Girl Read Your Bible: Guided Bible Reading Plan Volume 2نموونە

The book of Joshua inaugurates a new genre as we are introduced to the historical books. These narratives chronicle Israel's journey into the Promised Land and its eventual return from exile. Specifically, the book of Joshua centers on Joshua, who served as Moses' assistant and later assumed leadership to guide the Israelites into the land promised by God. As we delve into Chapter 1, we encounter three distinct speeches. Firstly, God addresses Joshua, appointing him to succeed Moses, who has passed away. God emphasizes that the time has come for the people to enter Canaan, as the previous generation has passed on, and now it is their children and descendants who will settle in the land. God reaffirms His promise to Joshua, declaring, "Every place that the sole of your foot will tread upon I have given to you, just as I promised Moses" (Joshua 1:3). Throughout the first nine verses, God repeatedly encourages Joshua to be"strong and courageous."It's important to note these repetitions as we navigate through the historical accounts. Additionally, observe how the narrative unfolds to reveal God's character. In the opening of Joshua, we witness God's faithfulness in fulfilling His promises. God concludes His conversation with Joshua by commanding him not to fear or be discouraged, for He will be with him wherever he goes. I find it remarkable how God consistently comforts Joshua as he assumes this significant role, stepping into the shoes of such a prominent leader. Joshua faces the daunting task of continuing Moses' legacy and leading a nation into a land they must conquer. Yet, God leaves no room for doubt, worry, or discouragement, but instead consoles Joshua as he embraces his new role.

In the second speech, encompassing verses 10-15, Joshua directs the officers of the people to prepare for the imminent possession of the land within three days. He also reminds the tribes of Reuben, Gad, and the half tribe of Manasseh of the instructions Moses had conveyed to them. These tribes were to aid the other tribes in securing their land before settling in the territories they had chosen for themselves (Numbers 32:6-7, 16-8, 28; Deuteronomy 3:18-20).

In the final speech of chapter 1, the people respond to Joshua, pledging obedience to him as they had done with Moses, and they encourage him to remain strong and courageous. Subsequently, Joshua clandestinely dispatches two spies to reconnoiter the land before launching the conquest. At this time, Canaan consisted of city-states, each governed by its own king, with Jericho emerging as one of the most formidable cities. Conquering Jericho would pave the way for Israel to seize control of the entire territory. Joshua demonstrates profound trust in God by taking proactive steps, such as sending spies to assess the situation. The spies seek refuge in the house of a prostitute named Rahab, attempting to maintain a low profile, but their presence is discovered, leading to word reaching the king.

Rahab, upon being ordered by the king to surrender the spies, deceives the king's men by claiming that the spies had already departed. This diversionary tactic grants the spies a chance to escape, but it also exposes Rahab to considerable risk. Despite this danger, she aids their escape, extracting a promise from them to spare her and her family's lives. This pact serves as a confirmation of the Israelites' future victory over Jericho, recalling the miraculous deeds performed by God (Joshua 2:8-14). Rahab is instructed to mark her house with a scarlet rope and gather her family inside, ensuring their safety when the city falls. Rahab's remarkable faith is noteworthy, especially considering her inclusion among the four women mentioned in the genealogy of Christ in Matthew 1. Upon their return, the two spies convey to Joshua a detailed account of their encounter, delivering the news of God's assurance of victory over the land.

The time arrives for the people to embark on their journey, so they set out for Shittim. Along the way, they reach the Jordan River, but before crossing, they camp there for three days. Joshua instructs the people to consecrate themselves because the Lord is about to perform a mighty act among them. The Lord assures Joshua that He will exalt him before all the people, demonstrating His presence with Joshua just as He had been with Moses. God promises to drive out the nations before them as a sign of His presence. Joshua commands the people to select twelve men, one from each tribe. When the priests carrying the Ark of the Covenant step into the water, it will cease flowing, just as it did when Moses parted the Red Sea. It's worth noting that this event occurs during the harvest season when the Jordan River is at its fullest, making the miracle even more remarkable. Indeed, as the priests' feet touch the water, the river stops flowing, allowing all of Israel to cross over on dry land until the entire nation has safely passed.