February 2025 Devotional | renewchurchcleveland

February 1 Standing Firm in the Armor of God Scripture: "Put on the full armor of God, so that you can take your stand against the devil’s schemes." — Ephesians 6:11 Devotional: Ephesians 6 reminds us that as believers, we are engaged in a spiritual battle. Paul urges us to be strong in the Lord and to put on the full armor of God so we can stand firm against the enemy’s attacks. This passage is not just about personal protection; it is a call to readiness, faithfulness, and reliance on God’s power. We are not fighting against flesh and blood but against spiritual forces that seek to destroy our faith, peace, and purpose. That is why we need every piece of armor: - The Belt of Truth keeps us anchored in God’s Word. - The Breastplate of Righteousness guards our hearts from sin. - The Gospel of Peace gives us stability in the face of trials. - The Shield of Faith protects us from doubt and fear. - The Helmet of Salvation secures our identity in Christ. - The Sword of the Spirit, God’s Word, equips us to stand against deception. Paul also emphasizes prayer—constant and persistent prayer—because our strength comes from our relationship with God. When we stand firm in His armor, we are not fighting alone; He fights for us. Reflection: Are you wearing the full armor of God daily? Which piece of armor do you need to strengthen in your life? How can you incorporate more prayer into your daily walk with Christ? Prayer: Lord, equip me with Your armor so I can stand firm against the enemy. Strengthen my faith, guard my heart, and help me walk in truth. Let my life reflect Your righteousness and peace. May I always be ready with the sword of Your Word and remain steadfast in prayer. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

February 3 Be Strong and Courageous Scripture: "Have I not commanded you? Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged, for the Lord your God will be with you wherever you go." — Joshua 1:9 Devotional: Joshua 1 marks a new beginning for God’s people. Moses had led them for years, but now Joshua was stepping into leadership. He faced a daunting task—leading Israel into the Promised Land, a land filled with challenges and unknowns. Yet, God’s message to him was clear: “Be strong and courageous.” This command was not based on Joshua’s abilities but on God’s unchanging presence. Three times, God tells Joshua to be strong and courageous because He would be with him. This is a powerful reminder that courage is not the absence of fear but trust in God despite fear. We, too, face seasons of transition, uncertainty, and challenges. Like Joshua, we are called to move forward in faith, trusting that God goes before us. His promises remain true—He will never leave us nor forsake us. When we meditate on His Word and obey Him, we find the strength to step into His plans with confidence. Reflection: What fears or uncertainties are you facing right now? How can you draw strength from God’s presence in your life? Are you meditating on God’s Word daily to find guidance and encouragement? Prayer: Heavenly Father, thank You for Your promise to be with me wherever I go. Help me to be strong and courageous in the face of fear and uncertainty. Teach me to trust in Your presence and follow Your Word wholeheartedly. I choose faith over fear today. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

February 4 Faith That Saves Scripture: “But the woman had taken the two men and hidden them. She said, ‘Yes, the men came to me, but I did not know where they had come from.’” — Joshua 2:4 Devotional: Joshua 2 tells the story of Rahab, a woman living in Jericho who made a bold decision to protect the Israelite spies. Though she was an outsider—a Canaanite and a prostitute—she chose to put her faith in the God of Israel rather than in the security of her city. Rahab had heard about the mighty works of God: how He parted the Red Sea and defeated Israel’s enemies. Her response was remarkable: instead of resisting God, she surrendered to Him. She declared, “The Lord your God is God in heaven above and on the earth below” (Joshua 2:11). Because of her faith, she and her family were saved when Jericho fell. Rahab’s story reminds us that God’s grace reaches beyond our past. No matter where we come from or what we’ve done, faith in God transforms our lives. Like Rahab, we must act on our faith, trusting that God can redeem, restore, and use us for His glory. Reflection: Have you placed your faith in God, even when it feels risky? What fears keep you from fully surrendering to Him? How can you trust God’s promises in your life today? Prayer: Lord, thank You for showing me that Your grace is greater than my past. Help me to trust You like Rahab did, even when it requires courage. Strengthen my faith and use my life for Your glory. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

February 5 Stepping Into the Unknown Scripture: "Then you will know which way to go, since you have never been this way before. But keep a distance of about two thousand cubits between you and the ark; do not go near it." — Joshua 3:4 Devotional: Joshua 3 tells the story of a defining moment in Israel’s journey: crossing the Jordan River into the Promised Land. The people had wandered in the wilderness for 40 years, and now they stood on the edge of God’s fulfilled promise. But there was a challenge—the river was at flood stage, making it impossible to cross. Yet God had a plan. He commanded the priests carrying the Ark of the Covenant to step into the water first. As soon as their feet touched the river, the water stopped flowing, and the people crossed on dry ground. This required faith—stepping forward before seeing the miracle. Like the Israelites, we often face "rivers" of uncertainty. God calls us to move forward in faith, even when we don’t see the outcome. He asks us to trust Him, to take that first step, and to follow His presence. When we do, He makes a way where there seems to be none. Reflection: What “Jordan River” are you facing in your life? Are you waiting to see the way before stepping in faith? How can you trust God’s presence to guide you through uncertainty? Prayer: Lord, I stand before the unknown, but I trust You to lead me. Help me to take steps of faith, knowing that You go before me. Strengthen my heart to follow You even when I cannot see the way. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

