Category Archives: Peace

Joshua’s Parting Challenge: Choose Whom You Will Serve! (Joshua 24)

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Click on this link for translations of today’s devotion.

Scripture reading – Joshua 24

Our study of the Book of Joshua concludes with today’s Scripture reading. Beginning with the Book of Exodus, our devotions have followed Israel’s forty-year journey through the wilderness. Then, under Joshua’s leadership, we observed the record of Israel’s battles with the Canaanites who inhabited the land the LORD promised Abraham and his heirs (Genesis 12:1).

The Final Call (Joshua 24:1)

With the land conquered and divided among the tribes, Joshua gathered the children of Israel at Shechem (24:1) for a final challenge. Why Shechem? Shechem was where Abraham received the LORD’s promise that his lineage would inherit the land (Genesis 12:6-7).

The Final Challenge (Joshua 24:2-14)

In his final address and challenge to the people, Joshua rehearsed how the LORD had chosen Abraham (24:2-4), delivered Israel out of Egypt (24:5-7), and guided them through the wilderness (24:7-10). Next, he reminded the congregation that God had given them the land as He promised (24:11-13). Finally, he challenged them to revere and serve the LORD (24:14-28).

The Final Charge (Joshua 24:15)

Showing his passion for serving the LORD had not diminished in his old age, Joshua exhorted the nation: “If it seem evil unto you to serve the Lord, choose you this day whom ye will serve; whether the gods which your fathers served that were on the other side of the flood, or the gods of the Amorites, in whose land ye dwell: but as for me and my house, we will serve the Lord” (24:15).

The Covenant Renewed (Joshua 24:16-25)

With one voice, Israel renewed its covenant with the LORD and said, “We will serve the LORD… The Lord our God will we serve, and his voice will we obey.” (24:21, 24).

The Covenant Memorialized (Joshua 24:26-27) 

Joshua then memorialized the nation’s covenant with the LORD “and took a great stone, and set it up there under an oak [and said to the people]…Behold, this stone shall be a witness [a memorial; a testament] unto us; for it hath heard all the words of the Lord which he spake unto us: it shall be therefore a witness unto you, lest ye deny your God” (24:26-27).

The Conclusion (Joshua 24:28-33)

Three burials conclude our study of the Book of Joshua. First, having inscribed the people’s vow in stone, they then departed. Then, “after these things…Joshua the son of Nun, the servant of the Lord, died, being an hundred and ten years old. 30And they buried him in the border of his inheritance in Timnath-serah, which is in Mount Ephraim” (24:29-30). So Joshua, the last of his generation to depart Egypt, was dead.

A second burial fulfilled Joseph’s dying request (Genesis 50:25), and his bones were buried on the land purchased by his father Jacob (24:32).  Lastly, Eleazar, the high priest, the son of Aaron, died and was buried (24:33).

Closing thoughts:

Joshua’s challenge to Israel and his confession should stir our hearts to follow his example (24:15). As it was with Joshua, so it is with every believer. We must individually decide whether or not we will serve the LORD with our whole heart (24:14-24).

Choose this day whom you will serve!

Questions to ponder:

  • Why did Joshua gather “all the tribes of Israel” and rehearse the nation’s history and the providences of God? (Joshua 24:1-13)
  • After reflecting on all the LORD had done for Israel, how did Joshua challenge the people? (Joshua 24:14-15)
  • What did Joshua challenge the people to do if they sincerely desired to worship and serve the LORD? (Joshua 24:22-23)
  • How did Joshua memorialize Israel’s vow to the LORD? (Joshua 24:25-27)

Copyright © 2023 – Travis D. Smith

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IS THE LORD ON YOUR SIDE? (Joshua 9; Joshua 10)

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Scripture reading – Joshua 9-10

Joshua 9 – The Enemy, of My Enemy, Is My Friend

The Deception of the Gibeonites (Joshua 9:1-13)

The defeat and destruction of both Jericho and Ai moved other kings in Canaan to set aside their rivalries and form confederacies to challenge Israel’s invasion of the land (9:1). And so, “they gathered themselves together, to fight with Joshua and with Israel, with one accord” (9:2).

