TOTAL DEPENDENCE ON GOD
Joshua 14:1-5
For I know the thoughts that I think toward you, says the Lord, thoughts of peace and not of evil, to give you a future and a hope Jeremiah 29:11
Today, we read about how God instructed the Israelites to divide the Promised Land by casting lots, trusting His will for the distribution. This process was not a random act but symbolized a deep reliance on God’s sovereignty. The Israelites believed that God controlled the outcome, ensuring each tribe received its rightful inheritance according to His divine plan. This act underscores the importance of depending on God in all aspects of life. Just as the Israelites entrusted the division of their land to God, we too must trust Him with our decisions and circumstances. True dependence on God means surrendering our desires, plans, and fears to His will, confident that He knows what is best. It requires humility, recognizing that our wisdom is limited and that God’s ways are higher than ours (Isaiah 55:8-9).
In our faith journey, like the Israelites, we may face uncertainty about the future. However, when we trust God completely, we can rest in His promises, knowing He is faithful. The distribution of the land by lot reminds us that God’s plan for us is perfect, even when we do not fully understand it. Dependence on God brings peace and assurance that He is in control, guiding us according to His purpose.
Prayer: Dear Lord, help me to totally depend on you in every aspect of life. Amen.
ONE YEAR BIBLE READING
DAY 87 Joshua 21-22: Luke 6:1-26
A DEMAND FOR THE PROMISE
Joshua 14:6-15
Now, therefore, give me this mountain of which the Lord spoke in that day… Joshua 14:12a
In our reading today, we encounter Caleb, a remarkable example of unwavering faith and perseverance. Forty-five years earlier, Caleb, along with Joshua, spied on the land of Canaan and brought back a positive report, trusting in God’s promise despite the foreseen obstacles. Because of his faithfulness, Moses promised him a specific inheritance in the land. Now at eighty-five years old, Caleb approaches Joshua to claim the mountain region of Hebron, still inhabited by the formidable Anakim giants. His request was not rooted in pride but in confidence in God’s word and ability. Caleb understood that God’s promises may come with challenges, but with steadfast faith, no enemy is too great to overcome.
Caleb’s patience and endurance over the years portray the importance of holding onto God’s promises, even when their fulfilment seems delayed. His boldness in asking for what was promised teaches us to approach God with confidence, trusting in His faithfulness and sovereignty. We should remember that obedience and wholehearted devotion position us to receive God’s blessings. As believers, we are also called to learn Caleb’s faith and boldly claim the promises God has given us, knowing that He is always faithful to fulfilling His word.
Prayer: Father, today, I receive by faith every promise You have made for me. Amen.
ONE YEAR BIBLE READING
DAY 89 Judges 1-2: Luke7:1-30
PURSUING THE PROMISE
Joshua 15:13-19
He did not waver at the promise of God through unbelief, but was strengthened in faith, giving glory to God Romans 4:20
Caleb’s story is a powerful example of faith, perseverance, and the strength that comes from trusting in God’s promises. At 85 years old, Caleb still embodied the same vigour and determination as when he was 40, demonstrating that his strength was not merely physical but deeply rooted in his trust in God. Despite the 45-year delay in receiving his promised inheritance, Caleb’s faith never wavered. Initially, Caleb and Joshua stood out among the twelve spies sent to the Promised Land, bringing back a positive report while others doubted. As a result, the Israelites faced 40 years of wandering in the wilderness. Yet, Caleb held firmly to God’s promise that he would inherit the land he had walked on.
When the time came, Caleb boldly approached Joshua to claim his inheritance, not seeking an easy path but asking for the hill country of Hebron, still occupied by giants. Caleb’s example teaches us the importance of actively trusting in God’s promises. He didn’t wait passively for the promise to come to fruition; he pursued it with faith and persistence, confident that God would give him the strength to overcome any challenges. Like Caleb, we must hold on to God’s promises, pray over them, and move forward in faith, trusting that God will fulfil them in His perfect timing.
Prayer: Father, give me strength to trust you. Amen.
ONE YEAR BIBLE READING
DAY 90 Judges 3-5: Luke7:31-50
FAITH REQUIRES ACTION
Joshua 18:1-6
Thus also faith by itself, if it does not have works, is dead. James 2:17.
After the exodus, God gave instructions on the allocation of the promised land to the Israelites. The instruction was for them to go and possess the land because God had already given them victory. However, some tribes were reluctant to go out. Faith without works is dead, taking action shows we believe in and trust what God has said to us. A lot of people use waiting on God as a cover for laziness. God will not do what He has empowered you to do. Instead of wishing that life will get better, put in the necessary work and watch God. God has given you instructions and promises but it is not enough to have prophecies and promises spoken over you, you must take a step in faith.
Procrastination will delay God’s plan for you. The work might seem very large, difficult or impossible but we should put our faith in God’s ability to help us. When God gives you instructions, how committed are you to obeying them? Today God is instructing you to take action.
Prayer: Father, thank you for Your word that awakens me. I receive grace to obey Your instructions and take action. Amen.