February 6 Remember What God Has Done Scripture: “In the future, when your children ask you, ‘What do these stones mean?’ tell them that the flow of the Jordan was cut off before the ark of the covenant of the Lord. When it crossed the Jordan, the waters were cut off. These stones are to be a memorial to the people of Israel forever.” — Joshua 4:6-7 Devotional: After Israel crossed the Jordan River on dry ground, God commanded Joshua to have twelve men take twelve stones from the riverbed and set them up as a memorial. These stones were meant to remind future generations of God’s faithfulness and power. Life moves quickly, and we can easily forget the ways God has provided, protected, and guided us. But just as the Israelites needed physical reminders, we also need to create ways to remember God’s work in our lives. Whether through journaling, testimonies, or personal "stones of remembrance," we can look back and see His hand at work. When we remember God’s past faithfulness, it strengthens our faith for the future. The same God who made a way through the Jordan will lead us through the challenges we face today. Reflection: What “stones of remembrance” do you have in your life? How has God shown His faithfulness to you? How can you pass down testimonies of God’s work to others? Prayer: Father, thank You for Your faithfulness in my life. Help me to remember Your goodness and share my testimony with others. May I trust You in the present, knowing that You have been faithful in the past. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

February 7 Preparing for the Promise Scripture: “At that time the Lord said to Joshua, ‘Make flint knives and circumcise the Israelites again.’” — Joshua 5:2 Devotional: Joshua 5 marks a significant transition for Israel. After crossing the Jordan, they were on the edge of their promised inheritance, but before moving forward, God required them to pause and prepare spiritually. The men were circumcised as a sign of their covenant with God, and they celebrated the Passover, remembering His deliverance. This moment teaches us that before stepping into new seasons of blessing, God often calls us to renewal and obedience. He desires our hearts to be fully aligned with Him. The Israelites could not fight the battles ahead or receive the fullness of the promise until they first surrendered in faith and obedience. Likewise, we must prepare our hearts before moving forward in God’s plans. This could mean letting go of sin, renewing our commitment to Him, or taking time to remember His faithfulness. When we align ourselves with God, we can walk confidently into the future He has prepared for us. Reflection: Is there an area in your life where God is calling you to spiritual renewal? Are you preparing your heart to walk in God’s promises? How can you take time to remember and celebrate God’s faithfulness? Prayer: Lord, as I step into the plans You have for me, help me to pause and prepare my heart. Show me areas where I need to be renewed and strengthened in my faith. I trust You to lead me into all that You have promised. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

February 8 Victory Through Obedience Scripture: “When the trumpets sounded, the army shouted, and at the sound of the trumpet, when the men gave a loud shout, the wall collapsed; so everyone charged straight in, and they took the city.” — Joshua 6:20 Devotional: Joshua 6 tells the famous story of the Battle of Jericho, where the walls of the city fell after Israel obeyed God’s unusual battle plan. Instead of fighting with swords and strategies, they marched around the city for six days, then on the seventh day, they marched seven times, blew their trumpets, and shouted. At that moment, the walls came down, and God gave them victory. This story teaches us that God’s ways are not always what we expect. Victory doesn’t come through our own strength but through obedience and trust in Him. The Israelites could have doubted, questioned, or tried to fight the battle their way, but instead, they followed God’s instructions exactly. Their faith in His promises led to their breakthrough. In our own lives, we often face walls—obstacles that seem impossible to overcome. But just like at Jericho, God calls us to trust Him completely. He may ask us to move in ways that don’t make sense, but if we follow His lead, He will bring the victory in His perfect timing. Reflection: What “walls” in your life feel impossible to break through? Are you trusting God’s plan, even when it doesn’t make sense? How can you practice obedience and patience in your walk with Him? Prayer: Lord, help me to trust You even when I don’t understand Your ways. Teach me to walk in obedience, knowing that victory comes from You alone. Strengthen my faith as I wait on Your perfect timing. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

