Joshua Devotionals

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Day 1: Partnership with God
Day 2: Prepared Obedience
Day 3: Our Hearts Melted
Day 4: Rescue & Salvation for You & Your Family
Day 5: Prepare Yourself for Battle
Day 6: In the Dry Times
Day 7: No Turning Back
Day 8: What on Earth?
Day 9: Have You Been Captivated By God?
Day 10: When the Walls Still Stand
Day 11: Obedience in the Waiting
Day 12: Faith That Obeys, Judgement That Awakens
Day 13: The Hidden Cost of Compromise
Day 14: The High Cost of Hidden Sin
Day 15: When Sin is Brought to Light
Day 16: Restoration After Repentance
Day 17: Faith in Action: When Obedience meets Strategy
Day 18: Finish Strong: Endurance in God’s Assignment
Day 19: Worship in the Shadow of Grace
Day 20: Two Strategies, One Enemy
Day 21: When Good Intentions Fall Short
Day 22: Grace in the Shadow of Deception
Day 23: A Covenant-Keeping God in the Face of Fear
Day 24: Faithfulness in the Fight
Day 25: The God Who Fights for You
Day 26: Victory Through Obedience and Trust
Day 27: Secured by God, Strengthened Through Obedience
Day 28: Preparing Ground Before the Promise
Day 29: Counting the Victories—God’s Faithfulness in Every Battle
Day 30: Still Work To Do
Day 31: Your Inheritance Is Secure
Day 32: When God Chooses Your Portion
Day 33: Give Me This Mountain
Day 34: A Faithful Inheritance
Day 35: The Gift and the Challenge
Day 36: The Danger of Incomplete Obedience
Day 37: Living Fully in What God has Already Given
Day 38: How Long Will You Wait?
Day 39: The God Who Keeps His Promises
Day 40: God’s Provision in Every Portion
Day 41: Faithful to the End
Day 42: Our Refuge in Christ
Day 43: A Refuge for All
Day 44: Scattered To Shine
Day 45: Fully Possessed, Fully Promised
Day 46: Faithful to The End
Day 47: A Witness Between Us: The Power of Peaceful Confrontation and Restored Unity
Day 48: Total Obedience in The Word of God
Day 49: No Peace With The Enemy
Day 50: God’s Faithfulness Works Both Ways
Day 51: Remember What God has Done
Day 52: Choosing Covenant With The Lord
Day 53: Finishing Well

Where do you feel the Lord is calling you? Do you have the faith and confidence to walk into what He has called you to?

The Lord had a plan for His Children – the Israelites, to lead them into a land that they would possess – a land that later would be the grounds of salvation. In order to conquer this land, the Israelites had to fight and rise up against opposition. However, spoiler alert, the Israelites did not fight alone, they had a fearless leader (Joshua) and they had the Most High God leading them and coming alongside them to fight their battles. 

What battles do you see yourself facing when it comes to your walk with the Lord? Are you partnering with the Lord?

Israel could possess the land ONLY as God worked both in them and through them. However, God did not remove their enemies while they remained passive; instead, He invited them to actively partner with Him in bringing His will to fulfillment.

Sometimes, when we encounter battles it is difficult to remember that God is with us, but the same promises He gave to Joshua and the Israelites, remain the same for us.. “..I will be with you, I will not leave you or forsake you” (Joshua 1:5). He commanded them to “Be strong and courageous..” (Joshua 1:6) and He is whispering in our ears the exact same words when we face our battles. 

You may be asking yourself, “well, how do I partner with God”, and the response to that is simple, build a relationship with Him. It won’t happen overnight, but it’ll make your daily battles easier. Start by spending time in His word, get to know His character, His love for you – to strengthen you and equip you.  God tells Joshua in v.8 “This Book of the law shall not depart from your mouth, but you should meditate on it day and night..” There’s wisdom in the Word of God, and there is no wisdom greater than God’s.

Are you willing to trust God and His promise, that He is with us? Are you ready to obey Him and be strong and courageous? Are you ready to partner with God?

© 2025 April 17 – Amber Daffern

Previously, we looked into partnering with God in His calling on our lives – today, we look at the preparation and obedience to that call.

God was calling Joshua to lead His people into the Promise Land – but it didn’t just involve leaving Egypt , crossing the Jordan and settling into the land of Canaan – nope! It involved leaving Egypt, crossing the Jordan (which at this time, was a river of rushing waters), and CONQUERING the land… which meant, there was a great amount of battle before them.

Can you think of a time where God has called you to a place and it seemed like there was a trial after trial after trial lined up? This was the case for Israel – but God is faithful and brought them through it, and He will do the same for you.

In verse 9, the Lord is reminding Joshua, “Have I not commanded you? Be strong and courageous. Do not be frightened and do not be dismayed, for the Lord your God is with you, wherever you go”. What an amazing promise! And it pertains to us!

We see Joshua stepping up in obedience to God’s command. In verses 10–16, he begins to instill a sense of urgency among the Israelites about entering the land that God has prepared for them. He promptly starts assigning tasks and organizing the people. Joshua wasn’t wasting any time—God had given him clear instructions, and he was acting on them right away.

The Israelites’ response in verses 16–17 speaks volumes about Joshua’s leadership. He wasn’t leading for the sake of a title—he was leading because God had chosen him to guide His people into the Promised Land. This is clearly reflected in their words: “Whatever you have commanded us we will do, and wherever you send us we will go. Just as we obeyed Moses in all things, so we will obey you. Only may the LORD your God be with you, as He was with Moses!” Here, we see unity beginning to take shape as the people embrace Joshua’s leadership. He steps into the role as the head of the body that will move forward into God’s promise. Unity was crucial for them to walk in their calling and possess what God had set before them. Their willingness to follow Joshua served as confirmation of God’s word to him.

Are you ready to move forward into your calling with the Lord? By stepping forward in faith and obedience?

© 2025 April 20 – Amber Daffern

“9 and said to the men, “I know that the LORD has given you the land, and that the fear of you has fallen upon us, and that all the inhabitants of the land melt away before you. 10 For we have heard how the LORD dried up the water of the Red Sea before you when you came out of Egypt, and what you did to the two kings of the Amorites who were beyond the Jordan, to Sihon and Og, whom you devoted to destruction.[a] 11 And as soon as we heard it, our hearts melted, and there was no spirit left in any man because of you, for the LORD your God, he is God in the heavens above and on the earth beneath.”

This portion of the passage drew me in, it captivated me. Rahab had heard how the Lord gave the Israelites that land and although the scripture mentions that “fear” had fallen upon them, it was a sense of reverence and respect, coupled with a realization of God’s power and authority. Rahab had seen God’s supernatural work and therefore she had faith.

“31 By faith Rahab the prostitute did not perish with those who were disobedient, because she had given a friendly welcome to the spies.” Hebrews 11:31 ESV

Have you ever seen or heard about God moving in such an awesome way and immediately felt that “healthy fear?” The awe and wonder of His mighty hand?

Later in the passage, Rahab describes how their hearts “melted”—a reaction to the overwhelming realization of multiple powerful truths. They recognized that the Lord was greater than their Canaanite gods, that He performed miracles for His people by bringing them out of Egypt, that He empowered the Israelites to defeat mighty kings, and that He had promised them the land of Canaan.

What is making you lose courage? Or Hope? How can you ENCOURAGE or in this case “melt” your heart with the truth and promises of God? 

© 2025 April 23 – Amber Daffern

Rahab deeply cared for her family and longed to see them saved. Her strong faith in the Israelites led her to ask for an oath of protection—one that would welcome her and her family into the community of Israel. She was ready to leave behind her former life and culture to live in peace among God’s people.

The Israelites agreed and made a covenant with her—a promise to spare her and her family from the impending judgment.

Rahab’s faith in the God of Israel was proven through her courageous actions. She protected the Israelite spies because she truly believed in the power of Yahweh and the truth of His promises to His people, showing that her faith was alive through her works (James 2:25). With the city gates closed, Rahab helped the spies escape by lowering them from her window using a rope. As part of their agreement, she was instructed to tie a scarlet cord in her window—a sign to the Israelite army that those inside her home were to be spared. Despite her faith and the spies’ promise, Rahab’s salvation still depended on her obedience to display that scarlet cord.  The  cord can be seen as a symbol of the blood of Jesus, linking Rahab’s act to the greater story of redemption . By binding the cord in her window, Rahab openly declared her allegiance to the God of Israel and placed her trust in His deliverance.

In a sense, Joshua would be a savior for Rahab, but he would be a judge of the rest of Jericho. In the same way, Jesus is a savior for those who trust Him, but a judge for those who reject Him.

Just as Rahab longed to see her family saved, we too carry that same desire in our hearts. We yearn for the salvation of our loved ones, and in Acts 16:31, we see Paul offering a powerful promise to the prison keeper: “Believe in the Lord Jesus, and you will be saved—you and your household.” This is more than just a historical moment; it’s a promise the Holy Spirit can still make real to us today, stirring our faith to trust Him for the salvation of our families.

It’s important to understand that his household wasn’t saved simply because he believed—salvation isn’t something that can be received second-hand. Each member of his household was saved because they personally trusted in the Word of God and in Jesus as He is revealed through it. That’s why it’s so vital that we continue to share the love of Jesus and the truth of the Gospel with our families. As we plant seeds of faith, the Holy Spirit nurtures them, bringing about a harvest in His perfect timing.

I encourage you to keep praying for your family—keep loving them, teaching them, and living out the truth of the Gospel before them. Don’t forget the reminder in James 5:16: “Therefore, confess your sins to one another and pray for one another, that you may be healed. The prayer of a righteous person has great power as it is working.” You are that righteous person—not because of anything you’ve done, but because of what Jesus has done for you on the cross and your faith in Him.

© 2025 April 27 – Amber Daffern

This passage reveals a powerful spiritual battle strategy:

First, remove all unbelief – The Israelites had to remain in the wilderness for 40 years while the unbelieving generation passed away (I’d encourage you to read Numbers 14:1-10). In their place, a new generation of faith was raised up—one ready to trust in God’s promises. In this chapter, we see them on the brink of crossing the Jordan River, a monumental moment that marks their movement forward in faith and obedience.

Next, consecrate yourself by releasing worldly distractions and fully fixing your heart on the Lord. In this spiritual battle, we need clear direction from Him. The Israelites likely followed this step through the command God gave Moses in Exodus 19:10–14. But under the New Covenant, consecration looks different—it means laying aside all earthly thinking, strategies, and self-reliance, because His wisdom and His ways are all we truly need.

Next, attune your ears to His voice—“faith comes from hearing, and hearing by the word of Christ” (Romans 10:17). In this chapter, we see the Lord encouraging Joshua in verses 7 and 8, reminding us of His grace in strengthening His children to walk in His ways and fulfill His calling. When we consecrate ourselves—laying aside our own agendas—we make room for God to work through us, to raise us up as leaders, and to entrust us with His purpose. It’s a humbling and beautiful thing to be part of His plan.

Finally, respond with obedience and action. At times, God may call or lead us into situations that seem overwhelming or impossible to conquer. But as Jesus said in Luke 11:28, “Blessed rather are those who hear the word of God and obey it.” Just as He led the Israelites through the parted waters in this chapter, Jesus will walk with us through any challenge. Their obedience and action brought them into the Promised Land, and it was there that they would see victory in battle. Similarly, Jesus has already made a way for His people’s victory. As believers, we can trust that God will open miraculous paths for us, advancing His glorious Kingdom through our obedience.

Take a moment to reflect on where you stand in your battle plan with the Lord. Remember, these battles aren’t meant to be fought alone; you are in partnership with the One True God, who is always ready to make a way, even when it seems impossible.

© 2025 April 28 – Amber Daffern

In Joshua chapter 3, we read how the Lord stopped the waters of the Jordan, causing them to rise in heaps so that the Israelites could cross on dry ground. This marked the final miracle of their Exodus journey. After such a long and difficult path, the end was finally in sight. Like the Israelites, we too face journeys filled with trials—some longer and more challenging than others. Yet, no matter how difficult or drawn out the journey may seem, there is always a finish line. The challenges may be great, but the destination remains certain.

God was doing something miraculous—something only He could do—as He parted the waters of the Jordan so the Israelites could cross. Joshua recognized the significance of this moment and knew it needed to be remembered. It was a powerful display of God’s faithfulness: not only did He create a dry path through a rushing river, but He was also leading His people directly into the Promised Land—a promise first given to Abraham. Imagine that—being part of the fulfillment of a promise spoken 17 generations earlier! It was a truly monumental moment.

In response, Joshua built an altar right in the middle of the dry riverbed, at the very spot where the priests stood holding the Ark of the Covenant. Scripture tells us that this altar remains there to this day—a lasting testimony to God’s faithfulness. In seasons of drought or spiritual dryness, that altar stands as a reminder that God keeps His promises and makes a way, even when the path seems impossible.

The enemy will try to bring seasons of drought into our lives—times of discouragement, doubt, and weariness. But when we’ve established monuments that remind us of God’s faithfulness, the enemy’s plan backfires. That’s why it’s so important to prepare your “monuments” ahead of time—reminders that speak of God’s past victories in your life. These can be as simple as post-it notes on your mirror, verses on your wall, journal entries of answered prayers, or even a keepsake that reminds you of His power and presence.

Having these tangible reminders helps sustain you through the long and challenging parts of the journey. They speak to your soul when it’s tempted to forget, declaring that the same God who brought you through before will be faithful to do it again.

I’d encourage you to meditate on your “monuments of His faithfulness” and if you don’t have any readily available, take some time to make some. You’ll be thankful you did when you encounter your next journey!

