Today’s Thought “Salvation Without Obedience?” G. Ward

“It came about when Israel became strong, that they put the Canaanites to forced labor, but they did not drive them out completely.” Judges 1:28

Guilt, although circumstantial, ultimately is categorized as wrong and regretful for those seeking righteousness. Joshua, the leader of the Israelites (after Moses) led by example the actuality of Holy God’s command by killing 31 kings of Canaan (Josh.12:9-24) and seizing the territory promised (Josh.11:23). Joshua set a tone in perfect obedience, but his death left these new inhabitants fearful; causing a presumed spirit of conquering thereafter that introduced chaos for generations to follow (cf. Judg.2:10).

Will our sins in partial obedience visit our great grandchildren (Nu.14:18), or will Monday’s presentation in Matchless Mercy demand reciprocity from us?