you and us.”

With the land settled and secured, Joshua saw that it was time to allow the armed men to return from the west bank of Jordan to their families and homes in the east. When they returned they took with them the blessings of God and the fruit of the Promised Land. Upon their arrival home, they built an altar as a witness to their children and future generations. However, their action was misinterpreted by the western tribes. They jumped to the conclusion that the eastern tribes were establishing a false religion.The tribes on the west bank were ready to go to war to stop such heresy. Wisdom prevailed and peace was restored.

We need to be aware of the serious problems that misunderstandings can cause. A premature or immature jumping to conclusions can cause divisions among God’s children which are completely emotional and irrational. We may want to read from the one-chapter book of Jude, verses 17-25. We are warned about those who cause divisions. Verse 20 of Jude states what we hope to accomplish by faithfully reading this blog: “building yourself up on your most holy faith, praying in the Holy Spirit.” Amen!

PRAYER FOR TODAY:
Lord Jesus, as Jude 21 encourages me, may I keep myself in the love of God, looking for the mercy of our Lord Jesus Christ unto eternal life. Amen!

100 PERSONAL WORDS:
Petra is an exceedingly strong fortress. It was next to impossible for an enemy to conquer that city. My security in Christ makes it absolutely impossible that I could be conquered by an enemy unless I allow him access through the narrow “siq” of my free will (The siq is the entrance to Petra shown in yesterday’s blog. One excellent swordsman with the support of boulders from above could stop an entire army). The Doxology of Jude (verses 24 & 25) have for years been my impregnable fortress. God my Saviour keeps me by His mighty unbeatable power. He is wise, glorious, and majestic. He has dominion and power, both now and forever. Amen!!!!!!!

For approximately five years after I became a fully committed follower of Jesus, I struggled to live a Christian life. I was 21 when I grasped the fact that it was not up to me to keep from falling, but that God is totally committed to “keep you from stumbling” (Jude verse 24). I’ve relaxed in His strong arms ever since.

Yours for understanding all of God’s provisions for His children,

David