February 10 Hidden Sin and Holy Living Scripture: Joshua 7:13 – “Go, consecrate the people. Tell them, ‘Consecrate yourselves in preparation for tomorrow; for this is what the Lord, the God of Israel, says: That which is devoted is among you, Israel. You cannot stand against your enemies until you remove it.’” Reflection: Joshua 7 tells the sobering story of Israel’s unexpected defeat at Ai. After their great victory at Jericho, the Israelites assumed Ai would be an easy conquest. However, they were defeated because of hidden sin in the camp—Achan had taken forbidden treasures and hidden them in his tent. His personal disobedience brought consequences not only upon himself but also upon the entire nation. God had given clear instructions that everything in Jericho was devoted to Him. Achan’s secret act violated that command, and as a result, Israel lost God’s favor in battle. When Joshua sought the Lord in confusion, God revealed the issue: Sin must be dealt with before victory can be restored. This passage teaches us that unconfessed sin can hinder our relationship with God and affect those around us. We may think our personal sins are private, but they have ripple effects. The good news is that when we repent and turn back to God, He is faithful to restore us. Application: Examine Your Heart: Is there any hidden sin you need to bring before God? Ask Him to reveal anything that separates you from Him. Seek Accountability: Sin thrives in secrecy. Confess your struggles to a trusted friend or mentor who can pray with you. Walk in Obedience: Blessings follow those who walk in integrity. Trust that God’s way is always better than shortcuts or compromises. Prayer: Father, I come before You with a humble heart. If there is anything in my life that displeases You, reveal it to me. Give me the courage to confess and turn away from sin. Help me walk in obedience, knowing that Your ways are always best. Restore my relationship with You and guide me in righteousness. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

February 11 The God of Second Chances Scripture: Joshua 8:1 – “Then the Lord said to Joshua, ‘Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged. Take the whole army with you, and go up and attack Ai. For I have delivered into your hands the king of Ai, his people, his city, and his land.’” Reflection: Failure is inevitable. The Israelites had just suffered a humiliating defeat in Joshua 7 because of Achan’s sin. But in Joshua 8, we see something remarkable—God doesn’t leave His people in their failure. Instead, He calls them to get up, obey Him, and move forward. Notice what God says to Joshua: “Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged.” These are the same words He spoke in Joshua 1 when calling Joshua to lead Israel. Why? Because failure, while painful, is not final with God. He is a God of grace, renewal, and second chances. The victory at Ai happens only after the sin in Israel is dealt with. This is a pattern we see throughout Scripture: God calls us to repentance not to shame us but to restore us. Sin has real consequences, but grace is greater. The gospel tells us that Jesus took on our failures, bore our judgment, and in exchange, gave us His victory. Because of Him, we can rise after failure and move forward in faith. Application: Failure is not the end. If you have sinned, don’t stay in shame—God invites you to repentance and restoration. Victory comes through dependence. Israel learned that they couldn’t win battles apart from God. Neither can we. Grace fuels obedience. God didn’t abandon Israel after their failure, and He won’t abandon you. His grace empowers us to keep going. Prayer: Father, I thank You that my failures do not define me—Your grace does. When I fall, remind me of Your mercy. Help me to trust You, obey You, and walk in the victory You have already won for me in Christ. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

February 12 The Danger of Self-Reliance Scripture: Joshua 9:14 – “So the Israelites took some of their provisions, but did not ask counsel from the Lord.” Reflection: In Joshua 9, the Gibeonites trick Israel into making a peace treaty by pretending to be from a distant land. Instead of seeking God's wisdom, the Israelites relied on their own judgment. The result? They were deceived. This story reveals a profound spiritual truth: self-reliance, rather than dependence on God, often leads us into trouble. The Israelites assumed they had enough wisdom to make the right decision, but their failure to seek God’s counsel left them vulnerable to deception. How often do we do the same? We move forward in life—making decisions about relationships, careers, or major commitments—without truly seeking God. We trust our instincts, rely on past experiences, or even lean on the advice of others, but fail to pray and wait on the Lord. But here’s the gospel encouragement: Even when we fail, God remains faithful. Though Israel was deceived, God still used the situation for good. Likewise, even when we make mistakes, God’s grace covers us. His wisdom is always available to us if we seek Him. Application: Pray first, act second. Before making decisions, seek God’s wisdom in prayer. Beware of self-reliance. Wisdom apart from God is foolishness. Depend on His guidance. Trust that God redeems mistakes. Even when we fail, His grace works for our good. Prayer: Father, forgive me for the times I trust in my own understanding rather than seeking You. Teach me to rely on Your wisdom in every decision. Even when I fail, remind me that Your grace is greater. Lead me in Your truth, so that I may walk faithfully with You. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

