Today's Scripture
Joshua 18:1
Today’s Reading Schedule: joshua 16-18 Click to read
The whole assembly of the Israelites gathered at Shiloh and set up the Tent of Meeting there. The country was brought under their control, but there were still seven Israelite tribes who had not yet received their inheritance.
Devotion
What Does the passage Mean to Me/US?
As in yesterday’s reading, we see very detailed allotments of land for specific groups of people. The details specify particular geographic boundaries as well as name all of the clans that will occupy each area. Within these long lists of names and places a couple of things stand out. In chapter 17, we see that Zelophehad had only daughters and no sons for his inheritance. The young women went to the priest and stated that “The Lord commanded Moses to give us an inheritance among our brothers.” That request was honored as Moses had made a promise to them. Moses honored the Lord’s command and the priest honored that promise coming through Moses directly from God.
At the beginning of chapter 18, the key verse above notes that the Tent of Meeting was established at Shiloh. It would have contained the Ark of the Covenant and the Tent remained there until the time of Samuel. The Israelites did not forget to establish a holy place for the Lord within their midst. Worship was an essential aspect of the community and set them apart as God’s people.
How can we apply these passages to our lives today? We see the importance of following God’s commands and subsequently being rewarded with His inheritance as were the daughters. We also need to remember to always seek His holy presence in the midst of our daily lives. The Israelites established the Tent of Meeting; whereas, we have weekly worship and personal devotion times in which to seek God’s presence. It is so easy to slip away from these disciplines, but our lives are more abundant and joyful when we stay in touch with God’s community and His holy presence.
Prayer
Lord, we remember that you are the giver of life and the sustainer of our being. In the midst of our daily journey, help us to follow your guidelines for abundant living and to seek your presence in all that we do.In Jesus Christ. Amen.
Contributed by Luci Wright
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