Secret Prostitute Spy (Joshua 2:1–14). Two secret spies sent to scout out Jericho are kept safe by the prostitute Rahab. She makes righteous lies to protect them. When is lying in this unholy world justified? Even more, she makes the bold confession that the LORD is the only true living God. This prostitute will go on to be in the lineage of the Messiah. (see Matt 1:5) #dailydevotion #Lutherandevotional #DailyPlunge #DailyLectionary #DailyScripture #BookofJoshua

Strong Courageous Faith (Joshua 1:1–18). Where the disobedience made Moses forfeit the promised inheritance, Joshua is called to be strong and courageous in obeying God’s commands. How are we to be strong and courageous when we know we don’t obey all the LORD commands?  #dailydevotion #Lutherandevotional #DailyPlunge #DailyLectionary #DailyScripture #BookofJoshua

Judging Murderous Refugees (Numbers 35:1–3,9–15,30–34). The LORD establishes precedent for executing justice in an imperfect society. The rule of Law does not bring grace, but it does bring judgment. Even for murderers, God creates ways to preserve life.

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Proxy Spiritual Warfare (Numbers 32:1–6, 16–27). Are we willing to go to spiritual battle after we get our comfort? Will we arm ourselves for battle on behalf of others? Will we do the wield the Word and Faith to help others in their spiritual struggle?

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Handing A New Leader (Numbers 27:12–23). In the transition from Moses to Joshua, we see the characteristics of a godly leader. Leading people to trust in God’s promises is challenging. Joshua is appointed to lead God’s people through different challenges but the same message: God alone saves.

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Ultimate Positive Mode (Numbers 24:12–25). Balaam is not done giving unwanted blessings upon God’s people. These are the words of one whose eyes are opened by God. Opposite of fear, Hope is the positive mode of anticipating the future.

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Preaching Heard Word (Numbers 24:1–13). Learning to drop divination, Balaam discovers the Spirit of God by recognizing the revelation of God’s deliverance. Now Balaam preaches from the word he hears from God rather than speculative theology.

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Failed Cursing Divination (Numbers 23:1–23:26). Who is Balaam sacrificing to? God puts His Word in Balaam’s mouth. Unlike humans who lie, the LORD speaks, then acts; God promises, then fulfills. God calls Israel into existence and is sign of what God has done!

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Reckless Stubborn God (Numbers 22:21–38). Balaam the seer thinks he can cajole the LORD like he does with pagan idols to do his will. The stubborn God will use anything for his purposes. So the LORD uses a voiceless donkey to warn a blind seer.

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For-Hire Pagan Soothsayer (Numbers 22:1–21). Great dread comes over the pagan king so he shops for a mercenary soothsayer, Balaam. The LORD will not be stymied by outside spiritual forces. His blessing will prevail not only over the opponents, but even through the opponents.

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