One city-state, Gibeon, believed all they had heard regarding Israel and “what Joshua had done unto Jericho and to Ai” (9:3). Joshua 10 reveals that Gibeon was “one of the royal cities, because it was greater than Ai, and all the men thereof were mighty” (10:2).

Believing it was inevitable that Israel would attack Gibeon in the manner of Jericho and Ai, the Gibeonites determined to pursue peace with Israel (9:4). Sending ambassadors, by craft and deceit, the men of Gibeon made Joshua and the elders believe they had traveled a great distance, and from a far country (9:5-13).

The Discovery of the Gibeonites’ Dishonesty (Joshua 9:14-18)

Assessing the old shoes and clothes worn by the men of Gibeon and the moldy bread and patched wineskins, the leaders of Israel believed the Gibeonites were from a far country. Joshua and Israel then committed a grave error: They failed to seek the “counsel at the mouth of the LORD” (9:14).

“Joshua made peace with [the Gibeonites], and made a league with them, to let them live: and the princes of the congregation sware [an oath] unto them” (9:15). Three days passed when Joshua received the news that the Gibeonites had deceived him and the leaders of Israel. They learned the cities of Gibeon were no more than a three-day journey from their encampment (9:16-17). The congregation began murmuring against Joshua and their leaders, knowing they had allied with an enemy (9:18).

The Covenant with Gibeon (Joshua 9:19-27)

Although the Gibeonites had come under pretenses, the leaders of Israel reasoned with the people that they could not break their oath (9:19-20). So, a compromise was pursued, and it was determined that the Gibeonites would assume the lowest positions of servitude and become woodcutters and water carriers (9:21-27).

Joshua 10 – The Day the Sun Stood Still

The Confederacy with Gibeon (Joshua 10:1-7)

Because Gibeon was a great city and one whose men were mighty (10:2), the Gibeonites’ treaty with Israel became a cause of great concern for their neighbors (10:1). Adon-zedek, king of Jerusalem, the city closest to Gibeon, allied with five Amorite kings (10:3), and “encamped before Gibeon, and made war against it” (10:4-5). As a result, the men of Gibeon appealed to Joshua and Israel to fulfill their treaty and come to their defense (10:6-7).

The Battle and Defeat of the Amorites (Joshua 10:8-14)

With the LORD’s assurance that He would be with him, Joshua and his army marched through the night (10:8-9) and attacked the kings encamped against Gibeon. Then the LORD sent confusion among the Amorites, and as they fled, He “cast down great [hail] stones from heaven…[and] they were more which died with hailstones than they whom the children of Israel slew with the sword” (10:10-11).

Joshua, desiring to utterly destroy the Amorites, called upon the LORD, “and he said in the sight of Israel, Sun, stand thou still upon Gibeon; And thou, Moon, in the valley of Ajalon. 13And the sun stood still, and the moon stayed…And hasted not to go down about a whole day” (10:12-13a).

Joshua and Israel’s Victory over the Amorites (Joshua 10:15-43)

What a great day it was, and one Israel forever remembered. Indeed, “there was no day like that before it or after it, that the Lord hearkened unto the voice of a man: for the Lord fought for Israel” (10:14). God blessed Joshua, and the five Amorite kings were captured, humiliated, and put to death. Their bodies were hung upon five trees until that evening (10:15-27).

Closing thoughts:

We read a summary of Israel’s victorious southern campaign, and it concludes with this testimony:

“All these kings and their land did Joshua take at one time, because the Lord God of Israel fought for Israel” (10:42).

Questions to consider:

1) How did the Gibeonites deceive Joshua? (Joshua 9:4-13)

2) What did Joshua and the leaders of Israel fail to do? (Joshua 9:14)

3) What had the Gibeonites heard concerning Moses and Israel? (Joshua 9:24)

4) What did the LORD promise Joshua concerning the kings of the Amorites? (Joshua 10:8)

5) What was the miracle in Joshua 10:12-13?

Copyright © 2023 – Travis D. Smith

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“May the LORD Bless You, and Keep You” (Numbers 6; Numbers 7)

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Scripture reading – Numbers 6-7

Numbers 6 – The Nazarite Vow and the Aaronic Priestly Blessing

The law of the Nazarite, a voluntary vow, was instituted in Numbers 6. Considered a vow of consecration, a man or woman could “vow a vow of a Nazarite” (6:2), and it was a vow of abstinence and separation unto the LORD.

