Judges 2 “Strongholds”

Judges 2 – Brandon Hatmaker “Strongholds”
Austin New Church – South Austin Cares
Thursday, July 28th, 2008

“Now therefore I tell you that I will not drive them out before you; they will be thorns in your sides and their gods will be a snare to you." – Judges 2:3

Just a short thought for today… but this is the verse that stood out to me. The Israelites had made some poor decisions in allowing the Canaanites to stay among them. And they now have to live with those consequences.

We experience the same. It’s interesting how when times are tough, we sometimes blame God or ask Him “why” we are in the situation and why He wont seem to help us out… yet many times the reason we are in that situation is because of a decision we’ve made to either disobey or simply just live without consulting God’s leading in the first place.

I think we would all see things a bit more clearly if we would ask first, “seriously, self, how did I get myself into this situation?” I think we’d then learn from our past, make better decisions in the future, and the best part... protect our heart when it comes to placing blame on others… especially God.

Now, I do acknowledge that not all issues are a result of what “we “ do. How would an abandoned child take blame for a parent leaving. However, in understanding the nature of man (as adults) we know that we cannot control how others act… especially when it comes to bosses, parents, etc… but what we can do, is take this perspective and apply it to ourselves as bosses, parents, etc… and break the pattern.

Judges 1 “Personal Cult”

Judges 1 – Brandon Hatmaker “Personal Cult”
Austin New Church – South Austin Cares
Wednesday, July 27th, 2008

“The book of Judges shows us a time that is sometimes confusing, difficult, and dark. For this reason, many have neglected the book of Judges, and regarded this period as a "dark ages" of Israel's history. However, if we neglect this book, we neglect a wonderful account of the love and graciousness of God, and how He lovingly corrects His people. What we find out about man in Judges is depressing; but what we find out about God in Judges is spectacular” – Author Unknown

“But Manasseh did not drive out the people of Beth Shan or Taanach or Dor or Ibleam or Megiddo and their surrounding settlements, for the Canaanites were determined to live in that land. When Israel became strong, they pressed the Canaanites into forced labor but never drove them out completely.” Judges 1:27-28

In contrast to the method in which Israel took most of the land in their conquests, history as well as scripture shows that the Israelites absorbed the Canaanite communities peacefully. While that seems pretty favorable and appropriate if possible, many theologians consider this to be the result of slothfulness and/or a lack of contempt for their gods.

The Canaanites were a people who absorbed and assimilated the features of many cultures of the ancient Near East for at least 500 years. That assimilation influenced the Greeks and Romans, as well as influenced greatly Western Civilization. The god of the city of Shechem, which city the Israelites had absorbed peacefully under Joshua, was called Baal-berith. Here is the problem: Shechem became the first CULTIC center of the religious tribal confederacy of the Israelites during the period of the judges.

Robert A. Guisepi, editor for the project “Canaanite culture and religion” for History World International, wrote that “The religion of the Canaanite agriculturalists proved to be a strong attraction to the less sophisticated and nomadic-oriented Israelite tribes. Many Israelites succumbed to the allurements of the fertility-laden rituals and practices of the Canaanite religion, partly because it was new and different from the Yahwistic religion and, possibly, because of a tendency of a rigorous faith and ethic to weaken under the influence of sexual attractions. As the Canaanites and the Israelites began to live in closer contact with each other, the faith of Israel tended to absorb some of the concepts and practices of the Canaanite religion.”

This is bad news. So the questions that come to mind are these (1) what "personal cults" have I allowed to remain in my life that has the potential to creep it’s way anonymously into my faith and (2) what am I doing or have I done in the name of “peace” that is actually a form of compromise or slothfulness on my part?

Whether we're seeking to live missionally or not, these two questions can saturate everything and every part of each of us. From our marriages and friendships, to parenting, to our work places, and beyond. Each of these are under the umbrella of our personal faith… which as we see in the Judges (and recent history)… none of us are beyond temptation. While God's methods under the Old Covenant seem harsh, the annihilation of the nations that Israel overcame is a great example to us today under the New Covenant of how we are to approach sin in our own personal lives through Christ. It's also a great warning of the destruction that sin can cause in our lives and relationships when left unchecked.

Father, today I ask that you would show me the areas of temptation and compromise that I have allowed to stay in or too close to my life. Help me to see which areas are there for the right reasons and the ones that are there for the wrong ones. I ask you for wisdom in leading and in living. In Jesus name, amen.