© 2025 April 29 – Amber Daffern

Do you remember what your life was like before you encountered Christ? For many of us, it was marked by struggle—addiction, sin, pain, anger, frustration—you name it. Life without Him often felt overwhelming and empty. But when we encounter Christ, everything begins to change. He doesn’t transform us all at once, but gently and intentionally—layer by layer, He begins to heal, restore, and reshape us.

In Joshua, the Israelites cross the Jordan River and step into the Promised Land. This moment is a powerful picture of what it looks like to move from life without Christ into life with Him. Egypt represents our old life—filled with bondage, fear, sin, pride, and pain. But crossing the Jordan symbolizes our encounter with Jesus, where we begin to walk into His promises and the new life He offers.

This new life isn’t without its own battles, but it is a life filled with purpose, hope, and transformation. Just as the Israelites had to conquer the land one city at a time, we too are transformed one step at a time—each layer removed by Christ’s love, drawing us closer to who He’s called us to be.

After the Israelites had finished crossing—along with the priests and the Ark of the Covenant—the Lord caused the waters of the Jordan to return to their natural state, rushing and impassable once again. There was no going back to Egypt now, unless they were expert swimmers. As they stepped into unfamiliar territory, I can only imagine the mix of emotions—uncertainty, fear, maybe even a desire to return to the comfort of what they once knew. But God had different plans. He wasn’t calling them back—He was leading them forward.

The same is true for us. When we begin our walk with Christ, it can be tempting to fall back into old habits and familiar patterns. That old life may seem easier because it’s what we know, while following Jesus is a journey of faith, one step at a time. But with every step, every challenge, and every victory, He strengthens us. Like the Israelites, we are called to conquer new ground with Him—piece by piece.

As believers, we’re encouraged not to look back but to live fully in the new identity Christ has given us. Egypt—our old life—is behind us. The Promised Land lies ahead.

Take a moment to reflect: Have you crossed your Jordan? Do you sometimes find Egypt calling you back? If so, ask God to reignite your heart with a passion for the journey ahead. Ask Him to give you strength and excitement to press on, to take the land He’s prepared for you, and to walk boldly in the new life He’s given.

© 2025 April 30 – Amber Daffern

“Can you recall a time when you felt God prompting you to do something that seemed totally outrageous—yet somehow, it ended up working out for the best?”

I can think of a few moments in my own life when God asked me to do something that didn’t make much sense at the time—but let’s turn our attention to this particular situation. Joshua and the Israelites had just crossed the Jordan River into the Promised Land, prepared to engage in battle as the Lord directed. But instead of immediate warfare, God commanded Joshua to make flint knives and circumcise the sons of Israel.

Now, we know circumcision was part of the covenant God made with Abraham, as outlined in Genesis 17:7–14. But why now? This timing seemed anything but strategic. The procedure would leave the Israelite men temporarily unable to fight, putting the entire nation in a vulnerable position for several days. Joshua was preparing an army for conquest in Canaan—circumcising them at this critical moment would render them defenseless.

This situation even echoes the story in Genesis 34:24–25, where Shechem’s men were circumcised and then ambushed and killed by Simeon and Levi. The risk here was real. From a human standpoint, this command likely didn’t make much sense to Joshua. But he obeyed anyway—faithfully and without hesitation—because he recognized it as a command from God. He trusted that the same God who had just miraculously parted the Jordan River (Joshua 3:14–17) would also protect them in this moment of vulnerability.

God often calls His people to radical acts of obedience. But He never does so without also giving them powerful reasons to trust Him.

After the circumcision, the Lord named the place Gilgal, meaning “rolling,” signifying that He had rolled away the reproach of Egypt from His people. Israel had entered Canaan through the miraculous crossing of the Jordan River on dry ground, and now, through this radical act of obedience at Gilgal, they took the final steps in their transformation—from a nation of former slaves in Egypt to a free people, prepared to dwell in the land God had promised them. This moment marked a powerful shift in their national identity.

In the same way, God continues this kind of work in the hearts of His people today. He removes the shame and dishonor of past sin and rebellion, lifting His people into new life, freedom, and honor through Jesus Christ. But just as it was then, faith and obedience are essential parts of this process. God’s promises are sure—but they require our trust and our willingness to act even when His ways don’t seem to make sense.

So let me ask: What outrageous thing might God be asking you to do? How will you respond?

And if nothing comes to mind, ask Him. Ask the Father to grow your faith by leading you into things that seem outrageous—because it’s through those things that faith becomes deep, strong, and unshakable.

© 2025 May 01 – Amber Daffern

“And it came to pass, when Joshua was by Jericho, that he lifted his eyes and looked, and behold, a Man stood opposite him with His sword drawn in His hand.”
Joshua 5:13a

There comes a moment in every believer’s life when we must stop asking if God is on our side and instead ask: Am I on His side? In Joshua 5, as Israel prepared to face Jericho, Joshua encountered a mysterious, mighty figure—One with a drawn sword, commanding power, and demanding reverence. Joshua, a proven leader and warrior, was stopped in his tracks. He encountered God Himself—not to endorse Joshua’s plans, but to establish His own authority.

Have you ever been captivated by God in this way?

The Man Joshua met was not an angel or a man, but the pre-incarnate Christ—the Commander of the LORD’s armies. His sword was drawn, ready for battle, signifying judgment, power, and purpose. Joshua, bold and faithful, approached and asked a natural question: “Are You for us or for our adversaries?” But the answer he received flipped the narrative: “No, but as Commander of the army of the LORD I have now come.”

This answer may seem confusing at first, but it is deeply theological and spiritual. It wasn’t about whose side God was on. The real question was whether Joshua—and by extension, Israel—would submit to God’s rule and follow His orders.

True Worship Begins with Surrender

When Joshua realized who stood before him, he fell on his face in worship. His posture changed from confrontation to reverence. He stopped asking questions and simply said, “What does my Lord say to His servant?” This is the heart of true worship—not singing songs or attending services, but a life bowed low before the sovereignty of God.

Have you laid down your plans to ask what the Lord wants of you?

Holiness Demands Reverence

The Commander told Joshua to remove his sandals, just as God did with Moses at the burning bush. This moment was sacred. Holy ground isn’t about geography—it’s about God’s presence. Where He stands is holy, and where He calls you to stand becomes a place of sacred obedience.

Many of us want to conquer our “Jerichos”—our challenges, dreams, or ministries—but we haven’t yet been conquered by God. Before walls fall, hearts must fall. Before battles are won, knees must bow.

Victory Belongs to the Commander

Joshua was a warrior, but he wasn’t the true leader of Israel’s army. That title belonged to Jesus, the Commander of heaven’s forces. Joshua had strength, skill, and a proven record—but he needed to be reminded that only by following the Lord’s command would victory come.

Today, many believers try to pull God into their plans, seeking His endorsement. But God is not a consultant—He is the Captain. He doesn’t come to take sides; He comes to take over.

  • Have you allowed God to captivate your heart and fully submit your will to His?
  • Are you still trying to lead your life with God as backup—or have you surrendered the command?
  • What area of your life needs to become “holy ground” by inviting His presence and authority?

© 2025 May 04 – Amber Daffern

Have you ever stood before a wall that seemed too high, too thick, or too impossible to move? Maybe it was the wall of a personal failure, a strained relationship, an illness, or a spiritual stronghold that just wouldn’t fall. Like Joshua standing before the fortress of Jericho, you see the problem clearly—but the promise feels distant.

Jericho was a fortress city, small in size but massive in reputation and defense. Its walls were legendary, its gates locked tightly because of Israel’s presence. From a military standpoint, it was a fortress not to be trifled with. Yet God’s words to Joshua were not, “You will conquer Jericho,” but “I have given Jericho into your hand.”

The Victory Is Already Spoken

God didn’t say, “I will give” Jericho, but “I have given.” His promises are so sure, so absolute, that He speaks of the future as though it has already happened. Faith rests not in what our eyes see, but in what God has spoken. Faith hears the victory even when the walls still stand.

Maybe today you’re standing in front of something that looks impenetrable. But if God has spoken, your job isn’t to knock the walls down—it’s to walk in obedience until He does.

God’s Strategy Often Defies Our Logic

God told Joshua to march—quietly, patiently, repetitively. No ladders, no siege engines, no battering rams. Just priests, soldiers, trumpets, and silent obedience. What kind of battle plan is that? The kind where God gets all the glory.

When God calls you to act in a way that doesn’t “make sense,” He’s not looking for your strategy—He’s asking for your surrender. Obedience often precedes understanding.

The Presence of God Must Go Before You

The ark of the covenant—the symbol of God’s presence—was at the center of the procession. Victory wasn’t found in the strength of Israel’s army, but in the presence of their God.

When we walk through trials, are we making space for God’s presence to go before us? Or are we rushing in with our own plans, hoping He’ll catch up?

Let your life’s battles be led by the One who already holds the outcome.

Obedience Requires Endurance

Israel didn’t walk around the city once and see the walls fall. It took seven days, with no visible change. Day after day, they marched in silence. How many of us would have stopped on day three or four, convinced nothing was happening?

But every silent lap around the wall was an act of worship, an act of faith, and an investment in the victory to come. Sometimes, God asks us to keep walking—praying, serving, believing—when we see no results.

Faith is walking even when it feels like nothing is changing.

  • Are you facing a “Jericho” that looks impenetrable?
  • How might God be calling you to trust His voice over your own understanding?
  • Are you walking in step with His presence, or trying to win the battle alone?
  • Would you still obey God if the walls didn’t fall immediately?

© 2025 May 05 – Amber Daffern

“You shall not shout or make any noise with your voice, nor shall a word proceed out of your mouth, until the day I say to you, ‘Shout!’ Then you shall shout.”
Joshua 6:10

We often want to skip straight to the victory shout. We want the breakthrough without the process, the promise without the patience. But God’s way frequently includes a season of silence and steady, obedient waiting—just like He called Israel to at the walls of Jericho.

Joshua didn’t delay. When God gave him instructions, he relayed them immediately to the people. There was no discussion, no strategic debate, just trust. The priests carried the trumpets, the ark followed, the army walked—and no one spoke.

Sometimes, the most powerful act of obedience is silent faithfulness.
Israel marched without any visible results for six days. The walls of Jericho didn’t shake, crack, or show signs of collapse. Yet every silent step declared: We believe God is working—even when we can’t see it.

Can you imagine the emotional and mental battle during those six days? The people of Jericho were likely mocking from within the walls. The soldiers were probably wondering, “Is this doing anything?” And yet, no one was allowed to speak. Silence demanded focus. It prevented doubt from spreading. It forced the people to listen—not to each other, but to God. Faith isn’t just speaking God’s promises; it’s walking them out even when the walls are still standing.

In our own lives, we often want to act, speak up, or take control. But sometimes God says, “Wait. Walk. Watch.” Obedience in the silence builds our dependence on Him.

So they did six days.” Those simple words speak volumes. Day after day, Israel did the same thing with no change in the outcome. This was not aimless repetition—it was an exercise in endurance, trust, and unseen progress. God was doing something, even when it felt like nothing. Victory doesn’t always come with a visible countdown. It comes to those who walk

On the seventh day, after walking in silence, Joshua finally gave the command: “Shout, for the LORD has given you the city!” The silence broke into celebration, not because they had earned the victory, but because God had given it.

The shout was a declaration of both war and worship. It announced the end of waiting and the beginning of God’s miraculous work. The same walls they had walked around, stared at, and felt powerless before—those walls collapsed at the sound of a praise-filled, obedient shout. God’s timing is perfect. His shout will come—but only when His people are ready to give Him all the glory.

  • Are you willing to obey even when you don’t see immediate results?
  • What “walls” in your life are you silently marching around, waiting for God to move?
  • How can you practice quiet, faithful obedience this week?
  • Do you trust God enough to wait for His moment before you shout?

© 2025 May 06 – Amber Daffern

The fall of Jericho marks not just a military victory, but a spiritual turning point—a moment where obedience, judgment, and grace intersect in powerful ways.

God had declared Jericho “doomed to destruction”—not because Israel wanted the land, but because Jericho had long rejected God’s rule. The people of Canaan had centuries to repent (Genesis 15:16), and Rahab’s own words in Joshua 2 show they had heard what God was doing. But only one person in the city responded with faith—Rahab, the harlot. She alone, with her household, was spared.

This is the paradox of grace: Judgment is real, but salvation is available to anyone who believes. Rahab’s faith was messy, imperfect, and came from an unlikely source. Yet it was real, and God honored it. Her rescue reminds us that God’s mercy is wide enough for anyone willing to take Him at His word.

At the same time, God warned Israel: “By all means abstain from the accursed things…” (v. 18). The temptation to take what belongs to God would soon prove deadly (as we’ll see in Achan’s story). This was not about material goods—it was about loyalty. Who would Israel serve: the God who just tore down walls? Or the idols buried in the rubble?

Victory required obedience—total, uncompromising obedience. The people had to march, shout, wait, fight, and give up what looked valuable. Why? Because it was the first city. The silver and gold were the firstfruits, consecrated to the Lord. God doesn’t just want part of our victories—He wants to be first in all of them.

Three Reflections:

  1. Grace finds faith in unexpected places.
    Rahab was not an Israelite. She had a past. But God saw her faith and welcomed her into His people—and into the lineage of Jesus (Matthew 1:5). Who in your life may be closer to faith than you think?
  2. Obedience precedes breakthrough.
    Israel had to follow God’s plan before the walls fell. Partial obedience would not bring victory. Where might God be asking you to obey completely—even when it seems costly?
  3. Judgment is certain—but so is mercy.
    Just as Jericho’s fall was guaranteed, so is the final judgment Scripture speaks of (Hebrews 9:27). But the scarlet cord in Rahab’s window reminds us that mercy is available to those who trust in the saving blood of Christ. Are you living in light of that mercy today?

