Today’s Bible Reading

July 1

Old Testament I
Joshua 14, 15
Joshua 14 and 15 both deal with the division of the land of Canaan among the tribes of Israel.

In Joshua 14, we see that the tribe of Judah received its portion of the land, with Caleb, one of the spies who had explored the land of Canaan forty years earlier, receiving a special inheritance because of his faithfulness to God. Caleb requested the land of Hebron, which he had explored, and was granted it by Joshua.

In Joshua 15, the tribe of Judah's inheritance is further detailed, with the southern border of their land being described. The chapter also lists the cities and towns that were allotted to Judah, including Jerusalem, which was not conquered until later by King David. The chapter concludes by mentioning Caleb again, this time in reference to his daughter Achsah, who was given to him in marriage as a reward for his bravery in battle.

Overall, these two chapters emphasize the fulfillment of God's promise to give the land of Canaan to the Israelites and the importance of faithfulness and obedience to God in receiving His blessings.

Old Testament II
Isaiah 10:6-34
Isaiah 10:6-34 describes the judgment of God upon Assyria for their pride and oppression of His people. The passage begins with God declaring that He will use Assyria as a tool to punish Israel for their disobedience. However, God also holds Assyria accountable for their arrogance and their belief that their military might and power comes solely from themselves, rather than recognizing God as the source of their strength.

God warns Assyria that they will face judgment for their actions, and that their destruction will come swiftly and without mercy. The passage goes on to describe the devastation that will be wrought upon Assyria, including the destruction of their cities and the loss of many lives.

Isaiah also emphasizes the righteousness and justice of God, and how His actions against Assyria are in line with His character and His desire to protect and defend His people. The passage ends with a message of hope for God's people, as Isaiah proclaims that in the midst of the destruction and chaos, God will provide a refuge and a safe haven for those who trust in Him.

Overall, this passage emphasizes the importance of humility, obedience, and trust in God, and warns against the dangers of pride and oppression. It also shows God's faithfulness to His people, even in the midst of judgment and suffering.

New Testament
1 Thessalonians 2:1-16
In 1 Thessalonians 2:1-16, the Apostle Paul defends his ministry and explains the motives and methods that he and his companions used to preach the Gospel in Thessalonica. Paul emphasizes that his message was not based on deceit or impure motives, but on the desire to please God and share the good news of Jesus Christ. He also affirms his love for the Thessalonian believers and his willingness to suffer persecution for the sake of the Gospel.

Paul begins by reminding the Thessalonians that he and his companions had faced significant opposition and mistreatment in Philippi before coming to Thessalonica. Despite this, they boldly proclaimed the Gospel without fear or hesitation. Paul explains that their message was not motivated by error, impurity, or deceit. Instead, they had been approved by God to be entrusted with the Gospel and had preached it with sincerity, as those seeking to please God and not men.

Paul also highlights the purity of their conduct while among the Thessalonians. He did not use flattery or seek to deceive them for personal gain, but instead spoke honestly and openly with them. He also affirms his deep love for the Thessalonians, likening them to his own children, and expresses his desire to visit them again.

Furthermore, Paul acknowledges the suffering and persecution that the Thessalonians had endured for their faith. He encourages them by reminding them that they were not alone in their struggles but were in fact following in the footsteps of the Jewish prophets who had also suffered for their faith. He also affirms their importance and special place in the heart of God.

In summary, Paul defends his ministry and motives, emphasizing the sincerity and purity of their message and conduct. He expresses his love for the Thessalonians and acknowledges their suffering for the sake of the Gospel. Through his words, Paul seeks to encourage and strengthen the Thessalonians in their faith and commitment to Christ.