Joshua 24 “Choose Slavery”

Joshua 24 – Brandon Hatmaker “Choose Slavery”
Austin New Church - South Austin Cares
Tuesday, August 26th, 2008

“But if serving the LORD seems undesirable to you, then choose for yourselves this day whom you will serve, whether the gods your forefathers served beyond the River, or the gods of the Amorites, in whose land you are living. But as for me and my household, we will serve the LORD." – Joshua 24:15

Ah… there it is. As for me and my house… we will serve the Lord. But what does that mean? What if I volunteer in the children’s area on Sundays? What if I help set up or serve as a greeter before services? How about if I lead a small group?

All these things are great. But serving in the church as we traditionally see it didn’t exist when Joshua first wrote this. It meant something more than that, both specifically and holistically.

The Hebrew word “serve” that Joshua used in this closing chapter meant to be “enslaved”. One who is enslaved does not live for him self, ever. They are not allowed to... they don’t have that luxury. Yet Joshua is submitting himself to this bond. Willingly, because He knows it’s best, and he desires to stay in the favor of His God. Reminds me of Moses when he said in Exodus, “Lord if you don’t go with us, please don’t send us.”

The greatest reminder for me today is that my faith is not to be compartmentalized. It’s not to be offered only one day a week, and certainly not as a guilt offering. It’s not just in serving our own church, our own children’s programs, or own friends and family. That’s not what this is talking about. It’s not just something we do, or go to, but something we are. Therefore it impacts each area of our lives and all of our relationships and priorities. In fact… it fosters new intentional relationships that might have never existed and puts new priorities on our agenda in areas that we, or our church, may NEVER see personal benefit from.

We need to give ourselves permission to do this and make it a priority. This does not happen without intentionality (It doesn’t happen over night either). Becoming this is our journey as we learn to serve the Lord with all our heart, with all of our mind, and with all our strength.

Honestly, we’re all slaves to something. That’s what Joshua is saying. If we don’t deliberately pursue one, we’ll certainly fall to the other (or worse, to ourselves).

Joshua 23 “We’ve Seen It”

Joshua 23 – Brandon Hatmaker “We’ve Seen It”
Monday, August 25th, 2008

"You yourselves have seen everything the LORD your God has done to all these nations for your sake; it was the LORD your God who fought for you. Remember how I have allotted as an inheritance for your tribes all the land of the nations that remain—the nations I conquered—between the Jordan and the Great Sea in the west. The LORD your God himself will drive them out of your way. He will push them out before you, and you will take possession of their land, as the LORD your God promised you.” – Joshua 23:3-5

Here is where the big “therefore” comes into play. Over 400 times it’s used in the bible… while the word is not used in this passage… the heart of it is certainly there.

Joshua is saying, hey fella’s (and ladies), take a step back for a moment and see all that God has done for you. Seriously, don’t miss it. Take a moment and take it in. Count your blessings, if you will. Consider yourself blessed… and even favored. Now, in light of this… "Be very strong; be careful to obey all that is written…” (vs.6)

God doesn’t just tell us to do stuff or to believe certain things because He can. He's not a bully. It’s always with purpose. It is always with Godly wisdom and reason, whether in correction or blessing. He asks us to respond… and not forget. In Leviticus he put it like this: “I am the LORD who brought you up out of Egypt to be your God; therefore be holy, because I am holy.”

In Deuteronomy He put it like this, “Know therefore that the LORD your God is God; he is the faithful God, keeping his covenant of love to a thousand generations of those who love him and keep his commands.”

Jumping to the New Testament we see it in Paul's letter to the Church at Corinth, “So from now on we regard no one from a worldly point of view. Though we once regarded Christ in this way, we do so no longer. Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, he is a new creation; the old has gone, the new has come! All this is from God, who reconciled us to himself through Christ and gave us the ministry of reconciliation…”

Father, you took us from the position of slavery to being called sons and daughters of the King. Forgive us when we live and pursue life forgetting any of what You’ve done. Amen

Joshua 22 “Suspicious”

Joshua 22 – Brandon Hatmaker “Suspicious”
Friday, August 22nd, 2008

After reading the last few verses of chapter 21, that the Lord gave them “rest on every side” and that they “took possession of” the land… I was… well… I was suspicious about what was to come. I don’t know that I have ever studied Joshua this deliberately and couldn’t recall exactly what was next… I just knew the end of the story was coming. So I read ahead to see how the cycle of the people immediately doing something wrong continued. But it didn’t (at least not for now), and I was wrong. And I was glad.

Instead, there were great words of instruction like what is found in verse 5, “But be very careful to keep the commandment and the law that Moses the servant of the LORD gave you: to love the LORD your God, to walk in all his ways, to obey his commands, to hold fast to him and to serve him with all your heart and all your soul."

And while at first, it seemed like the altar the Reuben-ites, the Gadites, and the half-tribe of Manasseh built in Gilead was built out of rebellion (that would have been my first impression as well), it turns out that they didn’t. It was in good intention, and only for a reminder to future generations that they worshiped the same God. The Israelites found out soon enough that their heart was in the right place in regards to the structure.