© 2025 May 07 – Amber Daffern

The story of Ai (a town to be conquered) is sobering. Fresh off a miraculous victory at Jericho, Israel finds itself humiliated and defeated—not by a mighty army, but by a small, seemingly insignificant town. Why the sudden reversal?

The answer lies not in their military strategy, but in their spiritual state . A single man, Achan, violated God’s clear command to keep certain things “devoted” (set apart) for God. And yet, all Israel suffered for it.

This passage teaches us a hard but vital truth: God takes sin seriously—even if we don’t. Hidden sin may seem personal or private, but it has communal consequences. Achan’s disobedience affected not only himself, but also his family, his tribe, and the entire nation. Thirty-six men lost their lives because one man decided his desires were more important than God’s command.

Moreover, Joshua did not seek the Lord before sending men to Ai. This was the first time he acted on his own initiative during the conquest. Victory at Jericho had birthed confidence—but it was self-confidence, not God-confidence. Confidence without dependence becomes presumption.

Are you harboring anything “devoted” to destruction in your life? Compromise in secret eventually leads to defeat in public. You may appear strong, but if sin is festering unseen, even the smallest enemy can bring you down.

And like Joshua, are you stepping into decisions without first seeking God? The momentum of past success can easily blind us to our need for fresh guidance.

Take this moment to ask:

  • Is there an “Achan” in your camp—something hidden and unrepentant?
  • Have you assumed God’s presence rather than seeking it?

© 2025 May 08 – Amber Daffern

Joshua was crushed. After a shocking defeat at Ai, he fell on his face in despair, mourning before the ark of the Lord. His questions echoed fear, grief, and confusion: “Why did You bring us here, God? Have You abandoned us?”

But God’s response was sharp: “Get up! Israel has sinned.”
The problem wasn’t divine abandonment—it was hidden disobedience.

This passage reveals a truth we often ignore: Sin, even if hidden, breaks fellowship with God and robs us of spiritual power. While Joshua sought answers through lament, God pointed him to action. The issue wasn’t God’s failure—it was the people’s compromise.

What’s more, one man’s sin affected the entire community. Achan’s theft of what was devoted to God brought defeat to the nation. This collective impact reminds us that we don’t sin in a vacuum. Our actions, even in secret, ripple outward.

God didn’t call Joshua to wallow in despair. He called him to deal with the sin—to expose it, confront it, and remove it.

Are you in a season where it feels like God is distant or His power is absent? It may not be abandonment—it may be a heart issue. Ask yourself:

  • Have I compromised in obedience?
  • Have I tolerated sin privately that I would condemn publicly?
  • Is there something “accursed” in my life that I’ve tried to hide?

Just as Israel couldn’t win at Ai with sin in the camp, we too can’t walk in victory while clinging to disobedience. The solution isn’t merely sorrow—it’s repentance, cleansing, and restoration of fellowship

God’s power flows through purity. When sin is present, His presence retreats—not because He is weak, but because He is holy.

© 2025 May 09 – Amber Daffern

Sin always has a cost, and Achan’s story reminds us just how steep that cost can be—not just personally, but corporately.

When Achan disobeyed God by taking what had been devoted to destruction, he thought he could hide it. He likely felt a thrill of possession, a fleeting joy in the spoils he buried under his tent. But the hidden sin didn’t remain hidden. It seeped into the soul of the nation, weakening its strength and bringing death to thirty-six innocent soldiers at Ai. Ultimately, it brought death to Achan himself.

As God revealed the sinner tribe by tribe, family by family, Achan stood silent, perhaps hoping the lot would fall elsewhere. But God sees what is hidden in darkness, and in His time, He exposes it. Achan confessed—not in repentance, but in defeat. His words were honest, but they came too late to undo the damage done.

Today, we live under grace through Christ, not under the law of judgment like Achan. Yet the principle remains: hidden sin brings defeat. When we cling to secret sins—envy, greed, impurity, unforgiveness—we lose spiritual power. Families, churches, even entire communities can feel the ripple effects of one believer’s disobedience.

God calls us not only to confess sin privately but to walk in the light, where we live with integrity and allow His Spirit to search and cleanse us daily. In doing so, we bring glory to God, just as Joshua urged Achan to do, not just with words, but with surrendered, transparent hearts.

  • Is there a hidden sin in your life that the Holy Spirit is convicting you to bring into the light?
  • How has unconfessed sin affected your spiritual vitality or your relationships?
  • What would it look like for you to give glory to God today through humble confession?

© 2025 May 10 – Amber Daffern

“Do not be afraid, nor be dismayed…” —Joshua 8:1

After failure comes fear. After sin, shame. Israel had just experienced both. In Joshua 7, their defeat at Ai exposed not just a military weakness but a spiritual one—hidden sin had broken fellowship with God. But in Joshua 8, everything changes. God speaks words of comfort and clarity: “Do not be afraid, nor be dismayed.”

This passage is a powerful picture of restoration after repentance . The sin of Achan had been confessed and judged, and now the same people who fled in fear were being called back to the battlefield—not to be punished again, but to be victorious.

1. Victory Begins with God’s Voice (v. 1–2)

Notice the first thing God gives Joshua: not a sword, but a word. Before any plan was formed or troops gathered, God restored Joshua’s heart. “Do not be afraid,” He says, echoing the promises made to Moses and passed on to Joshua (Joshua 1:9). God reminds him that this time will be different—not because Ai has changed, but because God is now with them .

The difference between defeat and victory isn’t in your circumstances—it’s in whether God is at the center of your strategy. Once sin is dealt with, God’s presence returns, and with it, a plan for hope .

2. The Spoils of Obedience (v. 2)

In a deeply ironic twist, God tells Israel they may now take the spoils from Ai. Had Achan waited just one more battle, he would have received more than he stole. Sin always promises what obedience ultimately provides—but only in God’s time.

This moment reminds us that obedience unlocks provision . We don’t lose by waiting on God; we lose by rushing ahead of Him.

3. Strategic Faith (v. 3–8)

Joshua now takes action, not blindly, but based on divine direction. He sends thirty thousand warriors—not three thousand like before. He lays out a detailed plan for ambush. This wasn’t just a spiritual victory; it was also a well-planned one.

Faith is not the absence of planning—it’s strategic obedience. God gave Joshua the general plan, but allowed him to use wisdom and experience to carry it out. Sometimes we wait for God to write every step, when He’s already handed us the pen and said, “You know what to do—just do it in My name.”

4. A Leader Among the People (v. 9–10)

Joshua didn’t lead from a distance. He lodged among the people. He rose early. He organized and encouraged. Like a shepherd with his sheep, he was present and prepared.

Joshua points us to Jesus—the One who didn’t save from afar but came down to dwell among us (John 1:14). Victory is not only about plans and power; it’s about presence—God’s presence with us, and godly leadership beside us.

  • Are you listening for God’s direction before stepping into your next battle?
  • What lessons from past failure might God be using to prepare you for future triumph?
  • How can you lead others with presence, humility, and courage like Joshua?

© 2025 May 11 – Amber Daffern

After Israel’s earlier failure at Ai, the second battle was approached with wisdom, preparation, and full obedience to God’s command. Joshua took personal responsibility this time—he didn’t stay behind or send others into battle. He was present, engaged, and dependent on the Lord’s direction.

The battle plan, including a feigned retreat and a hidden ambush, may have seemed risky, but it was divinely inspired. What the enemy saw as weakness was, in fact, strategic strength. God’s instruction to stretch out the spear was not just a military signal—it was a declaration of divine power and victory.

God honors careful obedience and strategic faith. He often calls us to fight battles not just with passion but with purpose and planning. Whether it’s a spiritual, emotional, or relational struggle, the key is to engage it God’s way, in God’s timing.

  • Reflect on a current struggle where you need to apply both faith and planning.
  • Are you involving God in the strategy or rushing ahead with your own?

© 2025 May 12 – Amber Daffern

As the ambush succeeded and the city of Ai was taken, Joshua kept his spear raised until the battle was completely finished. That image—of Joshua’s unwavering hand—reminds us that obedience isn’t just starting the task but staying faithful until the end.

Israel didn’t stop when they saw progress; they kept pressing forward until the victory was complete. They obeyed fully—even in difficult commands—and honored God in the aftermath. They also remembered to treat the body of the defeated king in accordance with God’s law, a reminder that even in victory, righteousness must remain.

Spiritual battles often require endurance. We must be careful not to stop at “almost done” but to carry out God’s will fully. Finishing well is just as important as starting strong.

  • What task or calling has God given you that requires renewed perseverance?
  • Are there areas where you’ve stopped short of full obedience?

© 2025 May 13 – Amber Daffern

“Then Joshua built an altar to the LORD, the God of Israel, on Mount Ebal… and afterward he read all the words of the law, the blessings and the curses, just as it is written in the Book of the Law.”
Joshua 8:30, 34 (NIV)

After a long journey, a painful failure, and a hard-won victory, Israel stopped—not to rest, but to worship and remember. Joshua led them to Mount Ebal, the mountain associated with curses, to build an altar. Not Mount Gerizim, the mountain of blessing, but Ebal—the place that reminded them of their sin, their need, and their dependence on God’s mercy.

It was there, in the shadow of judgment, that grace was proclaimed. Sacrifices were made, peace offerings were given, and the Word of God was read aloud—every word, every command, to every person. Even strangers and foreigners heard the covenant. This was a national reset. A spiritual renewal. And it all centered on worship, obedience, and the Word.

We often want to meet God on the mountain of blessing, but He meets us on Mount Ebal—where we recognize our need, surrender our pride, and hear His voice again. The altar was made of unshaped stones, untouched by human tools—because God’s grace doesn’t need our perfection. Just our hearts.

Take time today to reread God’s Word not out of habit, but out of hunger—to hear His voice clearly and obey with renewed passion.

Where in your life do you need a spiritual reset?

Are you willing to worship God in places that remind you of your weakness, knowing they can become holy ground?

© 2025 May 14 – Amber Daffern

In Joshua 9, we see two very different approaches taken by Israel’s enemies after hearing of God’s powerful work through His people. The first was a frontal assault—a united military coalition of Canaanite kings gathering to attack Israel head-on (v. 1–2). The second was deception—the Gibeonites disguising themselves as distant travelers seeking peace (v. 3–6).

These two strategies represent the dual nature of how the enemy often works in the life of a believer: open confrontation and subtle deception.

1. The Enemy that Confronts

The kings of Canaan responded with fear and desperation. They knew of Israel’s victories at Jericho and Ai. Despite their fear, they hardened their hearts and chose battle. This reminds us that the enemy sometimes comes at us boldly—through persecution, temptation, or outright opposition to our faith.

It’s easy to recognize and prepare for this kind of attack. The danger is visible. The battlefield is clear. We often draw closer to God in such moments, seeking His strength to endure and overcome.

2. The Enemy that Deceives

But the Gibeonites took another route. They didn’t come with swords; they came with lies. They disguised themselves as travelers, played the part well, and appealed to Israel’s compassion. It was subtle, clever, and seemingly harmless.

This is the more dangerous strategy for us spiritually—the deception that creeps in under the guise of peace, wisdom, or age-old tradition. We might accept something false because it appears old, familiar, or “not that bad.” Without discernment, we risk making compromises that God has clearly warned against (as Israel did by not seeking the Lord before making a treaty with them—Joshua 9:14).

  • Are there obvious battles in your life right now where the enemy is attacking directly?
  • More importantly, are there hidden compromises or deceptions you’ve accepted because they looked “harmless” or even wise?
  • Have you neglected to seek God’s counsel in a recent decision?

© 2025 May 15 – Amber Daffern

This passage presents a painful but powerful reminder: even godly leaders can be deceived when they rely on their own understanding rather than God’s wisdom.

The Gibeonites came with a plan. Disguised with worn-out clothes and moldy bread, they told a well-crafted story about coming from a faraway land. Joshua and the leaders were skeptical at first— “Perhaps you dwell among us” (v. 7)—but their suspicion didn’t lead them to prayer. Instead, they examined the evidence with their eyes and decided with their logic. The result? A covenant with a people God had forbidden them to make peace with.

1. Discernment Isn’t Enough Without Dependence

The Israelites showed a healthy suspicion, but they fell short of true spiritual discernment because they did not bring the matter before the Lord. Wisdom begins with humility—the kind that says, “God, I don’t see the full picture, but You do.” Good leadership isn’t just about making decisions—it’s about seeking divine guidance in those decisions.

2. The Danger of Relying on Appearances

The moldy bread and old wineskins looked convincing. But the enemy knows how to make a lie look like the truth. Just because something looks right doesn’t mean it is right. When we walk by sight instead of by faith, we are vulnerable to being misled. Today, deception still often comes in subtle, convincing packages—masked as opportunity, compatibility, or spiritual-sounding words.

3. The Cost of Not Asking God

Verse 14 is the heart of the issue: “They did not ask counsel of the LORD.” It wasn’t that Israel intended to disobey; it’s that they leaned on their own judgment instead of God’s direction. The result was a binding covenant they could not reverse—one that would lead to future complications (see Joshua 10).

This wasn’t just a lapse in judgment—it was a failure of spiritual discipline. How often do we rush decisions based on what “makes sense” or “feels right,” without ever stopping to pray or consult Scripture?

  • Are there areas in your life where you’re making decisions based only on logic or emotion?
  • What would it look like to consistently seek God’s counsel—in both big and small decisions?
  • Is there something you’ve committed to that now seems misaligned with God’s will? How might God be inviting you to respond with wisdom and grace?