February 13 The God Who Fights for You Scripture: Joshua 10:14 – “There has never been a day like it before or since, when the Lord listened to a human being. Surely the Lord was fighting for Israel!” Reflection: Joshua 10 is one of the most mind-blowing moments in the Bible. Five kings unite against Israel, and instead of retreating, Joshua leads his army into battle. But here’s the amazing part—God steps in to fight for them in supernatural ways. First, He throws their enemies into confusion. Then, He rains down hailstones that take out more of the enemy than Israel’s swords. And finally, Joshua prays one of the boldest prayers ever recorded: “Sun, stand still!”—and God answers. This moment isn’t just about a battle in history; it’s a reminder of who God is. God fights for His people. He moves heaven and earth to accomplish His purposes. When we feel overwhelmed, outnumbered, or too weak to win the fight, we need to remember: the battle is the Lord’s. The same God who stopped the sun for Joshua has already won the ultimate battle for us through Jesus. The cross and the empty tomb prove that nothing—sin, death, or the enemy—can stand against Him. When you feel like you’re fighting a battle you can’t win, trust this: God is still fighting for you. Application: Pray bold prayers. Joshua asked for the impossible, and God responded. Are you asking God to do big things in your life? Trust God’s power, not yours. Victory doesn’t come from your strength but from God’s presence. Step forward in faith. Even when the odds seem stacked against you, walk confidently, knowing God fights for you. Prayer: Father, thank You for fighting for me. When I feel weak, remind me that You are strong. Give me the faith to pray bold prayers and trust You completely. No battle is too big for You, and no enemy can stand against You. I rest in Your victory today. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

February 14 Trusting God in the Long Battle Scripture: Joshua 11:18 – “Joshua waged war against all these kings for a long time.” Reflection: The conquest of the Promised Land wasn’t instant. Joshua 11 tells us that the battles lasted a long time. This is a crucial reminder for us: God’s victories often come through endurance, not immediacy. We tend to prefer quick resolutions—instant success, immediate answers to prayer, and fast breakthroughs. But God often works through a process, not a moment. The Israelites had to fight many battles over many years before they fully took possession of the land. Likewise, the Christian life is a long obedience in the same direction. Growth, healing, and victory over sin happen over time as we walk with God. But here’s the good news: God is in control, even in the long battles. Verse 6 reminds us that God had already given Israel the victory; they just had to keep going in faith. In the same way, Christ has already secured our ultimate victory over sin and death. Even when we don’t see immediate results, we can trust that God is working. Application: Don’t lose heart in long battles. God’s timing is often different from ours, but His faithfulness never fails. Walk by faith, not by sight. Even when you don’t see progress, trust that God is leading you forward. Remember that victory is already won. In Christ, the ultimate battle is over—now we walk in His strength. Prayer: Father, when I grow weary in the long battles of life, remind me that You are in control. Help me trust Your timing and walk in faith, even when I don’t see immediate results. Thank You that in Christ, victory is already mine. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

February 15 Remember What God Has Done Scripture: Joshua 12:1 – “These are the kings of the land whom the Israelites had defeated and whose territory they took over...” Reflection: At first glance, Joshua 12 looks like just a long list of defeated kings—names, places, and battles won. But this chapter is more than history; it’s a testimony. It’s a record of God’s faithfulness. Every name on that list represents a battle that seemed impossible—but God showed up. Every victory was proof that God was with His people. He had promised the land, and now, battle by battle, step by step, they were standing in the middle of the fulfillment of His Word. And here’s what that means for us: We need to keep track of what God has done. Life moves fast. We fight battles, overcome struggles, and then quickly move on to the next challenge. But what if we paused to remember? What if we wrote down our own list of “defeated kings”—our struggles, fears, and obstacles that God has already conquered? When we take time to reflect on God’s past faithfulness, we build faith for the future. The same God who brought you through before will bring you through again. He’s not done writing your story. Application: Make your own Joshua 12. Write down moments when God has shown up in your life—prayers answered, battles won, and miracles seen. Let past victories fuel future faith. When you face new challenges, remember what God has already done. Give God the glory. Every battle won is a testimony of His power, not ours. Prayer: Father, help me to remember all that You’ve done. When I face new battles, remind me of past victories. You have always been faithful, and I trust that You will be faithful again. Let my life be a testimony of Your power and grace. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

February 17 Devotional: Trusting God in the Unfinished Work Scripture: Joshua 13:1 – “When Joshua was old and well advanced in years, the Lord said to him, ‘You are very old, and there are still very large areas of land to be taken over.’” At this point in Israel’s history, Joshua is old, and yet the work of possessing the land remains incomplete. God Himself acknowledges this reality. The conquest, though remarkable, was not yet fully accomplished. There were still vast regions of Canaan left to be subdued. This passage reminds us of a crucial biblical theme: the tension between what has been achieved and what remains to be done. God had given Israel the land by promise, yet they were still required to take possession of it. This is a powerful picture of the Christian life. In Christ, believers have been given “every spiritual blessing in the heavenly realms” (Eph. 1:3), yet we are still called to work out our salvation (Phil. 2:12), striving forward until we reach the fullness of God’s promises. Joshua’s old age did not mean his task was over. Instead, God appointed him to divide the land among the tribes, even before they had fully taken possession of it. Here we see a lesson in faith: the people were to receive their inheritance based on God’s promise, even if their full enjoyment of it was still future. In our own lives, we often feel the weight of unfinished business. There are prayers unanswered, struggles unresolved, and aspects of our sanctification still in progress. Yet, God’s faithfulness is never in question. The same Lord who assured Joshua that He would fulfill His promise is the One who guarantees our future inheritance in Christ. Let us then walk by faith, trusting that what God has begun, He will surely complete (Phil. 1:6). Even when much remains undone, we rest in the certainty that our God is both sovereign and faithful. Prayer: Heavenly Father, thank You for Your promises. When we feel overwhelmed by the work left to do, remind us that You are faithful to complete what You have started. Help us to walk in obedience and trust, knowing that You are with us. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

