The Battle Begins - Chapter 7 Recap

Why, in the upper story, is God giving the Israelites the land of Canaan?

1.  God is not so much giving it to Israel as God is taking it away from the Amorites because of their wickedness (Genesis 15:16).  The conquest of Israel may seem unfair and brutal, but it reflects the justice and righteousness of God who steps in and removes detestable wickedness.

2.  God wants to establish God's name, in order to give the Israelites an identity in an identifiable land, and to make God's self known to the surrounding nations.

Application for this week?

God wants to make God's name known in our community, which God does through God's relationship with us, God's church.  God is inviting us to be strong and courageous as we face this giant vision!

Right now, St. Paul's UMC is living out the vision of a unified community, a community seeking to be in the Book together, a community seeking to pray together, and reflect God's glory to the world - Together.  How are you living this out in your personal life - and are you sharing it with your family, friends, neighbors?

Be strong and be courageous!