Day 89, Chronological Bible Study Timeline. Map. Go to today’s Bible reading (use your browser arrow to return): Joshua 20:1–21:42; 1Chronicles 6:54-81; Joshua 21:43-45
Refuge and Direction
Where do we find refuge when we are in danger from someone? Where can we find clarification about the laws of our society? These are the answers that God supplies for the Israelites in today’s Bible reading. The principles we learn from them are helpful to us.
Where can the accused flee when they are innocent?
In today’s Bible reading, cities of refuge and the Levites are dispersed throughout the land of Israel. Three sanctuary cities are located east of the Jordan River in the northern, central, and southern areas of the land. Three sanctuary cities are also located west of the Jordan in the north, mid, and southern regions of the land. These are places of safety where someone might flee if he accidentally kills someone. They protect him from the avenger of blood until his case is decided. If it is discovered that the accused person is guilty of murder, the elders of the city must hand him over to the avenger to be executed. However, if he is innocent, he must remain in the city until the high priest’s death (perhaps to let things cool off and protect the accused). Afterward, the person can return to his home.
The placement of sanctuary cities throughout Israel makes it accessible for everyone, provides protection and justice for the one who is innocent of murder, and prevents needless bloodshed.
Today, we have security personnel scattered throughout our towns and cities. Their purpose is to serve the public, informing and enforcing society’s laws. Yes, we have all heard of bad cops, but the vast majority are good people whom God has ordained to serve our community. We should seek their advice and help when we need it, live lawfully, and submit to their authority instead of rebelling. That is God’s will for us (Romans 13:1-6)
Where can we go to understand God’s law, his Word?
In today's Bible reading, the Levites are also dispersed throughout Israel. This was predicted by the Patriarch Jacob for Levi and Simeon’s complicit killing of all the men in Shechem. The two brothers did this because a Shechemite man raped their sister (Genesis 49:5-7).
Later in Israel’s history, the Levites and Phinehas (a son of a high priest) stood on the side of the LORD against immorality. Because of this, God showed the Levites grace; although scattered among the tribes, they will now be his servants and priests regarding the tabernacle (Exodus 32:26-29; Numbers 25:11-13) and later the temple.
Along with leading in worship and taking care of the tabernacle and its services, the Levites also teach God’s law and provide direction (Deuteronomy 17:9-11; 27:12-26). Since the Levites are scattered throughout Israel and do not inherit any land, God gives them towns with pastureland throughout the tribes to raise livestock. Their presence throughout Israel is intended to provide a good moral influence on the rest of the Israelites, and their spiritual instruction should bring reverence for God and more order and peace to the community. A typical Israelite has access to the Levites whenever he has questions about the law. Unfortunately, we will later learn that the Levites do not carry out their responsibilities to teach the people.
What about us? We who are Christians are scattered throughout our neighborhoods, our towns, and cities. Are we influencing people for good throughout the world? Are we available and approachable? Do people know they can come to us if they have some questions about spiritual matters?
Where do we flee when we need refuge for our souls? Today, we do not need to go to a priest—we can look directly to God for help. Jesus Christ, God’s Son, offers us forgiveness, peace, and spiritual life (more...). His Word, the Bible, gives us direction for living, and we can get further guidance from leaders in good Bible-following churches.
God is Faithful
God was faithful to keep his promise to the Levites in giving them towns surrounded by pasturelands. He was faithful to grant land to the two and one-half tribes east of the Jordan River, who first fought with the other Israelites for their inheritance. And, God was faithful to the rest of the tribes of Israel.
So the LORD gave Israel all the land he had sworn to give their forefathers, and they took possession of it and settled there. The LORD gave them rest on every side, just as he had sworn to their forefathers. Not one of their enemies withstood them; the LORD handed all their enemies over to them. Not one of all the LORD’s good promises to the house of Israel failed; every one was fulfilled. (Joshua 21:45, NIV)
God keeps his promises. We may slip and falter in our faithfulness, but God never does. Praise the LORD!
Focus Verse
Psalm 145:13b “The LORD is faithful to all his promises and loving toward all he has made.” (NIV)
Endnote: An avenger of blood is a close relative who avenges the blood of the deceased.
Discussion
What was the importance of Sanctuary cities in Israel? Where can people find protection and help today?
Why might God have dispersed Christians throughout our society and the world?
How has God been faithful to us?
Sample prayer response to today’s Bible study: Dear Father, you are LORD of our life, yet you allow us to experience trouble. Sometimes we don't understand it, but we depend on you. Thank you that we can always flee to you and find refuge for our souls.
Thank you for the police in our communities to help us and enforce peace. I pray that I would cooperate with them. Bless them LORD, and give them wisdom and discernment-- their jobs are not easy.
I also pray that I would be a light in my community. That is not easy either. Forgive me for the times when I haven't been a light. May I live a holy life and be kind like Jesus so that you would be glorified and I can testify of your grace.
Praise the LORD--you are always faithful and keep your promises! I can rely upon you, my LORD and my God. Help me to stay faithful! In Jesus' name. Amen
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Looking Ahead: In our Next Lesson are the Last Words of Joshua. The last words of a godly person are valuable to us if we Pay Attention. Join us!
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