A Nazarite vow consisted of three personal disavowals.

Abstaining from wine and strong drink (6:3-4) was the first. The second, as an outward sign of devotion, a Nazarite was not to cut his hair for the time of the vow (6:5). Thirdly, Nazarites were forbidden to touch a dead body, even that of a loved one (6:6-7). Finally, should one fail to keep the Nazarite vow and become unclean, there were prescribed steps for remediation and purification, including sacrifices to be offered to the LORD (6:9-12).

When the days of the Nazarites were fulfilled, they were to bring offerings to the Tabernacle before the LORD as a release from their vows (6:13). A burnt offering, sin offering, peace offering, meat or meal offering, and a drink offering were required (6:13-17). After offering sacrifices to be released from the vow, the head was to be shaved (6:19), a wave offering of thanksgiving given (6:20), and the Nazarite was then allowed to drink wine (6:20). (The matter of drinking wine is one I will take up in the future; however, be assured the wine mentioned here was not the distilled, strong drink of our day.)

The Priestly Prayer for God’s People (6:24-27)

Numbers 6 concludes with one of the most beautiful prayers and blessings in the Scriptures. The Aaronic prayer expresses the heart of the LORD for His people and represents the heart of a spiritual shepherd. I will allow the beauty of the prayer to speak for itself without commentary:

 “The Lord bless thee, and keep [watch, guard] thee: 25The Lord make his face shine [illuminate] upon thee, and be gracious unto thee: 26The Lord lift up his countenance upon thee, and give thee peace. 27And they shall put my name upon the children of Israel; and I will bless them” (Numbers 6:24-27).

Numbers 7 – The Dedication of the Tabernacle, the Altar, the Vessels, and Instruments Used in the Offerings

After much planning and following the detailed guidelines set forth by the LORD, the Tabernacle was set up, anointed, and sanctified (7:1). The altar, vessels, and instruments to be used for offerings were consecrated to the LORD. Then, the princes of the Twelve Tribes and the heads of households “brought their offering before the Lord, six covered wagons, and twelve oxen; a wagon for two of the princes, and for each one an ox: and they brought them before the tabernacle” (7:3).

What purpose did the wagons and oxen serve?

They were presented for the “service” (7:5) and ministry of the Tabernacle and employed by the Levites when transporting the Tabernacle and its furnishings during Israel’s sojourn (7:4-10). The Gershonites were allotted two wagons and four oxen, “according to their service” (7:7). The ministry of the Gershonites was the care of the draperies, curtains, and coverings of the Tabernacle (4:24-28).

The Merarites were assigned four wagons and eight oxen, “according unto their service” (7:8). They required more wagons and oxen because they were charged with the greater weight (i.e., the boards and pillars that made up the frame of the Tabernacle, 4:31-32).

The Kohathites were not given wagons or oxen “because the service of the sanctuary belonging unto them was that they should bear upon their shoulders” (7:9). The Kohathites were responsible for transporting the Ark, the table, the lampstand, and the altar (4:5-20). Those objects, central to Israel’s worship and sacrifices, were to be carried upon the shoulders of the Kohathites with staves or rods.

Closing thoughts:

Numbers 7 concluded with the record of the offerings and sacrifices that each tribe was to bring on its assigned day as the Tabernacle and its vessels were dedicated (7:10-88). You will notice that the offerings brought by each of the tribes were identical. Why the repetition? I believe the twelve days of dedication, and the naming of the sacrifices that were brought, added to the solemnity of the dedication and gave each tribe its sense of standing with the LORD.

With the sum of the offerings accounted (7:84-88), Moses, though not a priest,  was given an extraordinary audience with the LORD in His sanctuary (7:89). There, Moses heard the voice of the LORD “speaking unto him from off the mercy seat that was upon the ark of testimony, from between the two cherubims: and he spake unto him” (7:89).

I conclude with my prayer for each of you reading today’s devotion.

Numbers 6:24-26 – “The LORD bless thee, and keep thee: 25  The LORD make his face shine upon thee, and be gracious unto thee: 26  The LORD lift up his countenance upon thee, and give thee peace [shalom].”

