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MOSES PREPARES ISRAEL TO ENTER CANAAN
FRIDAY, JULY 23
Deuteronomy 3:18-29

1 Peter 3:8-9

 

“Finally, be ye all of one mind, having
compassion one of another, love as

brethren, be pitiful, be courteous.”

 

MOSES PREPARES ISRAEL TO ENTER CANAAN
 
When the tribes of Reuben, Gad and the half tribe of Manasseh had possessed the land east of Jordan, Israel was now set to enter Canaan under the leadership of Joshua. Moses desired to go, but the Lord reaffirmed His earlier assertion that Moses would not enter Canaan. Moses praised the greatness of God as He manifested His sovereignty. Joshua was thus set to succeed Moses and he was well suited for the job. Now was the preparation for that transition.
 
Moses called for unity of all Israel and commanded the three tribes to aid in the acquisition of the land God had promised them. Earlier when they requested to be given the land that was taken from the kings of the Amorites, Moses had strictly charged them and made them swear that they were going to remain one with the rest of their brethren. They were to wage war together until they possessed their inheritance. He was speaking with the awareness of that agreement. Moses had led them for forty years and they had maintained their unity. This was how they were able to succeed in every task they sought to accomplish. The settlement of all Israel in the Promised Land was the chief aim and it was the reason they left Egypt. If this was not sustained, they would fall prey to their enemies. Moses was conscious of this fact and he reminded Israel that this was the key to their survival.
 
The land to the east of Jordan that they had possessed was considered safe, thus the three tribes that were given the land would live in peace. Moses instructed them to leave their wives and cattle and to cross over Jordan to fight with their brethren until they were all settled. Then they could return to the land that He had given to them. He said that the Lord would give rest to their brethren. The action of Israel in waging war to possess the land is an answer to those “quick-fix” preachers of today. It is true that any achievement that man can make is from the Lord, but let him do his part.
 
THOUGHT: Unity of believers is a testimony of Christian love.
PRAYER: Father, may I always cooperate with my brethren in service for Thee.

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