Casting Lots

Text: Joshua 18:2 – 19:20 Theme: Our part is to survey and seek; God’s part is to solidify Key verses: “So Joshua said to the Israelites: ‘How long will you wait before you begin to take possession of the land that the Lord, the God of your fathers, has given you? Appoint 3 men from each tribe. I will send them out to make a survey of the land…Then they will return to me.” (v. 3-4) “So the men left and went through the land. They wrote its description on a scroll…and returned to Joshua…Joshua then cast lots for them in Shiloh in the presence of the Lord, and there he distributed the land of the Israelites according to their tribal divisions. The lot came up for the tribe of Benjamin…Their alloted territory lay between the tribes of Judah and Joseph…” (v. 9-11) What God said to me: Dwayne, first of all, do not think I am ok with how you conducted yourself last night. I know the evil schemes of your heart. You must keep your eyes and mind fixed on me and not on this world. You know the boundaries I have laid in your life. Do not even once cross them. Yet, that is what you did yesterday. You crossed a line. Yes, I forgave you before you even went there. You are whole in my site today because of my Son. However, I am determined you will be conformed into His image. I know how to spank my children if needed… Now concerning this passage, the truth here is a continuation of the boundaries idea from the other day. I expect you to survey every corner and area of opportunity you find. I expect you to seek out all you can discover about potential blessings and areas of ministry around you. Ask, seek, knock – first and foremost to me vertically, but then also toward others horizontally. Nonetheless, don’t forget to leave the results in my hands. Remember, the whole lot is up to me. I determine your goings in and comings out. You can and need to plan your way, but  I am the Lord who determines your steps. Those Israelite scouts no doubt had their eye set on certain land more than on other portions. But the final choice for them was mine. (By the way, that’s a good thing since I’m a good God and know exactly what is best for you and want more than anything for you to have it!) What I said to God: Ok, so I get it. Here is my God holding out His hand to offer me the very best of the land, the very best of blessings simply because He loves me. So why would I get all bent out of shape when things don’t work out like I had hoped? Did I pray? Did I seek and knock fervantly and persistently and humbly? Am I walking with my God? Throwing the die and waiting on God to turn the pieces according to His will – now that’s a “gamble” I am willing to take! Thank You, holy and awesome and powerful Maker and Master. Forgive me for taking my eyes off of You if only for a few moments. I will serve You and You alone today.