This was obviously a “tender” spot for the Israelites. It was idol worship at Peor where they first turned away from God, and they knew they needed to be careful in this area. They knew that while they enjoyed God’s favor in this day, if they “rebelled”, then tomorrow they could all experience God’s anger.

I would say most of us have “idol” issues. I do. It’s so easy to take things that are supposed to be about God, and make them about us.

There are traditions of faith we hold up as more sacred than we should. There are many physical things in our lives that we value more than we should. As believers, there are initiatives in the church that we can easily pursue for the wrong reasons. This is our battle. This chapter serves as a reminder to me first of all of my nature to want to “build” things for God, and that when I do, to be aware of my motive and heart. While they were found faithful with this altar in Gilead, it was still a good idea for a good ole “heart check”. Phinehas served as a great accountability partner. None of us are above that.

God, search our hearts. Show us where we have wrong motives. Show us our idols. Show us the things we are “building” that are more about us than they are about you. Today I ask that you gently instruct us in the way we should go. Help us to remove them. Amen.

Joshua 21 “Future Tense”

Joshua 21 – Brandon Hatmaker “Future Tense”
Thursday, August 21st, 2008

“So the LORD gave Israel all the land he had sworn to give their forefathers, and they took possession of it and settled there. The LORD gave them rest on every side, just as he had sworn to their forefathers. Not one of their enemies withstood them; the LORD handed all their enemies over to them. Not one of all the LORD's good promises to the house of Israel failed; every one was fulfilled.” – Joshua 21:43-45

What an amazing reminder of God’s faithfulness. Makes me think of Paul’s words to the Romans when he wrote, “And hope does not disappoint us…”. Just like God’s promises were fulfilled in Joshua (He’s the same yesterday, today, and forever), we can be confident that all that we hope for in Christ has been, is being, and will be fulfilled. But in my flesh, I also see the danger in focusing too much on what is ahead because I tend to forget about today. In fact, forget about eternity distracting me, just thinking about tomorrow throws me off. If I’m not careful, it typically does one of two things to me: It either makes me relax too much or I get anxious about all the things that need to be done. Neither of these responses seem appropriate. (I’m working on it.)

I’m reminded of an old saying I used to hear all the time in “church” circles. It was a warning not to be so “heavenly minded” that we’re no “earthly good”. While at first blush, it either makes you defensive or you find yourself in agreement, either way, it’s a good tension to ponder.

Bottom line, our hope in the future should bring confidence for today. It’s not about escapism which results in being “no earthly good”. Paul did not see being in “chains” as something to simply survive because one day he knew he’d be in heaven. Instead, he said that, “what has happened to me has really served to advance the gospel. As a result, it has become clear throughout the whole palace guard and to everyone else that I am in chains for Christ.” Paul had hope, not only for tomorrow, but also for today.

Therefore, hope’s intention was not to offer distraction or permission for complacency. That is our nature, not God’s. It’s offered for the task at hand. Whether that is in living for Christ tangibly or intangibly.

So we’ve focused on hope for today… now that we have perspective… let’s also give ourselves permission to enjoy our future of Hope. John Piper gave some great thoughts on this… “So don’t make the mistake of thinking that future-oriented, future-sustained joy limits present usefulness. It doesn’t limit it. It liberates it. If your future is glorious and sure (which it is in Christ!), you don’t live for money or power or fame. You don’t have to grasp and snatch and chase pleasures that are slipping through your aging fingers. You are free to live for others now. You are free to be another kind of person than the kind that lives for this world. If your hope is glorious and sure, you will seek first the kingdom of God and his righteousness and all these other basic things will be added to you (Matthew 6:33). Your love will be genuine. It will be radical, risk-taking, sacrificial because of the joy set before you.”

He’s saying that if we really believe the hope we profess… it WILL impact our today and tomorrow. This is one of those huge spiritual “both/and” situations. I love it.

So let’s get back to the heart of the matter, in light of our great future as children of God, what is our task at hand? I read a Blog this morning critiquing NT Wrights, book “Simply Christian”. I thought a portion of it’s writing was a good bit of encouragement and would be a nice “bow” on top of this package. Here’s what it said”

“Overall, I think Wright is on target with a simple message that most Christians would agree on, but which we find distressingly hard to actually do: live Christlike lives. If the world’s encounter with Christianity came through loving, peaceful, gracious, helpful Christian lives, and not through angry politics or theological bickering, the Kingdom of God might not seem quite so distant as it sometimes appears today.”

Father, you have given us hope for today. Help us to know it and live it. Amen.

