8So the Israelites allotted to the Levites these towns and their pasturelands, as the Lord had commanded through Moses. - P102
When Moses was the leader of Israel, God commanded him that towns and pasturelands be allotted to the Levites in the land of Canaan. Now, the Israelites are under Joshua’s leadership. When the Levites remind Joshua of God’s command to Moses, Joshua and the people obey. There is not even a hint of grumbling or opposition. And through their unity in obedience, the Levites are provided for. This one verse speaks volumes about the spiritual condition of the people at the time. They recognized that this command given under the leadership of Moses was issued by God. - P104
When God’s people are united in obedience to His words, our unity bears good fruit that blesses others. - P104
Several cities in the promised land are referred to as "a city of refuge forone accused of murder." This does not refer to intentional murder, but towhat we would call manslaughter. Those who flee to these cities for asylumwould be protected against the blood vengeance regularly practiced duringthis time. The cities of refuge are all cities allotted to the Levites-to thosecalled to minister to God‘s people. - P104
God‘s mercy is the refuge for all who findthemselves in times of distress and fear for their future. What a message thisis for our churches! God has made believers "a royal priesthood" (1 Pet. 2:9)and the church is called to be a place of refuge for those who are frightenedby the brokenness of this world. - P104
Galatians 6:2 instructs us, "Carry each other‘s burdens, and in this way youwill fulfill the law of Christ." You are in a unique position to use the talentsand resources God has given you to bless those around you, for their goodand for His glory. How is God calling you to provide for others today? - P105
Lord God, today I pray for my church. May we walk together in the unity that Your Spirit brings, and may we be a place of refuge for those who need to receive Your grace and mercy. In Jesus’ name, amen. - P105
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