February 18 Devotional: A Faith That Does Not Grow Old Scripture: Joshua 14:10-12 – “Now then, just as the Lord promised, he has kept me alive for forty-five years... So here I am today, eighty-five years old! I am still as strong today as the day Moses sent me out… Now give me this hill country that the Lord promised me that day.” At eighty-five years old, Caleb stands as a remarkable example of unwavering faith. While others grew weary, compromised, or settled, Caleb clung to God’s promises with the same boldness he had as a young man. His request in Joshua 14 is not for ease or security but for a challenge: the hill country still occupied by the Anakim—the very giants that had terrified Israel forty-five years earlier. What makes Caleb’s faith so striking? First, it is rooted in God’s promises, not his circumstances. He had seen an entire generation perish due to unbelief, yet he held firm to God’s Word. Second, his faith is active, not passive. He does not expect the land to be handed to him effortlessly but is ready to fight for what God has promised. Third, Caleb’s faith perseveres over time. The passing years did not diminish his confidence; instead, they strengthened it. Many believers start strong but struggle to finish well. The world, disappointments, or simple fatigue can make faith waver. Caleb, however, teaches us that trust in God is not bound by age or circumstances. The promises of God remain sure, and those who wait on Him will renew their strength (Isa. 40:31). Where is God calling you to exercise this kind of faith? Are there promises you have grown weary of holding onto? Caleb’s example urges us to stand firm, to keep believing, and to press on until we receive all that God has promised. Prayer: Lord, give me the faith of Caleb—a faith that does not waver, does not grow old, and does not shrink back in fear. Help me to trust Your promises no matter how long I must wait, and give me the strength to pursue Your calling with boldness. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

February 19 Devotional: The Boundaries of God's Promise Scripture: Joshua 15:13-14 – “According to the commandment of the Lord to Joshua, he gave to Caleb the son of Jephunneh a portion among the people of Judah, Kiriath-arba, that is, Hebron. And Caleb drove out from there the three sons of Anak.” One of the recurring themes in Scripture is that God’s promises come with responsibility. In Joshua 15, we see the detailed description of Judah’s inheritance—a land granted by divine decree. However, receiving this land did not mean the people could remain passive. Caleb, though advanced in years, still had to drive out the Anakim to take full possession of what was his. This passage reminds us of a crucial principle: God’s sovereignty does not negate our responsibility. Many today misunderstand divine sovereignty, assuming that if God has ordained something, human effort is unnecessary. But the Bible consistently teaches that God's promises do not eliminate the need for obedience and perseverance. Just as Caleb fought to secure his inheritance, we, too, are called to work out our salvation with fear and trembling (Phil. 2:12), knowing that it is God who works in us (Phil. 2:13). Moreover, Caleb’s victory over the Anakim serves as a testament to faith. These giants had once terrified Israel, causing an entire generation to fall into unbelief (Num. 13:31-33). Yet Caleb, standing on the promise of God, overcame them. In the same way, we must not allow the challenges before us—whether sin, suffering, or opposition—to shake our confidence in God's faithfulness. The boundaries of Judah’s inheritance in Joshua 15 illustrate another theological truth: God defines the limits of His people's inheritance. In our modern world, we often resist boundaries, wanting to chart our own course. But in His wisdom, God establishes limits for our good. He gives us gifts, responsibilities, and spheres of influence in which to serve Him. The question is, do we embrace what He has given us, trusting that He knows best? Let us learn from Caleb’s example. May we trust in God’s promises, actively pursue what He has given us, and stand firm in faith, knowing that what He has ordained, He will surely bring to pass. Prayer: Sovereign Lord, You are faithful to fulfill all that You have promised. Give me the heart of Caleb—a heart that trusts You, works diligently, and does not shrink back from the battles before me. Help me to embrace the boundaries You have set, knowing that they are for my good and Your glory. In Christ’s name, Amen.