Questions to consider:

1) From what was a man or a woman to abstain when vowing the vow of a Nazarite? (Numbers 6:3-8)

2) How were Aaron and his sons to bless the people? (Numbers 6:24-26).

3) How did Moses dedicate the Tabernacle and vessels to the LORD? (Numbers 7:1)

4) Who participated in the dedication of the Tabernacle, and what did they offer to the LORD? (Numbers 7:2-3)

Copyright © 2023 – Travis D. Smith

* You can subscribe to the Heart of a Shepherd daily devotionals and have them sent directly to your email address. Please enter your email address in the box to the right (if using a computer) or at the bottom (if using a cell phone). You may also email your request to HeartofAShepherdInc@gmail.com

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Getting Back to Bethel, the House of God (Genesis 35-36)

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Scripture reading – Genesis 35-36

Now, the LORD had commanded Jacob to return to Canaan after an absence of 20 years (Genesis 33), so when Esau received news that his twin brother, Jacob, was returning home, he set out to meet him and was accompanied by “four hundred men” (33:1a). Yet, instead of exacting revenge for his brother’s egregious past, Esau gave Jacob a loving embrace, and together they wept for joy. Although he was received in peace by his brother, Jacob refused his invitation to enter the land and traveled instead to Succoth. There he lived among the heathen of the land (33:17), a fateful decision that later brought great sorrow upon his household (34:1-2, 13-29).

Genesis 35 – Journey to Bethel

Genesis 35 opened with the LORD commanding Jacob to go up to Bethel (“the house of God”) and fulfill the promise he made to the LORD two decades prior (28:19-22). Knowing he and his family were returning to the place where the LORD had first appeared to him, Jacob commanded his family to make ready to be in the presence of the LORD.

I find Jacob’s preparation instructive for believers who desire to worship and walk in the ways of the LORD. Consider with me three preparatory steps Jacob took as he prepared his household for Bethel, “the house of God” (Genesis 35:2-4).

First, Jacob commanded his household to “put away [their] strange gods” (35:2b).

How did “strange gods” come to be with Jacob’s family? There are several reasons: Remember Laban’s father, Bethuel, was the son of Nahor, Abraham’s older brother (Genesis 11). Furthermore, Abraham and Nahor’s father was Terah, who made, sold, and worshipped idols. As a result, idol possession and worship would have been an integrated part of Laban’s family history. In addition, and unfortunately, Jacob was unaware that his wife Rachel had taken her father’s idols and hidden them in her belongings. Finally, of course, there was also a possibility that the people taken captive after Simeon and Levi killed the men of Shalem (33:18) had brought along their gods and idols (34:28-29).

The second step in preparing to go to Bethel was to “be clean” (35:2c).

Cleanliness for God’s people affected every part of their life.  There could be no spiritual cleanliness without physical cleanliness (i.e., eat clean, and have a pure heart so that what comes out of the mouth is as clean as what goes into the mouth). So Jacob commanded his people to put their lives and households in order, purify themselves and be holy, as God had spoken.

Finally, the people were to “change [their] garments” (35:2d).

They were to replace the old robes that reminded them of their past and put on new garments. Such was Paul’s challenge to believers when he observed, “if any man be in Christ, he is a new creature: old things are passed away; behold, all things are become new” (2 Corinthians 5:17).

When Jacob arrived at Bethel, he built an altar, led his family to worship the LORD, and offered sacrifices (35:6-7). 

Sadly, Jacob’s return to Bethel was not without its sorrows, for the deaths of three loved ones marked the occasion. Deborah, the elderly nurse of his mother Rebekah, and perhaps one who assisted with rearing Jacob, was the first to die (35:8). Jacob honored that beloved servant by burying her under an oak tree and calling the name of the place “Allonbachuth,” “oak of weeping” (35:8).

Rachel, Jacob’s beloved wife and the mother of Joseph, died giving birth to Benjamin, his twelfth son (35:16-18).  Adding further to his sorrows was the death of his father Isaac, the longest-living patriarch, who died “being old and full of days” when he was 180 years old (35:28-29). As is sometimes the case, Isaac’s death brought his sons, Jacob and Esau, together so that they might honor and bury their father (35:29).

