his instruction

doing a series on the book of Joshua at youth service
and I'm really finding it rather interesting!

i read a bit of chapter 7/8 and although its from the old testament, it really shows how important God's instruction is. For instance, Jericho, he clearly stated not to take anything from the ruins (Joshua 6:18-19). But because Achan did, there were consequences, he was exposed, his sin brought into the light and he and his family were stoned to death.

also, things were very brutal. in chapter 8, they bring down the city of Ai, and after they ambushed it and won, they hung the king and left him there for the day, brought him to the city gates at sunset and put up a pile of rocks.

interestingly, i noticed that both times, it said "which remains to this day". I think it really shows how powerful and lasting it is. Although now with the new covenant it isn't that strict, where if we confess our sins we are forgiven with the blood of Christ, but it really reinforces Romans 6:23, that the wages of sin is death. We do deserve death due to our sin, but his gracious love has set us free, we are ransomed!

from this i take that we should follow his will, we do have free will and choice whether or not to, but why not? he's the King of Kings, Lord of Lords, and he knows whats perfect and best for us.


verse of the day: Proverbs 4:13

¹³ 

Hold on to instruction, do not let it go;    guard it well, for it is your life.