MONDAY 6TH APRIL
TEXT: Joshua 16:1-10
KEY VERSE: “And they drave not out the Canaanites that dwelt in Gezer: but the Canaanites dwell among the Ephraimites unto this day, and serve under tribute.” – (Joshua 16:10)
A Christian leader once said, “Obedience to God’s word begins by being determined to make no compromise with His ways. It requires a clear understanding that God’s rules and laws are for your benefit and for you to do all you can to live by them.” Therefore, obedience to God is not optional for the Christian. We are called to a life of total obedience.
By virtue of the blessing invoked on Joseph, his two children, Manasseh and Ephraim became full-fledged tribes like other children of Jacob. Ephraim was Joseph’s second born while Manasseh was the firstborn; yet Ephraim, the younger one featured more prominently in the records. Furthermore, the records show that the heritage of Ephraim was much and it extended into the portions of the children of Manasseh. The Ephraimites had the might to fight the Canaanites and they did. They even overcame them. But they did not drive out the enemies. Instead, they put them under tribute and turned them into slaves; thereby, disobeying the instruction of God not to cohabit with the Canaanites. The outcome of this foundational mistake was effectively captured by Hosea thus: “Ephraim, he hath mixed himself among the people; Ephraim is a cake not turned” – (Hosea 7:8).
Christians who excuse sin for sundry reasons do so at the risk of their eternal destiny. Disobedience to clear instructions from God is a grave mistake that will eventually inflict incalculable damage on any individual. Make the right decision today and commit yourself to a lifetime of full obedience to God in keeping your spiritual heritage.
THOUGHT FOR THE DAY: Obedience has no substitute.
THE BIBLE IN ONE YEAR: John 19-21
Got more time? Study Open Heaven devotional for today.