Genesis 36 – Esau’s Lineage

Genesis 36 records the births of Esau’s five sons, born of three wives (36:1-5). We also read the birth record of Esau’s grandsons. Following their father Isaac’s death (35:29), Esau accepted that the birthright and inheritance of Canaan belonged to Jacob. Soon after, he moved his family to Mount Seir in Edom (36:6-8). Genesis 36 gives no more of Esau’s history; however, the title “Duke” was given to his grandsons (36:15-19). As was prophesied of Esau, his lineage became “Dukes,” commanders of men and soldiers who lived by the sword (27:40).

The Edomites were descendants of Esau and will play a significant role in our study of the Twelve Tribes of Israel.

Copyright © 2023 – Travis D. Smith

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THE END: “Job Died Old, and Full of Days” (Job 42)

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Scripture reading – Job 42

Job had remained silent since he confessed, “I am vile” (40:4). Being reminded of the majesty of God, he “answered the Lord, and said, 2I know that thou canst do every thing, And that no thought can be withholden from thee” (42:1-2). He had complained, but now he resigned himself to God’s sovereignty. He acknowledged he had spoken in ignorance (42:3), and accepted the LORD was not obligated to answer his questions.

In a wonderful expression of humility, Job confessed, “5I have heard of thee by the hearing of the ear: But now mine eye seeth thee” (42:5). Though dreadful to have experienced the afflictions, the trials, troubles, and sorrows moved Job from a theoretical knowledge of God (“hearing of the ear”), to a personal and practical familiarity (“now mine eye seeth thee”) of his God and Creator. Job confessed, “6Wherefore I abhor myself, and repent in dust and ashes” (42:6).

God Rewards Faithfulness (Job 42:7-10)

Having accepted Job’s penitence, the LORD turned His focus to his foolish “friends” (42:7-9). “Eliphaz the Temanite” had been the first to challenge Job, and “the Lord said to [him], My wrath is kindled against thee, and against thy two friends: for ye have not spoken of me the thing that is right, as my servant Job hath” (42:7).

Then, God commanded Eliphaz and his peers saying, “take unto you now seven bullocks and seven rams, and go to my servant Job, and offer up for yourselves a burnt offering” (42:8a). The man whom they scorned, now served God as their priest, and the LORD assured Job’s friends, “My servant Job shall pray for you: for him will I accept: lest I deal with you after your folly, in that ye have not spoken of me the thing which is right, like my servant Job” (42:8).

What an astonishing turn of events! Job had been the object of his friends’ scorn and judgments. Their unkindness, and false arguments had so provoked the LORD, He commanded them to humble themselves, and appeal to Job to intercede for them.

Evidencing the grace of a humble, godly man, Job “prayed for his friends,” and the LORD rewarded him with “twice as much as he had before” (42:10). 

Closing Thoughts (42:11-17) – We have studied 42 chapters in the life of Job. With the exception of his wife (who suggested he curse God and die), and four “friends” who proposed to be counselors but became critics, Job’s acquaintances have been strangely absent. With the hard times past, and Job enjoying God’s blessings and financial prosperity, we read:

“Then came there unto him [Job] all his brethren [kindred], and all his sisters, and all they that had been of his acquaintance [i.e. friends and neighbors] before [before Job’s trials]” (42:11). I ask, where were those “brethren” and “sisters” when he lost everything?  Where were his acquaintances when he suffered the loss of his sons and daughters, servants, home, possessions, and health?  Why did they wait until Job had been vindicated to empathize with him? Why bring Job “a piece of money” and gold earrings, when he had need of nothing? (42:12-15)

As we conclude our study of the life of Job, we can learn many lessons from this man who lived centuries before us. Though he had suffered much, God prospered Job, and he “died, being old and full [satisfied] of days” (Job 42:10, 17). When he humbled himself before God, he was restored to His favor, and died very old, and content with his life (42:17).

Is that not what we all want? To not only live a long life, but be content, and satisfied when we draw our last breath!