ONE YEAR BIBLE READING
DAY 91 Judges 6-7: Luke 8:1-21
STAYING TRUE TO YOUR COMMITMENT
Joshua 22:1-6
Then Joshua called the Reubenites, the Gadites, and half the tribe of Manasseh, and said to them: “You have kept all that Moses the servant of the Lord commanded you, and have obeyed my voice in all that I commanded you. Joshua 22:1-2
Joshua here addresses the tribes of Reuben, Gad, and the half-tribe of Manasseh, commending them for their faithfulness and obedience. These tribes had fulfilled their commitment to help their fellow Israelites conquer the land west of the Jordan River. Now, having completed their mission, they were being sent back to their homes on the east side of the Jordan. Joshua acknowledges their dedication and loyalty, but he also issues a crucial reminder: to continue following God’s commandments. He emphasizes the importance of loving the Lord, walking in obedience, keeping His commands, holding fast to Him, and serving Him with all their heart and soul.
Faithfulness and obedience are crucial in our spiritual journey. Just as the Reubenites, Gadites, and Manassehites remained committed to their mission, we are called to remain steadfast in our walk with God. Even after achieving milestones and fulfilling specific tasks, our dedication to God should remain unwavering. Moreover, Joshua’s reminder highlights the ongoing nature of our relationship with God. It is not enough to be faithful for a season; we must continually strive to live according to His commandments and nurture our love for Him. Our spiritual journey is a lifelong commitment, requiring us to hold fast to God and serve Him wholeheartedly. Are there areas where you can renew your commitment to God? How can you deepen your obedience and love for Him?
Prayer: Lord, help us to remain faithful and obedient to You. Strengthen our commitment and love for You, and guide us in our walk with You every day. Amen.
ONE YEAR BIBLE READING
DAY 92 Judges 8-9: Luke 8:22-56
SEEK UNDERSTANDING BEFORE JUDGMENT
Joshua 22:15–25
Be completely humble and gentle; be patient, bearing with one another in love. Ephesians 4:2
We live in a world that often prioritizes judgment over understanding. Social media and even our daily conversations can become arenas of quick conclusions and harsh critiques. However, as believers, we are called to live differently. Today’s study challenges us to seek understanding before we cast judgment, reflecting God’s grace and truth in our relationships and interactions. Misunderstandings often lead to conflict, even among God’s people. Our text teaches us the importance of seeking understanding before making judgments. The tribes of Israel were quick to assume rebellion but avoided unnecessary conflict through investigation and dialogue. The western tribes assumed rebellion and prepared for war. However, their willingness to investigate and dialogue prevented unnecessary conflict.
Judgment involves forming opinions or conclusions about people or situations. While discernment is necessary in life, rash or uninformed judgment can harm relationships and misrepresent God’s love. Communication is crucial in resolving misunderstandings. In Matthew 7:1-5, Jesus cautions against hypocritical judgment, reminding us to examine our hearts before addressing the faults of others. He calls us to remove the “plank” in our own eyes before we focus on the “speck” in our neighbour’s eye. Challenge yourself today to pause before judging others. Seek to understand their story, ask God to reveal their heart, and respond with the same grace and mercy He extends to you.
Prayer: Lord, thank You for Your unending grace and patience with us. Help us to seek understanding before passing judgment. Amen.
ONE YEAR BIBLE READING
DAY 93 Judges 10-11: Luke 9:1-36
COURAGE IN OBEDIENCE
Joshua 23:1–8
Therefore be very courageous to keep and to do all that is written in the Book of the Law of Moses, lest you turn aside from it to the right hand or to the left Joshua 23:6
The theme of courage in obedience is highlighted as Joshua delivers his farewell address to the leaders of Israel. In this chapter, Joshua reminds the Israelites of God’s faithfulness and challenges them to continue living in obedience to His commands. Today, we consider a foundational aspect of our walk with God: courage in obedience. Obedience to God often demands stepping out of our comfort zones, facing challenges, and standing firm in faith. Courage, empowered by trust in God, enables us to follow His will even when it seems difficult or risky.
God’s commands often challenge our human tendencies, whether it’s forgiving those who hurt us, standing up for righteousness, or walking into unknown situations. Joshua is a prime example. After Moses’ death, God called Joshua to lead Israel into the Promised Land—a daunting task. Yet, God reassured him, “Be strong and courageous.” The basis of true courage is not self-confidence but God-confidence. In Isaiah 41:10, God declares, “Fear not, for I am with you; be not dismayed, for I am your God.” The fruit of obedience often lies on the other side of fear. When Peter stepped out of the boat to walk on water, his courage to obey Jesus’ call allowed him to experience a miracle (Matthew 14:29). Obedience is not always easy, but it is always worth it. Courage in obedience stems from the assurance that God goes before us, walks with us, and works through us.
Prayer: Father, we thank You for Your constant presence and faithfulness. Fill us with courage to obey You in every area of our lives. Amen.
ONE YEAR BIBLE READING
DAY94 Judges 12-14: Luke 9:37-62
English 
French