Revelations 22:12-21

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Read Revelations 22:12-21 Verses for meditation: Revelations 22:12-13, 16, 20-21 ESV: 12 "Behold, I am coming soon, bringing my recompense with me, to repay each one for what he has done. 13 I am the Alpha and the Omega, the first and the last, the beginning and the end.” 16 “I, Jesus, have sent my angel to testify to you about these things for the churches. I am the root and the descendant of David, the bright morning star.” 20 He who testifies to these things says, “Surely I am coming soon." Amen. Come, Lord Jesus! 21 The grace of the Lord Jesus be with all. Amen. Reflect How does it feel to be reading the very last few verses of the bible? What do the proclamations, the last few of them, say about Christ? Come, Lord Jesus! Does this really express our desire? How does the greatest book end, and on what note? But is this really the end? Relate With mixed feelings, I'm writing this last devotion based on the final ten verses of the greatest book, the bible. What a journe...
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Joshua 11-12; Psalm 126

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Read: Joshua 11-12; Psalm 126 

Verse chosen for meditation: Joshua 12:7 Here is a list of the kings of the land that Joshua and the Israelites conquered on the west side of the Jordan, from Baal Gad in the Valley of Lebanon to Mount Halak, which rises toward Seir. Joshua gave their lands as an inheritance to the tribes of Israel according to their tribal divisions.


Reflect

Why is it so important for God to list the number of kings which Joshua and Moses had defeated? The point was not to narrate the heroism of both servants of God, but rather to recount the number of times God fought the battles for them. It was also a reminder of how God used Moses and Joshua mightily through their faithfulness and obedience. 


It is a rather long list to read, but each of these happened historically and affected real lives. We can do well not to underestimate their importance. I mean, if we are one of the tribes that gained victory with the help of God, a land won was cause for great celebration. 


This was because victory meant a land to be possessed for rest and settlement. That meant that the Day had finally arrived, where there was no longer a need to go to war. No longer a need to subject oneself to the possibility of death under the sword. That also meant being a part of history when God's promise to Israel had been fulfilled. That was something definitely worth celebrating and to praise for God.


Relate

We live in a world very different from that of Joshua’s. The flow of information is so rapid these days that many a times, we lose empathy for those directly affected by such information. For example, when the big earthquake happened in Turkey and Syria (Feb 2023), many Singaporeans rushed to donate money and wares to Singapore Red Cross. How about now, do many of us still remember that there are millions rendered homeless because of the quake and praying for them? Or how about a recollection of how COVID torn through the fabrics of society and even the Church? 


We need constant reminders of how God is the pillar of our strength. How we can win victories after victories all because God was there and give grace. 


Same thing for Joshua and Israel. God knows that they (and hence we as well) can be a forgetful lot. We tend to move from one fad to another. Therefore, God took the trouble to recount each of these victories to help Israel remember of His might and promise. After all, settling in the Promised Land was only the beginning of their life in the very presence of God.


In similar ways, for us, it can be tedious to read such historical details in the Bible. It can be tedious to recount the blessings and victories of God in our lives. Yet, a constant self-reminder of these good things that God had done; can help us in our walk with God. Especially in days, where the future seem bleak. In days when we face disappointments, discouragements and even betrayal. 


So what is a list of kings which God had helped you to conquer in your life? I believe there would be many. If only, we take the trouble, to recount, give thanks, learn and grow in our faithfulness to God. 


Rest

Lord our God, help us to have a posture of thanksgiving and contentment. Help us to recount your blessings, victories and even defeats in our life. This is so we are constantly on a learning journey with You and about You. This we pray in Jesus’ Name. Amen.


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