Joshua 20 "On Accident"

Joshua 20 – Brandon Hatmaker “On Accident”
Wednesday, August 20th, 2008

What an amazing chapter of due process, protection, and judgment. I don’t know if I’m more impressed that it was revealed and instructed through Moses many battles and ventures prior or by the fact that the Israelites actually followed through with the instructions. Either way, God had given an amazing process that very closely foreshadows the refuge found in Christ for the guilty who would flee to Him.

However, there is one thought about this whole thing that rubbed me a bit this morning. It is first introduced in verse 3, when it says that these cities were to be designated “so that anyone who kills a person accidentally and unintentionally may flee there and find protection from the avenger of blood.”

Now, I don’t know about you… but I haven’t “accidentally or unintentionally” killed anyone lately. I think most of us would agree that this would be a rare occasion in our society and would certainly not necessitate an entire city of refuge. Even in moments of accidental death, most would come without those who desire to be “avengers” due to their obvious unintentionality. No matter the harsh society they lived in, this is hard for me to grasp.

Enter our lives and the “unintentional”. Whether we deliberately choose to sin out of rebellion to God or selfishness, or we just do so of our nature under the “head” of Adam, we know that sin is sin. Many do not view their sin as intentional… or even as sin… in fact, most of us have sins that are not just intentionally “secret”, there are many that we are downright blind to.

So I am reminded today of (1) our ignorance and blindness to our own sin, but also (2) that whether they are unintentional or accidental, whether we are oblivious to our own actions or do them on purpose… the consequence of sin is still death. And for all of us, our established city of refuge that was appointed by God before the beginning of time was, is, and always will be, Jesus.

While it makes me want to search out my “unintentional and accidental” sin issues (which is a good thing), today I’m even more thankful that Jesus paid it all and for all.

Joshua 19 “Taking Possession”

Joshua 19 – Brandon Hatmaker “Taking Possession”
Tuesday, August 19th, 2008

“These are the territories that Eleazar the priest, Joshua son of Nun and the heads of the tribal clans of Israel assigned by lot at Shiloh in the presence of the LORD at the entrance to the Tent of Meeting. And so they finished dividing the land.” – Joshua 19:51

Just one chapter ago, and one day ago, we read about the Levites finding contentment and their peace in getting no inheritance beyond serving the Lord. For us, the lesson was not about possession or pursuit... instead it was a lesson about heart and perspective. In Chapter 19, however, we are reminded of the peoples calling to move forward and take what the Lord had given them. It’s a lesson to us about the movement forward building on that heart and perspective. As children of God living under the New Covenant we are called to be a sent people, a people of action, not of apathy or neutrality… most certainly not a people in “limbo”.

Matthew Henry put it like this, “After a year or more, Joshua blamed their slackness, and told them how to proceed. God, by his grace, has given us a title to a good land, the heavenly Canaan, but we are slack to take possession of it; we enter not into that rest, as we might by faith, and hope, and holy joy. How long shall it be thus with us? How long shall we thus stand in our own light, and forsake our own mercies for lying vanities? Joshua stirs the Israelites up to take possession of their lots. He is ready to do his part, if they will do theirs. (Jos 18:11-28)

What is our part? Are we taking possession? And better yet, where is our heart in this pursuit?

Joshua 18 “Royal Priesthood”

Joshua 18 – Brandon Hatmaker “Royal Priesthood”
Monday, August 18th, 2008

“The Levites, however, do not get a portion among you, because the priestly service of the LORD is their inheritance.” – Joshua 18:7

When at first I read this in the flesh I think, “Wait a minute, that’s not fair, the Levites should get an inheritance too”. That’s probably because I’m a pastor and I tend to want to fight for the Levites, but if you were to read the entire story, it doesn’t take much effort to realize what an honor it was to the Levites that this was their lot in life.

This inheritance was all they desired. Not only was it enough for them, they knew it was best. Their inheritance was the honor of a life serving the Lord. And it wasn’t about what they accomplished or attained in that service. It was about keeping themselves and a people in right relationship with their God. It was about the journey of living out a covenant between a chosen people and a Holy God.

So the tough questions come: What if the only inheritance we receive is a life of service, would it be enough for us? What if it was never about us? What if we never achieved a position of authority or recognition? What if our good deeds were never exposed? What if the thrill of victory and the joy of accomplishing a task seemed to always avoid us? Would it be enough?

Four weeks after we launched Austin New Church, I was praying (eyes open) as I was driving to our tiny little worship service when God asked me the question, “Brandon, if this is it, are you okay with that?”.