February 20 Devotional: Incomplete Obedience and the Danger of Compromise Scripture: Joshua 16:10 – “However, they did not drive out the Canaanites who lived in Gezer, so the Canaanites have lived among the people of Ephraim to this day but have been made to do forced labor.” Joshua 16 describes the inheritance of the tribe of Ephraim, yet it ends on a troubling note—they did not fully drive out the Canaanites. Instead of complete obedience, they settled for a compromised solution, forcing the Canaanites into labor rather than removing them as God had commanded. This is a pattern we often see in our own spiritual lives. Partial obedience is still disobedience. We surrender some sins but hold onto others. We commit some areas of our lives to Christ but keep others for ourselves. Over time, these areas of compromise become stumbling blocks, much like the Canaanites later led Israel into idolatry. Why do we struggle with full obedience? Part of it is that we think we can manage sin rather than eradicate it. The Ephraimites believed they could control the Canaanites rather than remove them. We do the same—we think we can keep sin in check rather than putting it to death (Col. 3:5). But sin, like the Canaanites, is never content to remain passive. Left unchecked, it will always grow in influence. The gospel gives us a different way forward. Jesus’ obedience was never partial—it was complete. He fully obeyed where we have failed, and through His death and resurrection, He has given us the power to overcome sin. When we see His love and sacrifice, it reshapes our hearts, making obedience not a burden but a response of joy. Where have you settled for partial obedience? What compromises have crept into your faith? The call of Joshua 16 is to trust God enough to obey Him fully. It may feel costly, but in Christ, we have all we need to follow Him completely. Prayer: Father, forgive me for the areas where I have compromised instead of fully obeying You. Help me to trust that Your ways are better than my own. Give me the courage and strength to remove anything that keeps me from wholehearted devotion to You. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

February 21 Devotional: Faith to Take Full Possession Scripture: Joshua 17:17-18 – “But Joshua said to the house of Joseph, to Ephraim and Manasseh, ‘You are numerous and very powerful. You will have not only one allotment but the forested hill country as well. Clear it, and its farthest limits will be yours… though the Canaanites have chariots of iron and though they are strong, you can drive them out.’” In Joshua 17, the descendants of Joseph—Ephraim and Manasseh—complain that their land is not enough. They want more but hesitate to take possession of the hill country because the Canaanites there are strong and well-equipped. Joshua’s response is simple: God has given you the land—go and take it. This passage exposes a common struggle in our spiritual lives: we often want God to bless us without stepping out in faith. The tribes of Joseph had the resources and numbers, but instead of trusting in God’s promise, they focused on the obstacles—the fortified cities and iron chariots of their enemies. How often do we do the same? We know that God calls us to grow in faith, to step into new areas of obedience, to fight sin, or to trust Him in uncertainty. Yet, we hesitate because the obstacles seem too big. We say, “Lord, I want more of You, but I don’t want to do the hard work of fighting for it.” Joshua’s words remind us that God’s promises require active faith. Yes, there were iron chariots, but God was greater. Yes, the land was still covered in forests, but the people were strong enough to clear it. God had already given them victory—it was their job to step forward and claim it. In Christ, we have been given every spiritual blessing (Eph. 1:3), yet we must walk by faith to experience the fullness of those blessings. Are you settling for less because the road ahead looks difficult? Are you asking God for more without stepping into what He’s already given you? The lesson of Joshua 17 is clear: God is faithful to provide, but we must be faithful to act. Trust Him, step forward in faith, and take hold of all He has promised you. Prayer: Lord, forgive me for the times I have focused more on obstacles than on Your promises. Strengthen my faith to step into all that You have for me. Help me to trust You more and act in obedience, knowing that You go before me. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

February 22 Devotional: Why Are You Waiting? Scripture: Joshua 18:3 – “So Joshua said to the Israelites: ‘How long will you wait before you begin to take possession of the land that the Lord, the God of your ancestors, has given you?’” At this point in Joshua, the major battles have been won, and the land has been divided, yet seven tribes have still not taken possession of their inheritance. They are hesitant, delaying what God has already given them. Joshua’s question is pointed: Why are you waiting? This is not just an ancient problem—it’s a modern one. Many of us live like these tribes, hesitant to step into the fullness of what God has given us. We know He has called us to greater faith, deeper trust, and fuller obedience, but we hesitate. Why do we wait? Sometimes it’s fear—we don’t trust that God will provide as we move forward. Other times, it’s complacency—we would rather stay in the familiar than face the challenges ahead. And often, it’s uncertainty—we want absolute clarity before we take a step, forgetting that faith means moving forward even when we don’t see the whole picture. But Joshua’s challenge reminds us that God’s promises require response. The land was already theirs, but they needed to step out and claim it. Likewise, in Christ, we have been given every spiritual blessing (Eph. 1:3), but we will never fully experience them if we remain passive. The gospel gives us the power to move forward. Jesus has already won the ultimate victory for us—defeating sin and death—so we don’t have to live in hesitation. If God has called you to something, you can trust that He will provide what you need. So let’s ask ourselves: Where am I waiting when I should be stepping forward in faith? The same God who urged the Israelites onward is calling you to trust Him today. Prayer: Father, forgive me for hesitating when You have already provided the way forward. Help me to trust You more, to step out in faith, and to take hold of all that You have given me in Christ. Strengthen me to live fully in the inheritance You have provided. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