© 2025 May 16 – Amber Daffern

“So Joshua made them that day woodcutters and water carriers for the congregation and for the altar of the LORD… even to this day.”
Joshua 9:27

Israel had just made a covenant with the Gibeonites, believing them to be travelers from a distant land seeking peace. Only three days later, the truth came out—they were locals, not foreigners. The Gibeonites had deceived them. The natural response would have been anger, retaliation, even war. Yet Israel’s leaders did something remarkable: they honored their word.

Why? Because their promise was made in the name of the LORD. And that mattered.

1. Integrity Amidst Failure

This passage teaches us a crucial lesson about integrity. The leaders of Israel had made a mistake. They acted without consulting God (v.14), and it cost them. But instead of compounding their error with more sin, they chose to uphold their word—even at their own expense.

In our lives, we too will make poor decisions. We’ll misjudge, be misled, or even act hastily. The question isn’t if we will fail, but how we respond when we do. Will we seek to justify ourselves? Will we try to erase consequences? Or will we act with honor and faithfulness, as Israel did?

“He who swears to his own hurt and does not change.”
— Psalm 15:4

God honors those who keep their word, even when it costs them something.

2. The Gibeonites’ Humility and God’s Redemption

The Gibeonites deceived Israel, but not out of arrogance—they feared the Lord. They had heard of Yahweh’s power and the coming judgment and, unlike many of the Canaanites, they responded with humility and submission.

Rather than destroy them, Joshua spared them—but not without consequence. They were made servants, woodcutters, and water carriers for the house of God. It may seem like a punishment, but in many ways, it was a blessing. They were brought near to the very presence of God.

The Gibeonites remind us that God can redeem even the most imperfect beginnings . Though their path started in deceit, their hearts were turned toward reverence. In time, Gibeon would become a place of worship, a dwelling place for the ark, and a city of priests. The descendants of these once-deceptive Canaanites were welcomed into the story of God’s people.

3. God’s Sovereignty in Human Weakness

Even through Israel’s mistake and the Gibeonites’ deception, God’s sovereign hand was at work. He turned a broken covenant into an opportunity for redemption. That’s the heart of our God— He can take failure, deception, and brokenness and use it for His glory .

  • Are there promises you’ve made that are difficult to keep? Ask God for strength to be faithful and trust Him with the consequences.
  • Have you made a mistake that you’re tempted to hide or fix with more sin? Stop, repent, and let integrity lead the way forward.
  • Do you feel like your past disqualifies you from God’s presence? Remember the Gibeonites. In humility, they found mercy and purpose.

© 2025 May 17 – Amber Daffern

“Do not forsake your servants; come up to us quickly, save us and help us…”
Joshua 10:6

Fear is a powerful force—it can either drive us to God or push us to resist Him. In Joshua 10, we witness two very different responses to the same reality: the unstoppable advance of God’s people, empowered by His presence.

Adoni-Zedek, the king of Jerusalem , hears of Israel’s miraculous victories over Jericho and Ai and of Gibeon’s surrender. Gibeon, a mighty city with powerful warriors, didn’t fall by force; it surrendered out of reverence for the God of Israel. But instead of doing the same, Adoni-Zedek is driven by fear to organize a war. He doesn’t repent—he rallies. His response mirrors the stubbornness of the human heart when confronted by divine power: rather than submit, it often fights harder.

On the other hand, the Gibeonites, though not Israelites by birth, show us what it means to trust in the mercy of God’s people and the faithfulness of a covenant. When attacked, they cry out to Joshua, “Do not forsake your servants; come up to us quickly, save us and help us.” Their words remind us of our own prayers in times of trial. As believers, we call upon the Lord not because we are worthy, but because of His covenant promises to us through Jesus Christ.

What is beautiful here is not only their request—but Joshua’s response, which comes later in the chapter: swift, committed, and courageous. Though the alliance with Gibeon had been made through their deception, Joshua honors it. Why? Because God is a covenant-keeping God, and Joshua models that same integrity.

We all face moments when we feel surrounded—when the enemies of fear, doubt, anxiety, or temptation close in like the kings around Gibeon. In those moments, we must remember that we have a covenant with the Living God. Like the Gibeonites, we can pray boldly: “Do not forsake Your servant… save me and help me.” And just as Joshua responded, so does our Savior—not because we are perfect, but because He is faithful.

  • How do you typically respond when fear threatens—like Adoni-Zedek or like the Gibeonites?
  • Have you ever hesitated to cry out to God for help because of your past mistakes?
  • Are you trusting in God’s covenant promises today, or in your own ability to face what surrounds you?

© 2025 May 18 – Amber Daffern

“So Joshua ascended from Gilgal, he and all the people of war with him, and all the mighty men of valor.” — Joshua 10:7

 It’s one thing to make a promise; it’s another to keep it when it’s no longer convenient. In Joshua 10, we find Joshua upholding a vow he and Israel had made to the Gibeonites—even though it had been made under false pretenses and could have been easily ignored.

Yet Joshua didn’t look for an escape clause. He honored the oath, not only in words but with action, courage, and full commitment. He didn’t send a small troop—he took his best men and marched all night to defend a people who had once deceived him. Why? Because integrity before God mattered more than self-interest.

This is faithfulness in action.

1. Faithfulness That Costs Something

Joshua didn’t allow the enemy’s aggression or the Gibeonites’ deception to dictate his integrity. Too often we justify unfaithfulness with logic: “They tricked me,” “It’s not fair,” “This is my way out.” But Joshua knew that to bear God’s name meant living in honor, even when it was hard.

Let us ask ourselves: What promises or commitments have we made before God or others that we’ve been tempted to abandon?

2. Courage Fueled by God’s Promise

When Joshua heard that five kings had joined forces against Gibeon, the natural response would have been fear. But God’s voice broke through the noise:

“Do not fear them, for I have delivered them into your hand.” (v. 8)

This wasn’t a motivational quote—it was divine assurance. And that promise drove Joshua to move boldly and immediately. He didn’t wait for better conditions. He didn’t sleep on it. He marched all night, uphill, into a battle that seemed impossible—because God said so.

Faith does not mean sitting back while God works; it means stepping forward knowing God is already at work.

3. Partnership in the Battle

What’s striking about this story is how God partners with Joshua. As Joshua obeyed, God moved. As Joshua fought, hailstones fell. As Joshua believed, the sun stood still.

“There were more who died from the hailstones than the children of Israel killed with the sword.” (v. 11)

God doesn’t need our help, but He invites us into co-laboring with Him. He does what only He can do, but not without calling us to do what we can do—to show up, to fight, to trust.

4. Miracles Happen When We’re All In

The most jaw-dropping moment? Joshua asks for the sun to stand still so the battle can continue. And God does it.

Why did Joshua make such a bold request? Because he was in the middle of God’s will, fighting God’s enemies, upholding God’s honor. He didn’t ask for the miracle for personal ease, but so the mission wouldn’t be left unfinished.

“There has been no day like that, before it or after it, that the LORD heeded the voice of a man.” (v. 14)

God listens to bold prayers prayed in alignment with His purpose.

5. Finish the Fight

Joshua didn’t stop with victory on the battlefield. He ensured justice was carried out. The five kings were executed—not in vengeance, but as a public declaration that no enemy of God will stand. What they thought was their hiding place became their tomb.

This story reminds us: the spiritual battles we face require follow-through. We can’t afford to let sin, fear, or compromise hide in caves. We must bring them out, deal with them, and walk forward in freedom.

  • What commitments have you made to God that you need to revisit or renew?
  • Are you stepping boldly into the battles He’s called you to, or hesitating in fear?
  • Are you asking for God-sized miracles—or settling for what seems humanly possible?
  • Is there an “enemy in the cave” in your life that you need to confront today?

© 2025 May 19 – Amber Daffern

“All these kings and their land Joshua took at one time, because the LORD God of Israel fought for Israel.”
—Joshua 10:42

The southern campaign in Joshua 10 is a stunning record of victory after victory. City after city—Makkedah, Libnah, Lachish, Gezer, Eglon, Hebron, and Debir—falls before Israel as Joshua leads God’s people in swift and decisive conquest. While the repetition of these military wins might seem brutal or dry to modern readers, the spiritual significance is rich: God was fighting for His people.

Notice the rhythm in each account: Joshua leads, the people obey, and the Lord delivers. The repeated phrase “Joshua let none remain” speaks not only to total military victory but also to the complete obedience Joshua rendered to God’s command. There were no shortcuts, no partial efforts, and no negotiations with what was meant to be destroyed. These battles symbolize the intensity and totality of the spiritual war every believer faces.

Victory is real, but it is not automatic. Each city represented a new challenge. Israel’s triumph came not from superior numbers or strategy, but from a God who promised and delivered victory. They conquered “without a single lost battle,” because they fought from God’s power, not for it.

Spiritual Parallel:

Just as Israel had to confront entrenched enemies in Canaan, believers today face battles of the heart and mind—temptation, pride, fear, and sin. But here’s the hope: we don’t fight for victory—we fight from victory.

Paul reminds us in Colossians 2:15 that Christ disarmed spiritual rulers and made a public spectacle of them at the cross. And Romans 8:37 declares, “We are more than conquerors through Him who loved us.” Like Israel, we must step into each battle trusting that the Lord goes before us.

Things to keep in mind:

  1. God is the true warrior.
    Israel’s strength lay not in its military, but in its obedience to God and His faithful presence. Are you trying to win today’s battles in your own strength?
  2. Every battle is a test of trust.
    Whether it was the walls of Jericho or the plains of Lachish, each fight tested Israel’s dependence on God. Your trials aren’t random—they’re opportunities to grow in faith.
  3. Partial obedience leads to future defeat.
    The command to leave none remaining teaches us that compromise with sin always leads to trouble. Are you allowing areas of your life to remain unconquered?
  4. Return to Gilgal.
    After the campaign, Joshua and Israel returned to Gilgal—the place of commitment, covenant, and communion. Never forget your spiritual base. Victory doesn’t begin in battle, but in surrender.

Take time today to identify one “city” in your spiritual life—an area of struggle or compromise—and bring it before God in full surrender. Trust Him to bring the victory.

© 2025 May 20 – Amber Daffern

As the LORD had commanded Moses his servant, so Moses commanded Joshua, and so Joshua did. He left nothing undone of all that the LORD had commanded Moses.” — Joshua 11:15 (NKJV)

At this point in Israel’s journey, Joshua and the people faced their greatest military threat yet. A vast coalition of northern kings, armed with superior weaponry—horses and chariots—gathered like “sand on the seashore” (v. 4). The enemy was numerous, coordinated, and technologically advanced. From a human perspective, the odds were overwhelming. But from heaven’s viewpoint, the battle was already won.

What makes this passage powerful isn’t just the military victory—it’s the spiritual principles behind it: opposition, fear, trust, obedience, and God’s faithfulness.

Opposition Will Rise

The northern kings united because they heard of Israel’s victories. God’s blessing on Israel provoked fear and resistance from others. The same is often true for believers today. A faithful life can draw not only admiration but also adversity. When you follow God’s calling, opposition may increase—not decrease. Spiritual victories often stir up spiritual battles.

Are you facing unexpected resistance? Take heart—it may be a sign you’re advancing in God’s purpose.

Fear Is Real, but God Speaks

God tells Joshua, “Do not be afraid” (v. 6), not because fear is irrational—but because it’s real. Even faithful leaders like Joshua sometimes need reassurance. The Lord reminds Joshua that He is still in control, even when the enemy seems overwhelming.

God doesn’t scold us for fear—He speaks into it. His Word strengthens us to move forward.

Obedience Unlocks Victory

Joshua didn’t win the battle through better weapons or clever tactics alone. He won because he obeyed. God told him what to do—attack swiftly, destroy the enemy’s weapons, and leave no survivors. Joshua followed without hesitation or compromise. The text says, “He left nothing undone of all that the LORD had commanded” (v. 15).

Obedience is the bridge between God’s promise and our victory. Even when it’s hard or countercultural, following God’s commands leads to blessing.

God May Use “Ordinary” Means

Unlike Jericho’s miraculous walls falling or the hailstones in the southern campaign, this battle had no visible miracles. It was a victory fought with strategy, courage, and God’s unseen power. Sometimes God moves through the spectacular—but often, He works through the ordinary faithfulness of His people.

Don’t miss God’s hand just because it doesn’t look “miraculous.” Sometimes the miracle is simply strength for today.

  • Are you obeying God even when it doesn’t make sense?
  • Is fear holding you back from what God has called you to do?
  • Are you trusting in worldly tools (horses and chariots), or are you trusting in God?

Take time today to reflect on any area of partial obedience or hidden fear. Bring it before God. Ask Him to give you the courage to obey completely—because victory lies on the other side of trust.

© 2025 May 21 – Amber Daffern

“Then the land rested from war.”Joshua 11:23

In Joshua 11, we witness the culmination of a long, hard-fought campaign. The people of Israel, led by Joshua, have finally subdued the land of Canaan as God had promised. The verses describe the scope of the victory: mountains, lowlands, valleys, and plains. Every region had been touched by the hand of God through the obedience of His people. And at the end of it all, “the land rested from war.”

But this victory didn’t come quickly or easily. Verse 18 says, “Joshua made war a long time with all those kings.” This was not a sprint; it was a campaign of years. It involved endurance, trust, and unwavering commitment to God’s command. The land was taken, city by city, battle by battle — through God’s guidance and Israel’s obedience.

This passage reminds us of the already-but-not-yet nature of God’s promises. God had given the land, but the people still had to take it. Victory was assured, but it wasn’t handed to them without a fight.

Just as Israel received Canaan as an inheritance, we have received every spiritual blessing in Christ (Ephesians 1:3). Jesus, our greater Joshua, has already won the victory through the cross. And yet, like the Israelites, we are called to walk it out, battle by battle, taking hold of what has already been secured for us.