While He certainly caught me off guard, I knew exactly what He meant. If this thing doesn’t grow… or even survive, if you guys spend yourselves (literally) on serving your community and others and you don’t see the type of fruit you are used to and hope for, will you consider it a success? Will it be enough? If all you ever accomplish is what you’ve already seen, are you okay with that?

Honestly, the first thought that came to my mind was, “God if you’re okay with it, I’m okay with it. But I don’t think you’re okay with it”. I really meant that with all my heart. BUT… and this is a big but: I fear that scenario. I know it would be very hard. It would probably be the trial of my life, not only because of my own pride, but because I have always believed God has called us to greater things than we know not lesser. That moment caused some serious emotional and spiritual searching for me. Not because I secretly wanted to experience success for selfish reasons, but because I thought I was beyond this issue. I thought to myself, “God knows my heart… I thought I was really okay… why would he be asking me this?”.

What I’ve come to realize is that this might just be a weekly or even daily question we must ask ourselves. If what we are doing today is all we achieve… if our service to God today was it… would we be okay with it? Would it be enough? And even more important, how does God feel about our heart, our motive, and our pursuits… today? Not what we plan to do tomorrow, but in what we’re doing today?

So let’s take this a step further. I’m a pastor… makes it easy for me to empathize with the Levites. Most of us, however, consider ourselves the warriors, the leaders, the people out in the real world. So our priorities can be different, right? Our pursuits can be from a different place, right? Wrong. Let’s not forget that in Christ we are given the priesthood of the believer. Everything changes under the new covenant through Christ.

“But you are a chosen people, a royal priesthood, a holy nation, a people belonging to God, that you may declare the praises of him who called you out of darkness into his wonderful light. Once you were not a people, but now you are the people of God; once you had not received mercy, but now you have received mercy.” – 1 Peter 2:9-10

The mercy we have received is Jesus. In light of this truth I think we are all asked the questions: What inheritance are we pursuing? Where are our priorities? What is our position in the pursuit… who’s glory are we striving for, ours or Gods? Who’s approval are we fighting for?

This might be a weekly, even daily question, we should all ask ourselves. Paul gives us a good reason to ask this question often in 1 Corinthians when he wrote, “Therefore let him who thinks he stands take heed that he does not fall.” This is a warning, none of us are beyond being deceived or blinded to even our own motives.

We should take heed more often.

Father, I believe the redemptive work you are doing in the world is so much bigger than we can fathom. I believe there is a movement in your Church today that is fresh and new to this generation… I don’t want to miss it. I pray that as you call your people to live as a sent people, that we serve you with the right motive and ambitions. Help us to measure success as you measure success. Lord, that’s a difficult task that we cannot do with our own wisdom, so I ask today for wisdom in understanding the journey, the trials, and the temptations. I know that they simply do not compare to those Christ endured for us. Amen.

Joshua 15 "Important Places"

Joshua 15 – “The importance of Hebron”

Check this out. A good friend of mine from Denver sent this to me this morning on Joshua 15. Just a continued reminder that God has always known what He's doing, is always in control, and has a continued plan for eternity. The details are stunning throughout history. Everything fits prophecy. Everything ultimately points to the cross. Here's what he wrote:

In accordance with the Lord’s command to him, Joshua gave to Caleb son of Jephunnah a portion in Judah – Kirith Arba, that is, Hebron. (Joshua 15:13) I had a hunch that there was more to the giving of Hebron to Caleb than I was originally understanding. It was more than just giving a region to a faithful servant. It turns out that Hebron was hugely important to the Israelites. It contained the Cave of the Patriarchs, where Abraham, Isaac, Rebekah, Jacob, and Leah were buried. Obviously, this was a critical piece of land, and one that you would only trust to the most faithful and capable. I did some additional research on it this morning and include the following for your enjoyment:

Hebron is the second holiest city in Judaism, after Jerusalem. It is called in Arabic eth al Chalil, "The House of the Beloved," because Isaac, the beloved son of Abraham, was born and educated here, and, as appears from Genesis 22:1, resided also here a long time. It is situated in the portion of Judah, 20 English miles south from Jerusalem, in a valley (Gen. 37:14). The mountains which surround it are the highest points of the mountains of Judah, and are 2664 feet above the surface of the Mediterranean Sea. It is a small town, or, more correctly speaking, a very large village, which consists of several divisions, each, so to say, constituting a village by itself. It contains several thousand Arabic inhabitants. On its eastern end is the cave of Machpelach Al Magr, i. e. the cave. It is also called the Fort of David, and is a very handsome and most ancient structure, built of immense stones, and surrounded with strong and high walls. It forms, in a measure, a fortress. Beneath the surface of the earth is the celebrated cave where the patriarchs lie buried. It is covered over with masonry, having a small opening on the top, through which the Mahomedans constantly lower burning lamps, and maintain there a perpetual light. Above this cavern is a mosque, built at a later date. Hebron became one of the principal centers of the Tribe of Judah, and the Judahite King David reigned in the city until the capture of Jerusalem, when the capital of the Kingdom of Israel was moved to that city.