February 24 Finding Your Inheritance in God Scripture: "These were the inheritances that Eleazar the priest, Joshua son of Nun, and the heads of the families of the Israelite tribes assigned by lot at Shiloh in the presence of the Lord at the entrance to the tent of meeting. So they finished dividing the land." — Joshua 19:51 Devotional Thought: Joshua 19 describes the distribution of the remaining land among the tribes of Israel. After years of wandering in the wilderness and fighting for the Promised Land, the people finally received their inheritance. Each tribe was given a portion, not randomly, but according to God’s sovereign plan. It is easy to overlook these detailed lists of territories, but they remind us of a powerful truth: God has a specific inheritance for each of His children. Just as He assigned land to each tribe, He has a unique purpose, calling, and provision for you. Sometimes, we may feel like others receive their blessings while we are still waiting. Consider the tribe of Dan, who struggled to secure their territory (Joshua 19:47) and had to fight for it. Your inheritance in Christ may require perseverance, faith, and trust in His timing, but it is assured. Reflection Questions: Do you trust that God has a specific plan and inheritance for you? Are you actively seeking His guidance to step into what He has prepared for you? How can you remain faithful while waiting for His promises to be fulfilled? Prayer: Heavenly Father, thank You for the inheritance You have prepared for me. Help me to trust in Your perfect plan, even when I cannot see the full picture. Give me faith and perseverance to step into all You have for me. In Jesus' name, Amen.

February 25 The City of Refuge and the Heart of the Gospel “Tell the Israelites to designate the cities of refuge, as I instructed you through Moses.” — Joshua 20:2 The Refuge We Need In Joshua 20, God commands the Israelites to establish cities of refuge—places where someone who had unintentionally killed another could flee for protection until they received a fair trial. These cities were strategically placed so that no one in Israel was far from mercy. They were a provision of grace in a world where vengeance was the norm. This concept is radical. In ancient cultures, justice was often swift and unforgiving. But here, God builds mercy into the fabric of Israel’s society. Why? Because this is who He is. The cities of refuge point us to a deeper reality: we all need a place of refuge. Jesus: Our True City of Refuge The cities of refuge were not just about legal protection; they foreshadowed Christ. Hebrews 6:18 says that we have “fled to take hold of the hope set before us”—Jesus Himself is our ultimate refuge. Think about it: The cities of refuge were open to anyone, just as Jesus welcomes all who come to Him (Matthew 11:28). The manslayer had to flee to the city, just as we must run to Christ in faith. The accused was safe only inside the city, just as we are safe only in Christ (Romans 8:1). Unlike the cities of refuge, where only the innocent or accidental offender could stay, Jesus is a refuge for the guilty. He doesn’t just protect us from punishment—He takes our punishment upon Himself. On the cross, He bore the wrath we deserve so that we might find rest in Him. What This Means for Us You don’t have to defend yourself. We live in a world where we feel the need to justify ourselves—at work, in relationships, even before God. But in Christ, we have a refuge from the burden of proving our worth. You can extend mercy. If God provided refuge even for those who had caused harm, how much more should we reflect His mercy in how we forgive others? Run to Him. The cities of refuge were useless to those who didn’t flee to them. Likewise, the refuge of Christ is not just a concept—it must be received. Are you taking shelter in Him, or are you still trying to manage life on your own? Prayer: Father, I run to You today as my refuge. I confess that I am guilty, not just of mistakes but of sin. Thank You for Jesus, who took my place and offers me safety in Your love. Help me to live in that security and extend Your mercy to others. Amen.

February 26 God Keeps His Promises “Not one of all the Lord’s good promises to Israel failed; every one was fulfilled.” — Joshua 21:45 The Faithfulness of God Joshua 21 wraps up the land distribution in Israel by highlighting one key truth: God keeps His promises. The Levites, who were set apart for God’s service, finally received their cities among the other tribes. And at the end of the chapter, we get this powerful declaration—every single promise God made to Israel came true. Think about that. After years of slavery, wandering in the wilderness, battles, struggles, and waiting, not one of God’s promises failed. We often struggle with trust because we live in a world where people break promises. Leaders fail us. Friends let us down. Even our own plans don’t always work out. But God is different—His word never fails. If He says He will do something, it’s as good as done. What This Means for You You Can Trust Him Completely – If God was faithful to Israel, He will be faithful to you. Whatever He has promised in His Word, He will bring to pass. His Timing Is Perfect – The Levites had to wait until the very end to receive their portion, but they still got exactly what God had planned. If you’re waiting on a promise from God, don’t lose heart—He is working even when you can’t see it. Live Like You Believe It – If we truly believe that God is faithful, it should change the way we live. We can walk in confidence, obedience, and peace, knowing that we serve a God who never fails. Final Thought Are you holding onto a promise from God? Maybe it feels like it's taking too long or like circumstances are making it impossible. Joshua 21:45 is your reminder: God does not fail. Prayer: Father, thank You for being faithful in all things. Even when I doubt, You remain true to Your Word. Help me to trust in Your promises and live with confidence in Your goodness. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