  • Are you facing an “Anakim” today? Giants that seem too strong, fears that seem too deep? Remember: God saved those battles for Israel after they had matured in faith. He doesn’t waste your struggles—He’s training you for victory.
  • Are you growing weary in a long fight? Like Israel’s slow campaign, some victories take years. Be encouraged: God is with you in the long obedience.
  • Are you failing to possess what’s already yours? Just as each tribe had to take their own territory, we too must lay claim to the promises of God. That means intentional faith, persistent prayer, and bold steps.

Victory is not the absence of struggle; it is the presence of God in the midst of it. Just as Israel rested from war after obedience and perseverance, your rest is coming — not by quitting, but by conquering in God’s strength.

“Those who finally reign with Christ are they who, through His grace, conquer the world, the devil, and the flesh.” — Adam Clarke

© 2025 May 22 – Amber Daffern

“These Moses the servant of the Lord and the children of Israel had conquered; and Moses the servant of the Lord had given it as a possession…”Joshua 12:6

Before Joshua ever led Israel into battle across the Jordan, victories had already been won. Joshua 12 begins with a reminder of that: the conquest of two powerful kings—Sihon and Og—on the east side of the Jordan. These lands weren’t part of the original promise, yet they became a significant inheritance for the tribes of Reuben, Gad, and half of Manasseh.

What’s the point of this list of kings and conquered lands?

To the Israelites, these names weren’t just historical records. They were proof of God’s power, evidence of His faithfulness, and landmarks of His mercy. Each name represented a battle fought—and won—by God’s strength. These victories laid the foundation for what was to come.

When God Moves Ahead of You

So often, we think of God’s work as something waiting for us in the future. But Joshua 12 reminds us that God goes before us, preparing victories even before we see the main event.

  1. God works ahead of your battles.
    Sihon and Og were both formidable enemies. One was hardened in heart, and the other descended from giants. Still, neither was a match for God. Israel didn’t even initiate both conflicts—God orchestrated them to build Israel’s confidence and secure territory ahead of time.
  2. Your past victories are not minor.
    To Israel, the east side of the Jordan was not “less than” the promised land—they lived there, raised families, and built communities. Don’t dismiss what God has already done in your life just because it’s not the final destination. Every step of obedience matters.
  3. God often uses past leadership to prepare future ground.
    These victories came under Moses’ leadership, long before Joshua’s conquest. That tells us God’s promises are generational and continuous. What God began with Moses, He completed through Joshua. He’s not finished with your story yet.

When you reflect on your life, do you see “Sihon and Og” moments—challenges you didn’t expect, but through which God prepared you for something greater?

“Faith looks back to see God’s faithfulness and forward to see His fulfillment.”

© 2025 May 23 – Amber Daffern

“These are the kings of the country which Joshua and the children of Israel conquered on this side of the Jordan, on the west…”Joshua 12:7a

At first glance, Joshua 12:7–24 reads like a long, dry list—31 kings defeated, one after another. But if we look closer, this passage is not a list of names—it’s a list of testimonies.

Each king represented a stronghold, a threat, or an obstacle that once stood in the way of God’s promise to His people. Now, they’re all defeated. These names are a record of God’s power and a reminder of His faithfulness.

To Israel, this list would have inspired gratitude, worship, and confidence. It shouted one message loud and clear:

God did what He said He would do.

Your List of Victories

You may not have a scroll listing the names of defeated kings, but you do have a history of battles—fears overcome, temptations resisted, grace received, and mountains moved. And like Israel, you’re invited to look back and count those victories.

Here’s what we can learn from this list of names:

  1. Every victory matters.
    Joshua didn’t fight one battle and inherit the whole land. It was a king-by-king, battle-by-battle process. Likewise, your spiritual growth happens moment by moment, through small acts of obedience and perseverance. Don’t overlook the “little” battles—they add up.
  2. God is the one who gives the victory.
    Though Joshua led the army, God led the battle. These victories weren’t the result of Israel’s might, but of God’s promise and presence. Remember: God goes with you into every fight, and it is His strength that brings the breakthrough.
  3. Your spiritual history is your spiritual confidence.
    This list didn’t just serve as history—it became Israel’s confidence for the future. When new enemies arose, they could look back and say, “God has done it before—He will do it again.”

Take a moment today to “write your own list.” What are some battles God has brought you through? What victories has He already won in your life?

Just like Israel’s list of 31 kings, your history with God is full of evidence of His love, power, and provision.

Your list might read something like this:

  • Fear of the future – conquered.
  • Addiction – conquered.
  • Self-doubt – conquered.
  • A broken relationship – restored.
  • A season of loss – carried through.

And the list is still being written.
Keep going. God is not done yet.

© 2025 May 24 – Amber Daffern

“You are old, advanced in years, and there remains very much land yet to be possessed.”Joshua 13:1b

At this point in Joshua’s life, most people would be thinking about retirement. He had fought countless battles, seen great victories, and led the people faithfully. He was old and advanced in years. Yet, God’s message to him wasn’t, “Well done, now rest”—instead, it was, “There is still much land to be possessed.”

This passage reveals a powerful truth:

Age does not disqualify us from purpose.
Past victories do not mean the mission is finished.

God is not done with Joshua, and He’s not done with you either.

Truths to Hold On To

  1. God’s work continues even when we feel worn down.
    God didn’t ignore Joshua’s age—He acknowledged it. But He also said there was more to do. You may feel tired, older, or limited by circumstances, but God still has purpose for your life. It may look different from your younger years, but it is no less significant.
  2. There is always more “territory” to take in our spiritual lives.
    The Israelites had entered the land, defeated major kings, and claimed great ground—but they hadn’t taken it all. Spiritually, this is true for us too. There is more of Christ to know, more faith to grow into, more sin to lay down, more people to reach.
  3. God doesn’t call us to do it all at once—but He does call us to act.
    In verses 6–7, God commands Joshua to begin dividing the land, even though much of it is still unconquered. Why? Because God would drive the enemies out, but the people had to trust Him, step forward, and take possession. This is a model for our lives too.
    We may not see how the battle will be won, but God simply calls us to move in obedience, and He will do the work through us

Maybe you feel like you’ve already done your part. Maybe you’re waiting for a season of rest. But if you’re still breathing, God’s not finished with you.

Ask yourself:

  • What “unpossessed land” still lies before me?
  • Where is God calling me to keep pressing forward in faith?
  • Am I willing to trust Him, even when I feel like I’ve done enough?

Whether you’re young or old, new in the faith or seasoned in ministry, there’s still work to do—in your heart, in your family, in your community.

The greatest tragedy isn’t growing old.
It’s stopping short of what God still wants to give you.

Even if your hands are weaker than they once were, your faith can be stronger than ever.
You may not conquer kingdoms like Joshua, but you can still pray boldly, serve faithfully, and walk into every new challenge with confidence. Because just like with Joshua, God is with you—and He’s not done yet.

© 2025 May 25 – Amber Daffern

“But to the tribe of Levi Moses had given no inheritance; the Lord God of Israel was their inheritance, as He had said to them.”Joshua 13:33

Joshua 13 may read like a historical account of borders, territories, and tribal names—but beneath the geography is a profound truth: God gives His people their inheritance, and each one is secure in what He provides.

The tribes of Reuben, Gad, and half of Manasseh received their land east of the Jordan, as previously assigned by Moses. This region, once ruled by mighty kings like Sihon and Og, now became a home for God’s people. It was a tangible expression of God’s faithfulness and His promise to Abraham centuries before.

But something stands out powerfully in verse 33: the tribe of Levi received no physical land. Instead, they received something better—God Himself.

  1. God is the Giver of Inheritance.
    The text repeatedly emphasizes that this land was given by God, through Moses and now confirmed under Joshua. It wasn’t seized merely by human strength—it was a gift.

Our lives, our calling, and our spiritual inheritance are not something we earn—they are gifts from the Father of lights (James 1:17).

  1. Your Portion May Look Different, but It’s Still from God.
    The tribes received different territories—some fertile plains, some mountain regions, some war-torn ground. The Levites, uniquely, received no land at all. Yet their inheritance was described as the LORD Himself.

What God assigns to you may look different from what He gives to others—but it is no less precious.
Are you willing to find joy in what God has chosen for you?

  1. Spiritual Inheritance Is Greater than Material Possession.
    While the other tribes received physical land, the Levites were given a life of service, closeness to God’s presence, and the privilege of representing the people before Him.

In Christ, we too are a royal priesthood (1 Peter 2:9), and our inheritance is not land, but an eternal kingdom (Colossians 1:12, 1 Peter 1:4).

  1. Partial Obedience Has Long-Term Consequences.
    Verse 13 reveals a small but sobering note: “the children of Israel did not drive out the Geshurites or the Maachathites.” These unremoved influences would later resurface in Israel’s history, often causing division and idolatry.

Obedience must be complete. Leaving even small “territories” of compromise in our lives can lead to spiritual struggle down the line.

Life Application

  • What has God given you as your inheritance?
    Maybe it’s a calling, a gift, or a season of influence. Maybe it’s a deeper walk with Him through trials. Whatever it is, receive it with joy.
  • Are you comparing your portion to someone else’s?
    Resist the temptation to think someone else has it better. God knows what you need—and what will grow you into His likeness.
  • Is there a Geshurite or Maachathite in your heart?
    Are there areas of your life you’ve left untouched by God’s authority? Invite Him in. Complete obedience leads to complete freedom.

Final Thought

Just like the tribes of Israel, we all have a “portion” assigned by God. Some of it may be seen, much of it may be spiritual—but every bit of it is sacred.

And if you’re ever tempted to feel left out or overlooked, remember the Levites.

They didn’t get land—but they got God.

And that is more than enough.

© 2025 May 26 – Amber Daffern

“Their inheritance was by lot, as the LORD had commanded by the hand of Moses…”Joshua 14:2

In Joshua 14, the Israelites prepare to divide the land of Canaan—the long-awaited inheritance promised generations earlier to Abraham and his descendants. What might seem like a bureaucratic process—lots, leaders, logistics—is in fact deeply spiritual. The hand of God is in every detail.

The land wasn’t just taken; it was given. And how was it given? By lot—a system of divinely-guided selection. While we might view casting lots as random chance, in Israel’s case, it was the opposite: a means of letting God choose.

  1. God’s Promises Are Personal and Precise.
    The land was distributed just as the LORD had commanded by the hand of Moses (v.2, v.5). These were not abstract promises; they were specific, generational, and fulfilled with care.

God sees you—not as a face in the crowd, but as someone He’s made promises to. And He fulfills them in detail.

  • Your Inheritance Is Not Earned—It’s Received.
    Though Israel fought for the land, the language here emphasizes inheritance. That means the land was ultimately not a wage, but a gift—something given, not earned.

In the same way, our salvation, our spiritual blessings, and our calling in Christ are gifts of grace, not rewards of merit (Ephesians 2:8-9).

  • Let God Choose Your Portion.
    The casting of lots placed the outcome in God’s hands. This prevented favoritism or manipulation, and it called every tribe to trust that what God assigned was best.

Are you willing to trust God’s choice for your life—even if it looks different from others’? Your “lot” in life is no accident; it’s chosen by a loving Father who sees the whole picture.

  • The Body of Christ Has Many Roles—and One Mission.
    The Levites received no land, but they were not forgotten. They were given cities and a unique spiritual inheritance—God Himself.

In Christ, we each have a different assignment, but every role matters (1 Corinthians 12:12-26). Be faithful where God has placed you.

  • Reflect: Are you striving to control your future or trusting God to assign your portion?
  • Surrender: Release any envy of others’ paths. What God has for you is tailored perfectly to you.
  • Obey: The people did as the LORD had commanded Moses (v.5). When we walk in obedience, we step into God’s best.

God doesn’t just give any inheritance—He gives your inheritance. When you trust His hand, you’ll find that the portion He chooses is more than enough.

“The lot is cast into the lap, but its every decision is from the LORD.”Proverbs 16:33

© 2025 May 27 – Amber Daffern

At 85 years old, Caleb stood before Joshua with the same passion, courage, and faith he had 45 years earlier. While others doubted and wandered, Caleb believed and waited. Now, standing in the Promised Land, he was not asking for rest, retirement, or reward—he was asking for a mountain still occupied by giants.

Caleb’s request wasn’t rooted in pride or ambition. It was rooted in faithful obedience. He had followed God wholeheartedly and trusted in His promise when it was first given through Moses. Even after decades of delay, Caleb’s confidence in God’s faithfulness never wavered.

In a culture that often idolizes comfort, Caleb challenges us:

  • Are we still asking God for mountains?
  • Are we willing to face spiritual giants in pursuit of God’s promises?
  • Have we allowed time, disappointment, or age to dull our spiritual edge?

Caleb’s strength didn’t come from physical prowess but from his unshakeable trust in God’s word. His life encourages us to keep believing, keep fighting, and keep claiming God’s promises—no matter how long it takes.

  • What “mountains” has God promised in your life that you’ve been waiting to see fulfilled?
  • Are there areas where you’ve stopped believing or pursuing because of time, fear, or discouragement?
  • How can Caleb’s wholehearted devotion inspire your walk with God today?

© 2025 May 28 – Amber Daffern

“Now to Caleb the son of Jephunneh he gave a share among the children of Judah, according to the commandment of the LORD to Joshua…” — Joshua 15:13

Joshua 15 presents a detailed account of the land given to the tribe of Judah and to Caleb, the faithful servant of the Lord. At first glance, the long list of boundaries and cities may seem tedious or technical. But beneath the surface, there are powerful reminders of God’s faithfulness, human courage, and the rewards of obedient living.

