Reading for today
Old Testament: Joshua 21, 22, 23
New Testament: John 2
Thoughts from today’s reading
Joshua 22:10-34. The tribes of Reuben, Gad and Manasseh had built an altar on their side of the Jordan. This seemed to go against the laws of God and so the other tribes were ready to obey the law that says to go to war against any tribe that is forsaking the Lord. However, before they did that, they sent some ambassadors to speak with the 3 tribes. That intervention of the ambassadors who were trying to understand why the 3 tribes had built the altar saved them all from war.
These verses here show the power of diplomacy which is key for relationships among family, friends, colleagues and acquaintances. Jesus said if someone offends you, go to them with the matter first before taken any hostile action.
John 2:1-12. At this wedding, the wine ran out and Jesus was approached to help. The wine he made for them was much better than what they had abjured for themselves.
Reaching out to God in a time of need is always the best thing to do. He will always supply what we need much better than we can work it up for ourselves.
Prayer
1. Father we pray and forgive others as you also forgave us. Jesus said we should take steps to resolve issues with those that have offended us by speaking to them or taking arbitrators with us to speak with them so as to reach a peaceful resolution. Father wherever we hold on to anger and wrong conclusions, we pray helps to let them go and reach out in love to others.
2. Lord, you said we can come boldly to your throne to obtain mercy to help us in a time of need. You said that you supply all our need according to your riches in glory. I trust you to meet all my needs and I thank you that what you give to me is much better than what I can labour for myself.