Altar by the Jordan

Chapter 22, in the book of Joshua, is a rather interesting tale.  It is a tale about an altar.

Joshua told the tribes of Reuben, Gad, and East Manasseh that they could have the land east side of the Jordan River, and that they were to be rewarded for their loyalty to the Israelites and to the Lord.  They were given many riches, and sent on their way.

Just before entering their new lands, they built a great altar.  This act angered many of the other tribes because they thought the tribes of Reuben, Gad, and East Manasseh were rebelling against the Lord.  When confronted, they told them the altar was a reminder for generations to come that their people do indeed worship the Lord.  It was to be a symbol of their great faith.

The Lord was pleased.

And so was the rest of the tribes.

The lessons on this could be such that if you see someone performing an act you don't feel is right, instead of downright calling them back, talk to them.  The reasons could be completely different than what was originally thought.  So many times in our lives we take things for granted and assume--well, you know what they mean about assuming (or, rather, ass-u-ming).

Further dividing of territory in Israel

In the book of Joshua, chapters 18 through 21, there is the final dividing of the territory of Israel to the clans.

There are seven remaining clans, and each are given territories throughout the kingdom.

Then the cities of refuge are chosen--these cities house those accused of accidentally causing the death of another, keeping them from harm from the victim's family.

The Levites--the priests--are then given their own cities, all according to Moses's promise to them.

In the end of chapter 21, all of the Israelites are settled into the lands God had promised them.  None of their enemies had been able to stand against them.

What is it with those Canaanites and Jebusites?

Chapters 15 through 17 of the book of Joshua deal with a lot of specific land territory being divided up amongst the people of Israel.  It's a very analytical piece, with cities and specific areas of land being named.

The majority of it doesn't mean much, although there are a few tales told that did spark some interest.

In chapter 15, starting with verse 16, Caleb and his people come to a city that needs attacking.  He offers up one of his daughters as a prize to the one who conquers it.

At the end of chapter 15, there is a notation that states the people of Judah were unable to drive out the Jebusites, and that the Jebusites still live there with the people of Judah.  Also, at the end of chapter 16, the Canaanites were unable to be driven out as well and were forced to work as slaves.  Why these two peoples, the Jebusites and Canaanites, were singled out as being unable to be driven out is beyond my knowledge.

Then again, further readings throughout the Bible may turn up the answer.

Security in God's Presence

Psalms 16 is short and offers a quick lift of confidence in knowing God is in one's life.

You trust him for safety.

God's people are a fantastic group to be around.

The Lord gives one all they need, and in worshipping other idols, nothing good can come of it.

God's power protects one over death.  One will not be abandoned.  Trusting in God will lead to better security, as He shows you the path to lead your life.