Wow.

Joshua 14 – “Number Two”

Joshua 14 – Brandon Hatmaker “Number Two”
Tuesday, August 12th, 2008

“Then Joshua blessed Caleb son of Jephunneh and gave him Hebron as his inheritance. So Hebron has belonged to Caleb son of Jephunneh the Kenizzite ever since, because he followed the LORD, the God of Israel, wholeheartedly. Then the land had rest from war.” – Joshua 14:13-15

After a 45 year journey, mostly riddled with battle, Caleb was finally given his inheritance. He himself said that at 85 years old that he was, “still as strong today” as the day Moses sent him out. He was willing and capable for more, but he was ready for a home. He asked for it, and it was granted. It was his time.

“Then the land had rest from war.”

That final verse is a great verse. Makes me think of what it feels like when I come home from a long trip. There is nothing quite like walking into your own house, sleeping in your own bed, eating your own food, and watching your children play in familiar places not worried if they’ll break someone else’s rules or worse, their stuff.

This was a huge blessing and reward for Caleb’s season of courage, confidence, and faithfulness. He did everything the Lord asked of him. He did everything Joshua, who was once just a fellow spy, asked of Him. He never complained about not being the number one guy. He just played his role. And when his time came, he was blessed, and his request was granted… it was granted by God's provision, it was promised by Moses, and it was blessed by Joshua.

As a Pastor, I’m humbled by the role I get to play in this journey. But I’m even more humbled by the amazing team of guys God has brought us. From an amazing staff who are also some of my best friends, to a faithful team of lay leaders who have become the same, I’m thankful for their work, their courage, their confidence, and for their faithfulness.

So I’ll write this directly to them as a prayer of blessing:

I pray that each of you find “rest” from war. I pray that you each experience reward for your faithfulness. I pray that your lives are laced with amazing ministry opportunities and are filled with joy, whether it’s at Austin New Church, through Austin New Church, or wherever you may be called. Thank you, not only “that” you serve, but also for “how” you serve.

Joshua 13 – “Inheritance”

Joshua 13 – Brandon Hatmaker “Inheritance”
Monday, August 11th, 2008

“This is the inheritance Moses had given when he was… “ Joshua 13:32

Chapter 13 offers a long list of inheritances. Moses had apportioned but let us not forget… God was the provider. God has accomplished so much through His people. The same goes for today. There are so many amazing Churches and Pastors today, so many amazing ministries and non-profits that are making an impact, so many God centered families and marriages. God is truly at work, it is to His Glory, and we should never forget that it is of His hand, not ours.

Let us also not forget the inheritance we will receive one day as a child of God. Surely it is not by the work of man, but by the redemptive work of Jesus Christ. What a great daily reminder.

Joshua 12 "Remember"

Joshua 12 – Brandon Hatmaker "Remember"
Friday, August 8, 2008

"These are the kings of the land that Joshua and the Israelites conquered on the west side of the Jordan, from Baal Gad in the Valley of Lebanon to Mount Halak, which rises toward Seir…" - Joshua 12:7

Alex Shootman, a VP at Vignette here in Austin, a great friend of mine who also serves on the Board of Directors at Austin New Church wrote the following about Joshua 12. I was encouraged, so I thought I'd share it with you:

"31 and 0, decent record for a wandering people who just crossed the Jordan. There are so few times in the Bible that the Word takes time out to just declare a list, so it must be important. But why? The list seems tedious, but if it was our land, we would read this with some interest – the way you look at the survey of your lot before you close on your house. The list also makes it real, these kings existed and the conquering happened; evidence of God fulfilling a promise to Abraham. The list is a glimpse in the rearview mirror – a declaration of evidence"

"Jumping off a point Brandon made yesterday about circumstances. This struck a chord because I had not ever thought of circumstances as an enemy. When we are in a difficult circumstance it is hard to see the hand of a loving God, but when we look back, we always get the “oh I see” moment. The moment where God’s plan is clear and the difficulties make sense. I need to become better at seeing the truth in the rearview mirror. This truth is not a predictor of the future, but rather it is evidence of His hand. The more evidence I have, the more confident I can be He will not leave me in the present or the future."

I'm encouraged and refreshed by Alex's words. I think the list of the kings are once again "River Stones". A monument to God's faithfulness. Isn't it amazing how quickly we forget what God has done in the past and then doubt, wonder, and fear creeps in? He knows that's our nature. It's why he calls us to remember.