1. God Keeps His Promises (vv. 1–12)

The tribal boundaries may seem like a geography lesson, but they represent something profound: God fulfilling His promises. Every border marks the realization of what God swore to Abraham generations earlier. These were not spiritual metaphors or poetic ideals—these were real cities, hills, rivers, and lands given to real people.

We are reminded that God’s promises are specific, personal, and trustworthy. What He said, He will do—even if it takes years or generations. This is a call to trust the process, even when the fulfillment of a promise seems distant.

Are there promises you’re waiting on from God? Are you still trusting His faithfulness?

2. Bold Faith is Rewarded (vv. 13–19)

Caleb, now in his 80s, had not forgotten what God said to him through Moses. He claimed Hebron with courage, driving out the Anakim—the giants who had terrified the previous generation. Caleb’s boldness reminds us that faith doesn’t retire. Courage and trust in God are not seasonal; they should define every stage of our lives.

Caleb also challenged others to bold action. Othniel responded, conquering a city and marrying Caleb’s daughter Achsah—who herself displayed spiritual boldness by asking for more than what she was given.

When we live boldly for God, we inspire others to do the same. Caleb’s faith gave birth to a legacy of spiritual courage, both in Othniel and in Achsah.

3. Ask Boldly, Receive Abundantly (v. 19)

Achsah’s request to her father is a beautiful example of faith-filled petition. She did not complain about what she had; instead, she recognized that what she had been given needed to be sustained with water—a metaphor for the sustaining power of God’s grace in our lives.

She asked wisely, humbly, and boldly—and Caleb responded generously. This interaction reflects how God invites us to pray with expectation, knowing that He delights in giving good gifts to His children.

Like Achsah, ask God for “springs”—the resources, strength, and refreshing you need to flourish where He’s planted you.

  • Faith lives long and finishes strong. Caleb never let go of God’s promise.
  • God’s promises are personal and precise. He does not forget His Word.
  • God honors bold, faithful asking. Like Achsah, we can ask for more without shame.
  • Obedience leaves a legacy. Caleb’s courage inspired the next generation.

© 2025 May 29 – Amber Daffern

“This was the inheritance of the tribe of the children of Judah according to their families.” — Joshua 15:20

Joshua 15 reads like an ancient land deed—city names, borders, and districts that paint the picture of a vast and blessed inheritance for the tribe of Judah. It’s easy to skim this passage, but if we pause, it reveals two powerful spiritual truths: God gives both blessing and responsibility in our journey of faith.

1. The Blessing of Detail (vv. 20–62)

God’s promises to Israel were not vague or symbolic—they were measurable, locatable, and specific. Judah’s inheritance included mountains, wilderness, fertile plains, and strategic cities. From the heights of Hebron to the oasis of En Gedi, Judah was given a rich and diverse portion.

This reminds us that God’s blessings are not generic. He knows our needs, gifts, and futures—and He provides for us accordingly. The extensive list of cities shows God’s care in making sure every family, every clan, had a place to belong and build.

Have you recognized the specific ways God has blessed you? Are you living with gratitude for the portion God has assigned to you?

2. The Responsibility to Possess (v. 63)

The final verse of the chapter takes a sobering turn:
“But the Jebusites, the inhabitants of Jerusalem, the children of Judah could not drive out…”

Despite all the victories and land given, there remained an incomplete conquest. Jerusalem—one of the most significant cities in Israel’s future—remained under Canaanite control until the time of David. This reminds us that receiving a promise is not the same as fully possessing it.

God had given Judah the land, but they were expected to take possession of it fully, even when it was difficult. The failure to drive out the Jebusites wasn’t due to God’s limitation—it was a human one. It was a compromise that would eventually have long-term consequences.

Sometimes we settle for partial obedience, partial possession, or partial victory—when God calls us to complete trust and follow-through.

  • God’s gifts are specific. Every city listed was a part of God’s intentional provision.
  • God’s people must act. Inheritance requires effort, courage, and obedience to fully possess.
  • Unfinished obedience leaves gaps. The failure to fully drive out the Jebusites reflects how compromise can creep into our spiritual lives.
  • God is patient—but He calls us to be thorough. What Judah left undone, David eventually finished. God’s purposes still move forward, even through our delays.

Application: Take time today to identify any “Jebusites” in your life—areas where you’ve left things unresolved, compromised, or ignored. Ask God for the strength to finish what He’s called you to conquer.

© 2025 May 30 – Amber Daffern

“But they did not drive out the Canaanites who dwelt in Gezer; so the Canaanites dwell among the Ephraimites to this day and have become forced laborers.” – Joshua 16:10

Joshua 16 describes the allocation of land to the tribes of Joseph—Ephraim and the half-tribe of Manasseh. These verses lay out the rich inheritance that was given to them—a fruitful, well-positioned territory filled with potential. This land was God’s promise, a gift meant to establish His people securely.

Yet, in the midst of this victorious narrative, we see a sobering truth in verse 10: “They did not drive out the Canaanites.” Though God had commanded the Israelites to fully possess the land and remove all its pagan inhabitants, Ephraim chose a path of partial obedience. They allowed the Canaanites to remain, turning them into forced laborers instead.

What seems like a small compromise would later become a spiritual cancer. The Canaanites, with their pagan practices and idolatrous culture, slowly influenced the Israelites. Over time, this led to syncretism, disobedience, and judgment. What began as a decision of convenience—keeping forced laborers—ended in corruption.

Just like the Israelites, we may settle for less than full obedience. We accept parts of God’s Word, but ignore the parts that challenge our comfort or prosperity. We keep “Canaanites” in our hearts—sins, habits, relationships, or priorities that God has told us to uproot. But instead, we make peace with them.

  • Have you fully claimed the spiritual “inheritance” God has given you? Or are there areas you’ve left unconquered?
  • Is there a compromise in your life that seems manageable—but could later be destructive?
  • Are you seeking peace and convenience over total obedience?

God doesn’t just want to give us land—He wants to give us freedom. But we cannot experience the fullness of His promises if we allow spiritual Canaanites to dwell within us.

Identify one “Canaanite” in your life—a compromise, sin, or area of partial obedience—and take one intentional step this week to deal with it fully, not halfway. Whether it’s confessing, setting boundaries, or removing a temptation, don’t delay.

© 2025 May 31 – Amber Daffern

“You are a great people and have great power; you shall not have only one lot… for you shall drive out the Canaanites, though they have iron chariots and are strong.”
Joshua 17:17-18

In Joshua 17, we witness how God faithfully distributed land to the tribes of Manasseh, including a remarkable moment where daughters receive an inheritance—something unusual in that time. Zelophehad’s daughters boldly appealed to God’s justice and were granted land, not because of entitlement, but because of God’s command (v. 4). This reminds us that God’s plans often transcend cultural norms and that His justice includes those the world may overlook.

Later in the chapter, however, we see a contrast. The children of Joseph (Ephraim and Manasseh) complain. Though they already possessed fertile and abundant land, they were unsatisfied and asked for more. Joshua’s response was wise and pointed: “If you’re such a great people, then take the land and clear it. Yes, there are enemies—but God has already given it to you.”

Their real problem wasn’t lack of land—it was lack of courage and initiative. They feared the strength of the Canaanites more than they trusted the promise of God.

God often calls us to possess what He’s already promised, but we shrink back because it looks too difficult. Instead of moving forward in faith, we wait for “easier” circumstances or clearer roads. But faith doesn’t mean the absence of obstacles; it means trusting that God is with us in the midst of them.

Like Zelophehad’s daughters, we can come boldly before the Lord, appealing to His promises with humility and reverence. And like the children of Joseph, we are reminded not to let fear, comfort, or laziness hold us back from walking fully in the blessings He has already assigned to us.

  • What “land” has God already given you that you have yet to fully possess?
  • Is it a calling? A relationship? A spiritual gift?
  • Don’t wait for easier terrain—start clearing the forest. Trust Him through the iron chariots.

© 2025 June 01 – Amber Daffern

“Then Joshua said to the children of Israel: ‘How long will you neglect to go and possess the land which the LORD God of your fathers has given you?'”
Joshua 18:3

The Israelites had conquered the land, the tabernacle had been set up in Shiloh, and the land was at peace. Yet, seven tribes had not yet taken possession of what God had already given to them. They had promises waiting—but they were still living as if they had none.

Joshua’s question cuts through the fog of complacency: “How long will you neglect to go and possess the land?”

This is more than a historical detail—it’s a spiritual wake-up call. God had already given the land; their job was to go and claim it. But instead of stepping forward in faith, they stalled. Maybe it was fear of the unknown, maybe it was a preference for comfort, or perhaps a sense that it was someone else’s job to lead the way.

How often do we do the same?

  • God has promised peace, but we continue to live in anxiety.
  • He’s offered purpose, but we settle for passivity.
  • He has given us spiritual gifts, but we hold back in using them.

Like the tribes, we may wait for ideal conditions or a sign from heaven, but the truth is: the land is already given. We are waiting on God, but God is waiting on us.

  • Ask yourself: What part of God’s promise have I not yet possessed? Is it a calling? A ministry? A deeper walk with Him?
  • Face the reason for delay: Is it fear, distraction, or comfort that’s holding you back?
  • Take action: Like Joshua’s survey team, begin walking the land—do the practical, faithful work of stepping into God’s will.

Faith doesn’t just believe God can—it steps forward because God has.

© 2025 June 02 – Amber Daffern

“Now the lot of the tribe of the children of Benjamin came up according to their families, and the territory of their lot came out between the children of Judah and the children of Joseph.”
Joshua 18:11

In this passage, we read of the final division of the Promised Land—specifically the territory allotted to the tribe of Benjamin. To many, this may seem like a dry list of place names and boundaries, but to Israel, it represented something far more powerful: the fulfillment of God’s promise.

The land described wasn’t just geography—it was evidence. Proof that what God had spoken to Abraham hundreds of years earlier had come true (Genesis 13:15, 17:8). Each city, boundary line, and tribal allotment was a marker of God’s faithfulness to His covenant.

Benjamin’s territory was nestled between Judah and Joseph, placing it in a strategic and spiritually significant region. Included in Benjamin’s portion were key cities like Jericho, Bethel, Jerusalem (then the Jebusite city), and Gibeon—places that would later become central in Israel’s history. This reminds us that God not only provides, He positions. He knows where to place His people for future influence and purpose.

Even more beautiful is how Benjamin, though the smallest of the tribes (1 Samuel 9:21), was not forgotten. God didn’t overlook them or give them scraps; He gave them a portion filled with promise and purpose.

  • God doesn’t forget the small: You may feel overlooked or insignificant, but the same God who remembered Benjamin sees you and has prepared a place and purpose for you.
  • God’s promises are tangible: His Word doesn’t return void. Even if the fulfillment takes years—like Israel’s journey from Egypt to Canaan—God will do what He said.
  • Your “place” matters: Whether your current situation feels significant or not, trust that God has placed you exactly where He wants you for reasons you may not yet see.

© 2025 June 03 – Amber Daffern

“The inheritance of the children of Simeon was included in the share of the children of Judah, for the share of the children of Judah was too much for them.” — Joshua 19:9 (NKJV)

When we read through the chapters in Joshua detailing the division of the Promised Land, it may seem like a list of boundaries, cities, and names. Yet, tucked within these verses is a deep and relevant spiritual truth: God gives each of His people their portion—and His provision is never lacking.

1. Simeon: Sharing the Abundance of Others

The tribe of Simeon received land within Judah’s territory because Judah’s inheritance was “too much for them.” At first glance, this might look like a loss of identity, but it was actually a fulfillment of Jacob’s prophecy in Genesis 49:5–7—that Simeon would be scattered. Even in discipline, God’s hand of provision was present. Simeon didn’t go without. Instead, they were sustained within Judah’s abundance.

Sometimes, we find our place in the overflow of someone else’s blessing. Are we humble enough to receive and flourish there? God’s provision may come through unexpected channels.

2. Zebulun: Small but Strategic

Zebulun’s inheritance included just twelve cities, but nestled among them was Gath Hepher, the hometown of Jonah. Though smaller, Zebulun’s land would eventually contribute to God’s plan for reaching nations through prophets.

God often uses what seems insignificant in the present to shape something powerful in the future. Don’t underestimate your “small” place in God’s kingdom.

3. Issachar: Rest in the Valleys

Issachar’s inheritance included Jezreel and Shunem—fertile and fruitful places. These lands, though less fortified, were rich in resources. It was a land for quiet strength and productivity, not conquest.

In seasons of quietness and stability, are you faithful in tending the land God has given you? Not all blessings come with battle—some come with peace.

4. Asher: A Coastal Calling

Asher received a broad stretch reaching to the sea, including Mount Carmel and Tyre—places of beauty and strategic significance. Though Asher was given much, they struggled historically to fully drive out inhabitants and possess their land.

God may call you to inherit something beautiful and influential, but you must step into it boldly. Don’t let fear keep you from fully possessing God’s promises.

These tribal allotments remind us that God sees each of us individually, yet places us within a larger story. Your “lot” in life is not random—it is divinely assigned. Whether you’re planted in someone else’s abundance (Simeon), given a small but powerful space (Zebulun), living in fruitful peace (Issachar), or facing the challenge of full possession (Asher)—God is faithful

  • In what areas of your life might God be calling you to be content with the “portion” He’s given you, even if it seems smaller or less visible than others’? How can you trust that His placement is purposeful and good?
  • Are there blessings or opportunities God has given you that you haven’t fully possessed yet—perhaps due to fear, comparison, or complacency? What steps can you take this week to boldly step into the inheritance God has for you?