February 27 Living in Unity and Obedience “Hold fast to Him and serve Him with all your heart and with all your soul.” — Joshua 22:5 A Call to Stay Faithful In Joshua 22, the tribes of Reuben, Gad, and half of Manasseh had fulfilled their commitment to help the other Israelites conquer the Promised Land. Now, they were finally able to return home. But before they left, Joshua gave them an important reminder: Stay faithful to God! It’s easy to seek God when we’re in a battle, but what about when life is going well? Joshua knew that once these tribes settled in, there would be temptations to drift away. That’s why he told them to “love the Lord, walk in His ways, obey His commands, hold fast to Him, and serve Him with all their heart” (Joshua 22:5). This is a reminder for us, too. The real test of faith isn’t just in difficult seasons—it’s in how we stay committed to God when things seem stable. How Do You Stay Spiritually Strong? Stay in God’s Word – Don’t just read the Bible occasionally. Make it your daily guide for life. (Psalm 119:105) Stay Connected to Other Believers – We need each other to stay strong in faith. Isolation leads to spiritual drift. (Hebrews 10:25) Keep Serving God – Don’t let comfort make you complacent. Look for ways to use your gifts to serve God and others. (1 Peter 4:10) Watch Out for Misunderstandings Later in this chapter, the eastern tribes built an altar—not as an act of rebellion, but as a reminder of their unity with the rest of Israel. The other tribes almost went to war over a misunderstanding! This teaches us an important lesson: Miscommunication can cause division, even among God’s people. Instead of jumping to conclusions, we should seek understanding and approach one another with grace. Final Thought Are you staying as close to God in good times as you do in hard times? Are you living in unity with other believers? Hold fast to God, walk in His ways, and pursue peace with others. Prayer: Lord, help me to stay faithful to You in every season of life. Keep me close to Your Word, connected to Your people, and committed to serving You. Give me wisdom to pursue peace and understanding with others. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

February 28 Clinging to God in a World That Pulls You Away “But you are to hold fast to the Lord your God, as you have until now.” — Joshua 23:8 The Danger of Spiritual Drifting As Joshua nears the end of his life, he gives Israel a final charge in Joshua 23. The land has been conquered, the battles have been fought, and now the real challenge begins: Will Israel remain faithful to God? Joshua warns them not to drift. He reminds them that it was God, not their strength, that gave them victory (v. 3). And he gives them a choice—cling to God or be pulled away by the culture around them. This is the great challenge of the Christian life. The real enemy is not just suffering or hardship, but prosperity and comfort that slowly make us forget our need for God. When life is hard, we cling to Him. But when things are good, we are tempted to become spiritually complacent. What Does It Mean to "Hold Fast" to God? Remember His Faithfulness – Joshua urges Israel to recall all that God has done for them. We, too, must actively remind ourselves of God’s grace in our lives. Forgetting His goodness leads to wandering hearts. (Psalm 103:2) Guard Your Heart Against Idols – The nations around Israel worshiped false gods, and the temptation to follow them was strong. Today, our idols may be success, approval, or comfort—things that subtly steal our ultimate trust. (1 John 5:21) Stay Rooted in God's Word – The world will constantly pull us in different directions. The only way to stay faithful is to let God’s truth shape our thoughts and actions daily. (John 17:17) The Gospel Connection Joshua warned that if Israel turned away from God, they would face judgment (v. 12-16). But here’s the beauty of the gospel: Where Israel failed, Jesus succeeded. He held fast to the Father perfectly, even when facing the cross. And now, because of Him, we have a secure place in God’s presence—not by our own faithfulness, but by His. The real question is not, “How tightly can I hold on to God?” but rather, “Do I believe He is holding on to me?” In Christ, we are eternally secure, and that gives us the strength to cling to Him in return. Final Thought Are you holding fast to God, or are you slowly drifting? The world won’t push you toward faithfulness—it will pull you away. But when you see Jesus, the true Joshua, who held fast to you even unto death, your heart will long to hold fast to Him. Prayer: Father, help me to hold fast to You. Guard my heart from drifting, and remind me daily of Your faithfulness. Thank You that Jesus held fast to You on my behalf so that I can rest in Your love. Amen.