I looked up the word "remember" as a key word on my online bible program. It's used in 233 verses in the NIV. I was expecting them to be about us. But, I was surprised how many times they were about God remembering, not just his people remembering. The Bible is laced with verses of God saying things like "I will remember my covenant with Jacob and my covenant with Isaac and my covenant with Abraham..." Bottom line: God promises to remember his promises. Why? Because He is faithful.

Maybe our lesson today is "faithfulness" as much as it is "remember". Hopefully one just leads to the other.

Joshua 11 “The Enemy”

Joshua 11 – Brandon Hatmaker “The Enemy”
Thursday, August 7th, 2008

“The LORD said to Joshua, "Do not be afraid of them…” – Joshua 11:6

When I read this verse, my mind instantly takes me to the encouragement to take confidence before other people who might oppose us and how easy it is to see opposition in others… even when it’s in our own mind.

What’s difficult, however, is to see opposing circumstances as carrying the same power to impact our lives. Circumstance can be our enemy. While we may naturally take up the tangible battle with a person, the details of a situation can sometime sneak up on us, take us out, create massive fear or concern in our lives, and we rarely if ever identify it as something that God also says, “do not be afraid” about. In turn, we give it so much emotional energy, mental energy, and time that most certainly should be committed to accomplishing something more noteworthy.

There is no circumstance and no situation that the Lord of the universe cannot overcome. There is no calling He will place on our lives and no expectation that He cannot provide for. There is a battle that rages in the Spiritual realm… and our God tells us that although our battle is NOT against flesh and blood… we can take confidence as a child of God.

"Fear not, for I have redeemed you; I have summoned you by name; you are mine.” – Isaiah 43:1

Joshua 10 “Success”

Joshua 10 – Brandon Hatmaker “Success”
Wednesday, August 6th, 2008

“All these kings and their lands Joshua conquered in one campaign, because the LORD, the God of Israel, fought for Israel.” – Joshua 10:42

Chapter 10 outlines a massive movement by the nation of Israel. It’s sole purpose and power came through God. We spend a lot of time talking about following the leading of God and making sure we do things His way instead of ours, it truly is about the journey of obedience and dependency. However, so many times we forget to see the power and success that also accompany following His will. Joshua 10 is an amazing reminder of that power.

Our perspective is so small. We simply do not have the ability to see the full movement of our God and His leading. We cannot understand the full significance of each of our steps. But we can trust that our heavenly father does. His successes are far greater than our successes. His power is far greater than our power. His purpose is far greater than our purposes. The list goes on and on.

So far, as I read the book of Joshua, the pattern for me is this: While we typically measure success in many different ways, there is no tangible success that I alone can foster that can compare to what God is doing and plans to do. I am nothing and my successes are nothing without the leading of my God. God does not need me. I need him… desperately.

Verse 42 says that it was Joshua who conquered all these kings and their lands in one sweeping movement. How did this happen? “Because the Lord… fought for Israel.” Why would He do that? Because, He was their God. Their affections were on Him. There dependency was on Him. Their trust was in Him. Their fear was of Him.

Joshua 9 “Role Player”

Joshua 9 – Brandon Hatmaker “Role Player”
Tuesday, August 5th, 2008

“They answered Joshua, "Your servants were clearly told how the LORD your God had commanded his servant Moses to give you the whole land and to wipe out all its inhabitants from before you. So we feared for our lives because of you, and that is why we did this. We are now in your hands. Do to us whatever seems good and right to you." So Joshua saved them from the Israelites, and they did not kill them. That day he made the Gibeonites woodcutters and water carriers for the community and for the altar of the LORD at the place the LORD would choose. And that is what they are to this day.” – Joshua 9:24-27

There is a lesson to be learned from the Gibeonites. Probably not the lesson that says it’s okay to deceive others in order to save your own butt, but more so that they were willing to “Do whatever seems good and right”… even if it meant to be reduced to servants of the Israelites in order to be spared God’s wrath.

It’s a little too easy to say, “God I’ll do this, but only if it looks like this.” Are we really willing to surrender to whatever role God might have us play? That takes an amazing amount of humility and trust when our focus is on ourselves. But when we recognize the true power of God, it only seems logical.

For some odd reason I think of Kurt Rambis from the Lakers back in the 80’s. He didn’t look so athletic and wasn’t a starter. He didn’t get much glory and didn’t make many headlines. But he was a role player and he’s the proud owner of a few world championship rings. By putting on that uniform, he did something that superstars like Charles Barkley, Allen Iverson, Reggie Miller, Shawn Kemp, John Stockton, Patrick Ewing have not been able to do. He was on the winning team, still is, as an assistant coach. What a life.