© 2025 June 04 – Amber Daffern

“So they made an end of dividing the country.”Joshua 19:51b

As we reach the final allotments of the Promised Land in Joshua 19, we may be tempted to skim through the names of cities and boundaries—but tucked within these verses are rich truths about God’s faithfulness, our calling, and the beauty of humility in leadership.

1. Faithful to Every Tribe (vv. 32–39 – Naphtali, 40–48 – Dan)

God didn’t forget a single tribe. From Naphtali to Dan, every group received its portion—just as God had promised through Moses and Joshua. For Naphtali, a region filled with notable cities like Hazor and Chinnereth (later known as the Sea of Galilee), this land would later become the region where Jesus would spend much of His ministry (see Matthew 4:13–15). God’s promise stretched into their future beyond what they could have imagined.

For Dan, things were a bit more complex. Their original territory wasn’t enough, and they had to fight to possess additional land (Judges 18). This reminds us that God’s promises often require faith-filled action. The land was given—but not without opposition. Possession required perseverance and courage.


Even when your portion looks difficult or different, remember: God is faithful to fulfill His promises. What He gives, He empowers you to take. Are there promises in your life that require you to fight for them in faith?

2. Faithful Leadership and Humble Reward (vv. 49–51 – Joshua’s Inheritance)

After every tribe had received their inheritance, Joshua—God’s faithful servant and leader—received his portion last. This wasn’t a result of neglect but a reflection of deep humility and servant-hearted leadership. Joshua didn’t assert privilege. Instead, he waited until everyone else had received their portion. And when he did receive land, he went to the rugged hill country and built a city there.

His example echoes the servant leadership of Christ—who, though Lord of all, took the lowest place to serve, to wash feet, and to lay down His life.


Are you willing to wait? To serve others first, even if it means receiving your portion last? True leadership is marked not by position, but by posture—the humility to serve, the patience to wait, and the faith to build even in hard places.

3. Faithful Completion Before the Lord (v. 51)

This whole process of dividing the land wasn’t just a matter of civil administration—it was an act of worship. The division happened “before the LORD… at the door of the tabernacle of meeting.” God was in every decision. The people were mindful that this land came not by their strength, but by His grace.


Do you bring your decisions before the Lord? Whether it’s claiming a promise, leading a group, or settling into your next season—submit it all before God’s presence. Let every step be an act of worship and trust.

Joshua 19 ends with a simple but powerful line: “So they made an end of dividing the country.”
It was finished. What began as a promise in the wilderness had now become reality. God had not failed in a single word. And Joshua, the faithful leader, stood not just as a commander—but as a witness to God’s covenant faithfulness.

© 2025 June 05 – Amber Daffern

“Appoint for yourselves cities of refuge… that the slayer who kills a person accidentally or unintentionally may flee there; and they shall be your refuge from the avenger of blood.”
Joshua 20:2–3

The appointment of the cities of refuge in ancient Israel wasn’t just a legal safeguard—it was a profound picture of God’s mercy and justice working together. These cities served as safe havens for people who had accidentally taken a life. Though they were innocent of murder, they were still in danger until they reached the place of refuge.

1. A Refuge for the Unintentional Offender

God commanded that six cities be set apart for those who killed unintentionally. In a culture where the “avenger of blood” (a family member seeking justice) could pursue the slayer, these cities were the only hope for safety until a proper trial could be held.

This system reminds us that God sees the heart. Intent matters to Him. He isn’t only interested in what we’ve done—but why we did it. He created a space where someone could be safe from judgment while the truth was discerned.

2. Justice, Not Vengeance

These cities did not shield the guilty from justice. They protected the innocent from revenge. The distinction between murder and manslaughter mattered, and a trial was necessary. A person couldn’t hide behind the walls of refuge to avoid accountability—but they could find mercy while their case was heard.

God’s justice is not impulsive or reactionary. It’s measured, wise, and full of both truth and grace. The “avenger of blood” could not act outside the law, just as we must not let anger, grief, or bitterness push us to seek personal vengeance.

3. Safe Within the Walls

Once a person reached the city and explained their case to the elders, they were welcomed in and given a place to live. But protection required them to stay within the city until two things happened: their case was judged and the high priest died.

That’s no small detail. The death of the high priest marked the release of the slayer from their exile—it was the moment justice and mercy met. This is a beautiful foreshadowing of the gospel.

Jesus is our City of Refuge.
We are all guilty—not of manslaughter, but of sin. And yet, we are invited to flee to Christ, who protects and redeems us. Like the high priest’s death set the slayer free, the death of Jesus sets us free—once and for all.

“God is our refuge and strength, a very present help in trouble.” —Psalm 46:1

4. Freedom Through the High Priest

The person who had fled could only return home safely after the death of the high priest. That death symbolically atoned for the unintentional sin and lifted the legal danger.

Jesus, our Great High Priest, died once for all, so we might no longer live in fear or exile. We don’t have to stay hidden, waiting for justice or mercy to come. In Him, both have already met at the cross.

Have you ever been judged for something without being fully understood? God knows your heart. Just as He provided a refuge for the misunderstood, He offers you a place of shelter in His presence when life feels unjust

Are you holding onto the role of “avenger” in your heart—seeking payback or closure on your own terms ? Trust God to handle the justice. His ways are fair and full of mercy.

Have you run to Jesus as your refuge? Are you living inside His covering, or outside trying to manage justice on your own? He has made a way for you to be both safe and free.

The cities of refuge were a shadow. Jesus is the substance. In Him, we find mercy, justice, and a place to call home.

© 2025 June 06 – Amber Daffern

“These were the cities appointed for all the children of Israel and for the stranger who dwelt among them, that whoever killed a person accidentally might flee there, and not die by the hand of the avenger of blood until he stood before the congregation.”
Joshua 20:9

God’s Mercy Has No Borders

When God commanded the establishment of six cities of refuge—three on each side of the Jordan River—He made sure they were strategically placed so that no one would be too far from mercy. These cities weren’t hidden or remote; they were accessible, available, and open to all—Israelite and foreigner alike.

That’s not just good geography. It’s the heart of God on display.

1. Refuge Within Reach

The cities of refuge were never more than a day’s journey away. Roads to them were to be kept clear, direct, and easy to follow (Deut. 19:2–3). Why? Because in a moment of desperation—where your life literally depended on getting there— nothing should slow you down from reaching safety.


Isn’t that a picture of Jesus? He is not far off or difficult to access. We don’t have to climb mountains or wade through rituals to reach Him. The path to Him has been cleared by grace.

2. Refuge for Everyone

These cities were not only for Israelites—they were also for the foreigner, the outsider. God’s justice, compassion, and provision weren’t reserved for a select few. In a world that often excluded, God included.

3. Jesus: Our True Refuge

The entire concept of the cities of refuge was a shadow of something far greater—a foreshadowing of our perfect refuge in Jesus Christ.

Consider the powerful parallels:

  • The cities had to be reached to save.
     ➤ Jesus must be personally received.
  • The cities were open to all.
     ➤ Jesus welcomes anyone who comes to Him.
  • Safety was found within the boundaries.
     ➤ In Christ, we find protection under His lordship.
  • The cities protected only the innocent.
     ➤ But Jesus offers refuge even to the guilty. That’s grace.

4. Freedom Through the High Priest

Freedom for the slayer came only after the death of the high priest. This again points us to Christ, our eternal High Priest. He died once—for all—so that we might be released from guilt, shame, and fear.

We no longer wait in exile for justice to be settled. Jesus settled it at the cross.

“In our city of refuge we shall always be safe, for our High Priest lives forever.” – Alan Redpath

Do you feel like an outsider? Someone who doesn’t quite fit, or isn’t sure if they belong? God’s arms are open to you. His refuge—His salvation—is not just for the “insiders.” It’s for anyone who runs to Him with a humble heart.

“Is He the God of the Jews only? Is He not also the God of the Gentiles?” — Romans 3:29

Are you dwelling in Christ—or merely standing near the gates? To live in His refuge is to abide in His Word, rest in His promises, and surrender to His lordship daily.

© 2025 June 07 – Amber Daffern


Key Verse: “The LORD commanded through Moses to give us cities to dwell in, with their common-lands for our livestock.” — Joshua 21:2 (NKJV)

In the grand distribution of the Promised Land, the tribe of Levi stands apart. While the other tribes received large portions of land, the Levites received no specific region, but instead were given cities scattered throughout Israel. Why? Because God Himself was their inheritance (Joshua 13:33).

These 48 cities, with their surrounding pasturelands, served as more than mere dwellings—they were divinely appointed stations of spiritual influence. Every tribe had Levitical cities among them, ensuring that the worship, teaching, and presence of God were never far from His people.

This strategic scattering wasn’t a demotion or a punishment—it was a privilege and a purpose. Centuries earlier, Jacob prophesied that Levi would be scattered (Genesis 49:5–7), and while this originally stemmed from judgment for sin, God redeemed it into blessing. From rebellion came redemption, and from failure, a calling.

The Levites’ presence in every region meant that no matter where an Israelite lived, they had access to God’s Word, worship, and guidance. They were the spiritual backbone of the nation, ministering not only in the tabernacle but also teaching the Law, resolving disputes, and modeling God-centered living.

You, too, have a Levitical calling.
As a follower of Jesus, you are part of a royal priesthood (1 Peter 2:9). God doesn’t gather all His people into one holy bubble; instead, He scatters us like salt and light into neighborhoods, schools, workplaces, and cities. We are not called to retreat from the world but to live among it, reflecting Christ’s love and truth.

Your job, your home, your community—none of these are random. Like the Levites, you’ve been placed with purpose, not for comfort, but for influence. You may not have a “region,” but you have a divine responsibility: to shine where you’ve been scattered.

Do you see God as your inheritance? The Levites had no land of their own, but they had something greater—God Himself. Are you clinging to material promises, or are you anchored in the eternal?

Where has God placed you? Reflect on the people and places you’re surrounded by. How might you minister in quiet, faithful ways?

Are you available? The Levites were servants of the people and the Lord. Ask yourself if your posture is one of service or self-preservation.

© 2025 June 08 – Amber Daffern

“So the LORD gave to Israel all the land of which He had sworn to give to their fathers, and they took possession of it and dwelt in it.” — Joshua 21:43

After all the battles, marching, and waiting, Israel finally received what God had long promised: the land. These final verses in Joshua 21 are not just a record of real estate; they are a monument to the faithfulness of God. Every word He spoke, every promise He gave—He fulfilled it completely.

1. The Gift of Inheritance

“So the LORD gave…”
The land was not earned through Israel’s skill or strength—it was a gift. God had sworn it to Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob, and now His word had become their reality. Likewise, in Christ, we have been given every spiritual blessing (Ephesians 1:3). Our identity, calling, and destiny are not earned—they are inherited.

2. The Gift of Rest

“The LORD gave them rest all around…” (v. 44)
Rest came after obedience. Israel was not only given land—they were given peace. And it wasn’t a fragile or temporary rest—it was divine rest, rooted in God’s faithfulness. For us, rest is more than physical ease; it’s spiritual confidence that we are right where God wants us. Jesus invites us into His rest—not just someday in heaven, but today in our walk with Him (Hebrews 4:9-11).

3. The Faithfulness of God

“Not a word failed of any good thing which the LORD had spoken…” (v. 45)
God doesn’t forget. He doesn’t delay out of neglect. His timing, His promises, and His plans are always perfect. Israel’s journey reminds us that even when the waiting feels long, God is writing a faithful story.

But notice—Israel still had more ground to cover. Though the land was theirs, full possession required ongoing trust and action. And so it is with us. God has given us victory in Christ, but we must walk it out.

  • What promises has God fulfilled in your life that you can thank Him for today?
  • Are there areas where you’re waiting to take full possession of what He’s already given you?
  • How might you move forward in faith, knowing God has made provision even before you step out?

© 2025 June 09 – Amber Daffern

“You have not left your brethren these many days… But take careful heed to do the commandment and the law… to love the LORD your God, to walk in all His ways…”
— Joshua 22:3, 5 (NKJV)

After years of war, dust, and the daily grind of obedience, the warriors of the eastern tribes had finally finished their mission. They had left their families and lands behind and honored their promise to Moses and Joshua to help their fellow Israelites claim their inheritance west of the Jordan. Now, with the land subdued and peace in sight, Joshua calls them forward—not to correct them, but to commend them.

“You have obeyed. You have not abandoned your brothers. Now, return home with blessing and riches.”

There’s something deeply beautiful in this moment: faithfulness being recognized and rewarded.

They could have stayed home. Their inheritance was already secured east of the Jordan (Numbers 32). But they kept their word. They stood side-by-side with their brethren in battle, proving that the unity of God’s people matters more than personal convenience.

Joshua doesn’t just send them away with wealth; he sends them with a challenge and a blessing:

  • Love the Lord.
  • Walk in His ways.
  • Keep His commands.
  • Cling to Him.
  • Serve Him with all your heart and soul.

This is not just a to-do list. It’s a rhythm of life centered around relationship. First, hear and love. Then walk and serve. It’s a reminder that obedience flows from love—not the other way around.

And just like the eastern tribes, we too are called to:

  • Be faithful to God’s people.
  • Fulfill our commitments, even when the season is long.
  • Cling to God in peace as we did in war.
  • Go where God sends us—and return home with our hearts still aligned to Him.

_________________________________________________________________________

  1. Have I been faithful to the commitments God has called me to, even when no one else is watching?
  2. Is my obedience driven by a deep love for God, or am I just going through the motions?
  3. How can I actively “cling” to the Lord today—especially in times of rest, not just in struggle?