Don’t miss it, the Gibeonites weren’t just servants of the Israelite community, they had the honor and privilege to be “woodcutters and water carriers… for the altar of the Lord, at the place the Lord would choose.” They got to serve the God they feared. And He spared their lives. What a life.

Just for fun… check out the link (you might have to cut and paste into your browser)... I miss the ole' days. I don't miss the shorts: www.youtube.com/watch?v=X7r6vXeOfyQ

Joshua 8 “God’s Plunder”

Joshua 8 – Brandon Hatmaker “God’s Plunder”
Monday, August 4th, 2008

“You shall do to Ai and its king as you did to Jericho and its king, except that you may carry off their plunder and livestock for yourselves.” – Joshua 8:2

There is nothing more important than doing things God’s way. It seems like the entire journey for the Israelites was about learning this lesson. I feel like my personal journey has been similar. I have had so many plans, so many selfish thoughts, and by nature… too often the plunder I have sought, was sought to take as mine. But the reality is, whether it’s pride, position, possession or even glory… it is not ours to take.

God gave Joshua specific details of the attack. He gave every step. And as Joshua followed, they experienced the success of the Lord. This time, God even gave them the plunder to keep. The exact thing he withheld the last time. God is clearly showing that He doesn’t withhold for the sake of withholding. He withholds for the sake of learning, trusting, and teaching us to follow His ways.

Father, it’s such an amazing place to be when we are in complete dependence on you. I recognize today that so much of that is out of fear, but I think it’s the good kind of fear. It’s a fear of your righteous judgment for my selfishness. I pray that you do not withhold your grace and peace, but even more so, your favor. Show me the areas in my life that I still make about me. Give me the courage to admit and the strength to let go. Amen.

Joshua 7 “Concealed”

Joshua 7 – Brandon Hatmaker “Concealed”
Friday, August 1st, 2008

“I will not be with you anymore unless you destroy whatever among you is devoted to destruction.” – Joshua 7:12

In the prior chapters, I found it surprising that God’s hand continued to be with the Israelites although they had not been circumcised. Maybe it was because they were obviously willing and eventually did it. Maybe it had something to do with the law verses the heart.

But in chapter 7, we see that God reaches a point in which his anger burns because of blatant disobedience and sin. We also see that because of the sin of one, the entire camp would suffer, and we see the consequence of God removing His hand.

The sin was personal, and as Achan eventually confessed, it was a “concealed” sin. In verse 21 he said, “They are hidden in the ground inside my tent”.

I have a pastor friend who recently prayed over this scripture for his church. He felt that something was happening in which God was not going before them and the Spirit was not leading. He eventually came to the place in which he was wondering if there was an “Achan” in his camp. As he prayed into that question, he found out that he was the Achan.

His sin wasn’t a blatant sin or moral failure, but it was real. It was a “hidden” sin that he did not even see. However, when the Spirit brought it to light, it was obvious. He realized that the pattern of “concealment” was rampant in his life. He confessed to his church that he had placed the church in front of his family for years, he confessed that although he always acted like he had everything together, that he was not being honest and had hidden insecurities and issues, in his own life he began to admit shortfalls in how he led staff with the wrong motives, he even admitted that he enjoyed a glass of wine every now and then (doctors orders after a heart attack) yet if a church member was to come over, he would hide it. Not all of these were a part of the public confession, but non-the-less they were confessed before God and shared with the appropriate audience.

He said it was the most freeing moment he’s experienced… I think he said, ever. I’m sure there are moments in which we should confess our sins publicly. There are moments we should confess our sins to one another (James 5:16). And in every moment we should be open and honest in confession with our God… Verse 23 said that, “They took the things from the tent, brought them to Joshua and all the Israelites and spread them out before the LORD.”

I’m reminded the importance of “spreading” things out before the Lord. It’s not as if these things are hidden from God, it’s only in our minds. Since it is often about “how” we do things on our journey, even in confession, I wonder if the calling to lay things out before the Lord is for us. Yet there is so much concealed in our lives, emotionally, relationally, spiritually, and physically.

As pastors, as leaders, and as followers of faith we have the opportunity to be a part of something amazing… the Kingdom of Heaven. More than anything I hope my personal pursuits of faith are through God’s leading not my own ability or wisdom. Although God’s divine plan will be realized, we are reminded in Chapter 7, there are things that can happen in which God will choose to remove his hand from us personally. For Joshua and Achan, disobedience followed by concealment was one of them.

So while yesterday (chapter 6) I wrote about “fear”, today I feel it. I believe it to be a healthy, reverent, appropriate fear of God. I’m searching a bit deeper today. I’m begging more earnestly for forgiveness today. I’m asking God to go before us today more than yesterday. I pray for the wisdom and will to do the same tomorrow and the next day.