© 2025 June 10 – Amber Daffern

“The children of Reuben and the children of Gad called the altar, Witness: ‘For it is a witness between us that the LORD is God.’” – Joshua 22:34

There are few things more painful than division among the people of God—especially when it stems from misunderstanding. In Joshua 22, we witness a moment of high tension and potential tragedy: the tribes of Israel almost go to war against each other—not because of betrayal, but because of miscommunication.

The eastern tribes (Reuben, Gad, and half of Manasseh) built a great and impressive altar near the Jordan River. Its size and placement caused immediate concern. The western tribes feared it represented a rival place of worship—an act of rebellion against the Lord, who had commanded sacrifices only at the tabernacle in Shiloh. Their response was swift and passionate. They gathered at Shiloh, ready for war.

But instead of charging into battle, they sent Phinehas and leaders from each tribe to speak directly to their brothers. This act of courageous love—confrontation before condemnation—paved the way for clarity and healing.

The eastern tribes explained that the altar was not for sacrifice, but as a witness—a visible sign of unity in worship. They feared future generations might be told they had no part in the LORD. The altar was meant to declare: We are one people, serving one God.

Phinehas, once the fierce defender of holiness, responded not with further accusation, but with peace. He recognized the sincerity of his brothers and rejoiced that God was among them, because unity had been restored.

  • When have I jumped to conclusions instead of seeking understanding?
  • Do I care enough about my brothers and sisters in Christ to have hard conversations when needed?
  • Am I willing to listen, sacrifice, and forgive in order to preserve unity in the body of Christ?

 Truth to Embrace:

God calls His people to be holy—but also to be humble, willing to confront with love, and quick to seek peace.

Misunderstandings will happen, even among those who love God deeply. What matters most is how we respond: with boldness, grace, and a willingness to believe the best in each other. Just like the altar named Witness, may our lives be visible testimonies that the Lord is God and that His people are one in Him.

© 2025 June 11 – Amber Daffern

“Therefore be very courageous to keep and to do all that is written in the Book of the Law of Moses, lest you turn aside from it to the right hand or to the left.” — Joshua 23:6 (NKJV)

As Joshua neared the end of his life, he stood before Israel’s leaders—seasoned warriors and rising influencers alike—and reminded them of one unshakable truth: the LORD had fought for them.

Joshua could have recounted his own bravery, strategy, and leadership. After all, he had been Moses’ successor, the commander who led the people across the Jordan and into victory. But Joshua’s focus was not on himself. It was on what God had done.

“You have seen all that the LORD your God has done… for the LORD your God is He who has fought for you.” (v.3)

In this, Joshua models the heart of a true leader: one who sees God’s hand in every victory. And on the basis of God’s proven faithfulness, he issues a passionate call to obedience.

God had already given the land. The major battles were over. Yet, much remained unfinished—many enemies still occupied parts of the Promised Land. Each tribe had a role to play in completing what God had started. And the key to their success wasn’t more swords, more soldiers, or better tactics. It was this:

“Be very courageous to keep and to do all that is written…” (v.6)

Joshua connects courage—not to conquering enemies—but to obeying God’s Word fully. Why would obedience require courage?

Because total obedience isn’t always popular. It demands that we stay the course, even when culture tempts us to turn to the right or the left—into legalism, comfort, compromise, or sin. Obedience often costs us: time, pride, convenience, or ambition. But it is always worth it, because it aligns us with the God who has already proven His power and goodness.

And just like Israel, we are not called to obedience in a vacuum. We are called to obey because of what God has already done—in Jesus, who has given us rest, victory, and an inheritance in Him (Ephesians 1:3).

  1. What area of your life is God calling you to obey Him more fully, even if it feels difficult or risky?
    (Reflect on whether fear, comfort, or distraction is keeping you from total obedience.)
  2. How can remembering God’s past faithfulness help you stay committed to His Word today?
    (Think about specific ways He’s fought for you before—and how that can fuel your trust and obedience now.)

© 2025 June 12 – Amber Daffern

“But you shall hold fast to the LORD your God, as you have done to this day.”
Joshua 23:8 (NKJV)

Israel stood on the edge of promise and warning. After years of conquest and God’s miraculous victories, Joshua issued a firm, fatherly exhortation: Don’t make peace with the enemy.

Why such a strong word in a time of peace? Because compromise rarely begins loudly. It starts subtly—in the names we tolerate, the idols we ignore, the alliances we justify. Joshua warned the people not even to mention the names of the Canaanite gods, let alone worship them. To make peace with those idols would be to wage war on their own souls.

Hold fast to the Lord. That was the antidote to compromise. The word “hold fast” means to cling to, as a vine wraps around a tree or as a child clings to a parent. When we stay close to God—through His Word, in prayer, and in obedience—we are less vulnerable to the traps set by a world that glamorizes sin and camouflages danger.

God had given Israel victory, but He warned that if they allowed the enemy to remain—if they intermarried or adopted pagan ways—those enemies would become snares and traps, scourges on their sides, and thorns in their eyes. What was once an option would become an oppression.

In our own lives, we face modern Canaanites: compromise, pride, lust, materialism, fear, and cultural idols. These things may seem harmless—harmless entertainment, harmless relationships, harmless indulgences. But when we make peace with them, they slowly steal our peace with God.

God isn’t looking for partial loyalty. He calls us to a holy separation, not out of legalism, but out of love. As Joshua reminded the people: Take careful heed to yourselves, that you love the LORD your God (v. 11). Love for God is the fuel for obedience and the guardrail that keeps us from turning back.

  • What enemy have I made peace with in my life?
  • What would it look like today to “hold fast to the Lord” instead?

© 2025 June 13 – Amber Daffern

“Not one thing has failed of all the good things which the LORD your God spoke concerning you. All have come to pass for you; not one word of them has failed.”
Joshua 23:14 (NKJV)


As Joshua neared the end of his life, he gathered the leaders of Israel and gave them a solemn charge. His words were not only a reminder of God’s goodness—but a sobering warning. Joshua declared boldly that every promise God had made had come true. Not one word had failed.

That’s a powerful testimony from a man who had walked with God from Egypt to the edge of the Promised Land, then all the way through conquest and settlement. Joshua had lived the story—and he could say without hesitation, “God has never failed.”

But then came the warning: “As surely as God has blessed, He will also be faithful to judge.” This might feel uncomfortable. We love the promises. We celebrate the blessings. But we must also acknowledge that the same faithful God is just—and He will correct and discipline His people when they rebel.


God is not half-faithful. He is wholly faithful—to bless, to fulfill, and yes, to discipline.

  • Just as He fulfilled His promises to Israel, He also fulfilled His warnings when they turned away from Him.
  • His faithfulness means He cannot overlook sin.
  • But under the new covenant in Christ, we are not under the curse of the law (Galatians 3:13). Instead, we are lovingly corrected, refined, and pruned (Hebrews 12:7).

God’s correction is not rejection. It’s restoration. He disciplines those He loves to bring them back to full fellowship with Him. If we walk in obedience, we experience the full joy of His promises. If we wander, His loving hand redirects us—not to destroy us, but to restore us.
Joshua asked Israel to search their hearts. We must do the same.

  • Can you recall a time when God was unfaithful to you?
    You can’t—because He never was.

Are there ways you’ve experienced God’s discipline lately?
Could it be His love calling you back into alignment with Him?

© 2025 June 14 – Amber Daffern

“Then Joshua gathered all the tribes of Israel to Shechem… and they presented themselves before God.”
Joshua 24:1 (NKJV)

As Joshua neared the end of his life, he didn’t call Israel to a strategy meeting, a political summit, or even a military update. He gathered them at Shechem—a place full of history, covenant, and memory—and led them into remembrance.

Why? Because the strength of future faithfulness is built on the memory of past mercies.

From Abraham’s call out of a pagan land, to the dramatic deliverance from Egypt, to the wilderness provisions, to miraculous conquest in Canaan, Joshua told the story of God’s unwavering faithfulness. And he told it as if God Himself were speaking: “I took… I gave… I sent… I delivered.” This wasn’t Israel’s victory story—it was God’s victory story, and they were invited to live in it.

A Place of Remembering

Shechem wasn’t chosen at random. It was the place where Abraham first built an altar to the LORD in Canaan. The place where Jacob buried foreign idols. The place between Mount Ebal and Mount Gerizim where Israel had read the blessings and curses of the Law.

By calling them there, Joshua was saying, “Remember where you came from. Remember the God who brought you here.”

And as Joshua walked through history, he reminded the people:

  • You were called out of idolatry.
  • You were delivered out of slavery.
  • You were protected through wilderness seasons.
  • You were given victory over overwhelming enemies.
  • You are living in houses you didn’t build, eating from vineyards you didn’t plant.

Every chapter was grace. Every breakthrough was God’s doing.

A Call to Gratitude and Loyalty

This recounting wasn’t meant to flatter their spiritual ego—it was meant to humble their hearts. They weren’t the heroes. They were the recipients of mercy.

God wanted them to see: “You didn’t earn this. You couldn’t have achieved this on your own. I have carried you.”

So what now?

The unspoken question behind Joshua’s recounting was this: “Will you trust, love, and obey the God who has done all this for you?”

  1. What parts of your story bear the clear fingerprints of God?
    Can you trace His faithfulness in places where you didn’t deserve it?
  2. Have you built any personal “Shechem moments”—altars of remembrance?
    When was the last time you paused just to thank God for how far He’s brought you?
  3. Are you living with the humility of one who knows their life is a gift?
    Do you see your blessings as the result of your own effort or of God’s kindness?

© 2025 June 15 – Amber Daffern

1. The Call to Serve God Alone (v.14)

“Now therefore, fear the LORD, serve Him in sincerity and in truth, and put away the gods…”

Joshua begins not with a demand, but with a reminder: God has already proven His faithfulness. Israel had seen deliverance, miracles, provision, and victory. The logical response is reverence—“fear the LORD”—and wholehearted devotion.


  • God doesn’t ask us to follow Him blindly. He calls us based on His history of goodness in our lives. Take a moment to recall how He has proven Himself faithful to you. What “other gods” still compete for your attention—your past, culture, or comfort?

2. The Challenge to Choose (v.15)

“Choose for yourselves this day whom you will serve… But as for me and my house, we will serve the LORD.”

Joshua does not pretend neutrality is an option. Everyone serves something—heritage, society, self—but you must choose. His own resolve is inspiring and clear: I have chosen, and I will choose again today.

  • What would it look like for your household to follow God—not just in word, but in daily life? Are you allowing others’ choices to deter your commitment? Like Joshua, can you say: Even if no one else follows, I will?

3. The Reality of Covenant Faithfulness (v.16–21)

“We also will serve the LORD, for He is our God.”

The people respond with conviction, but Joshua warns them—it’s not a light vow. God is holy and jealous. A casual commitment won’t last. God wants loyalty, not lip service.

  • Are you prone to making spiritual promises during emotional highs, only to forget them later? Real covenant faith begins with sobriety and sincerity, and is sustained by daily obedience, not just occasional inspiration.

4. Covenant Requires Action (v.22–28)

“Now therefore…put away the foreign gods which are among you, and incline your heart to the LORD…”

Words alone weren’t enough. The people were called to repent and reorder their lives. A physical stone was set up as a witness—a permanent reminder of their promise to God.

  • What “foreign gods” are still present in your life? What distractions or idols must you cast down today? Don’t just feel conviction—act on it. Make a plan to obey. Let your life testify to your covenant with God.

© 2025 June 16 – Amber Daffern

“Joshua the son of Nun, the servant of the LORD, died, being one hundred and ten years old.” – Joshua 24:29

In the final verses of the book of Joshua, we don’t find a grand farewell speech or national celebration. Instead, we see something more meaningful: the quiet end of a life faithfully lived. Joshua, and later Eleazar, pass away—not in defeat or dishonor, but in the peace of fulfillment. Their stories remind us that while every life must come to an end, a life lived in covenant with God leaves behind a lasting legacy.

1. Joshua: The Servant of the LORD (vv.29–31)

“Joshua the son of Nun, the servant of the LORD, died…”

After all he had accomplished—conquering nations, leading Israel into their inheritance, remaining faithful in leadership—Joshua’s epitaph was simple: servant of the LORD. He lived 110 years, and his final reward was not applause, but quiet rest in the land God had given.

  • What do you want to be known for at the end of your life? Titles fade, accomplishments are forgotten, but to be remembered as a servant of the LORD is a legacy worth everything.

“Israel served the LORD all the days of Joshua…”

This is the fruit of Joshua’s life. His influence endured beyond his death, because he lived and led with integrity and godly fear. He didn’t just win battles—he modeled faithfulness.

  • Is your life leaving a spiritual wake behind you? Who will serve the Lord more deeply because of how you served Him?

2. Joseph’s Bones: A Promise Kept (v.32)

“The bones of Joseph… they buried at Shechem…”

At first glance, this seems minor. But it represents something powerful: God keeps promises—even across centuries. Joseph had made Israel swear to carry his bones back to the Promised Land (Genesis 50:25), and now, that oath is fulfilled.

  • Are you willing to trust God’s promises even when they don’t unfold in your lifetime? Joseph did. His burial wasn’t just closure—it was testimony: God finishes what He starts.

“By faith Joseph… gave instructions about his bones.” – Hebrews 11:22

3. Eleazar: A Link in the Priesthood Chain (v.33)

“Eleazar the son of Aaron died… they buried him in a hill belonging to Phinehas his son…”

With Eleazar’s death, another generation of spiritual leadership passes. But the priesthood doesn’t die—it continues through his son, Phinehas. The work of God moves forward, generation to generation.


  • Faithful leaders may pass on, but God’s mission does not. Are you preparing the next generation to carry the torch? Are you investing in those who will serve after you’re gone?

© 2025 June 17 – Amber Daffern

Rooted & Reaching Ministries