Copyright © 2023 – Travis D. Smith

* You can become a regular subscriber of the Heart of a Shepherd daily devotionals, and have them sent directly to your email address. Please enter your email address in the box to the right (if using a computer) or at the bottom (if using a cell phone). You may also email your request to HeartofAShepherdInc@gmail.com

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Remember the Good Old Days? (Job 29)

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Scripture reading – Job 29

Job’s answer to Bildad’s accusations (Job 25) is continued in today’s Scripture reading. Unable to find reprieve from his sorrows, and bearing the disappointment of friends who assailed him, Job reflected on what we might label, “the good old days.” He remembered better days, and happier times.

Job 29

Job’s Complaint (29:1-6)

Having lost everything, the sting of feeling abandoned by God pierced Job’s soul day and night. He was grieved by friends who alleged he must be guilty of some wickedness. He felt God was turned against him, and bemoaned that his dreadful state had given cause for others to ridicule and scorn him.

Job then remembered the security and communion he once enjoyed with his Creator (29:2-6). He said, “Oh that I were as in months past, As in the days when God preserved me [watched over him]” (29:2). He had lived what some call in our day, “the charmed life.” As a young man, he enjoyed the light of God’s favor (29:3). Comforted by the “secret of God” (His friendship and fellowship, 29:4), and the presence of his children (29:5), Job’s life had overflowed with plenty (29:6).

Job’s Prominence in Former Days (29:7-17)

There had been a day when he was esteemed in all quarters of his realm (29:7-17). He was numbered above the elders and judges of the city (29:7). When he passed in the streets, young men shied from him, and aged men rose in his presence out of respect (29:8). When he spoke, men listened and none questioned his wisdom (29:9-11). Contrary to the charges of his friends, Job had been beloved for his charity and compassion for the less fortunate (29:12-13).

Job’s Reputation (29:14-17)

He was hailed for his character and good deeds, and distinguished as a righteous judge (29:14). His charity for the less fortunate was known among his neighbors, for he served as eyes for the blind, and feet for those unable to walk (29:15). To the needy, he had been a father (29:16), and a foe of the wicked when men sought justice (29:17).

Job’s Delusion (29:18-23)

Like some in our day, Job had believed his prosperity would last forever. He supposed God would favor him for his righteous deeds, for he reasoned the days of the righteous are multiplied (29:18-19). He relished the approval of his peers, and they valued his counsel (29:20-21). When he spoke, lesser men were silent. To those who sought his counsel, his words were like dry soil that opens its “mouth wide” for spring showers (29:22-23).

Closing thoughts (29:24-25) 

For Job, times had changed, and he was left with only memories of better days. He remembered when he was much-loved, and all men sought his company (29:24-25). He had not been proud, or haughty as he was accused (29:24). Though he had been chief and sovereign in his realm, he was a comfort to those overcome with sorrows.

Friend, the day may come when you will be embroiled in trials and troubles. When sorrows come, remember God’s grace and favor is the only solace in your darkest hour. I close with a promise that has sustained believers down through the centuries:

2 Corinthians 1:3–4 – “3Blessed be God, even the Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Father of mercies, and the God of all comfort; 4Who comforteth us in all our tribulation, that we may be able to comfort them which are in any trouble, by the comfort wherewith we ourselves are comforted of God.”

Copyright © 2023 – Travis D. Smith

* You can become a regular subscriber of the Heart of a Shepherd daily devotionals, and have them sent directly to your email address. Please enter your email address in the box to the right (if using a computer) or at the bottom (if using a cell phone). You may also email your request to HeartofAShepherdInc@gmail.com

Heart of A Shepherd Inc is recognized by the Internal Revenue Service as a 501c3, and is a public charitable organization.

Mailing Address:
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You can email HeartofAShepherdInc@gmail.com for more information on this daily devotional ministry.

Keep Hope Alive: God Knows You! (Job 22; Job 23)

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Scripture reading – Job 22; Job 23

Continuing our two-year chronological study of the Scriptures, we are in the midst of the Book of Job. What a powerful book and reminder that no one is spared the troubles and trials of this earthly life. Job served as a memorable example of a spiritual man who faced not only the hardships of catastrophic losses, but the erroneous, harsh judgments of some who purported to be his friends.

Yet, we should remember Job was not aware his afflictions were a consequence, not of God’s judgment, but His confidence there was “none like him in the earth, a perfect and an upright man, one that feareth God, and escheweth evil” (1:8). The LORD gave Satan liberty to assail Job, and spared only the man’s life, from that evil one’s assault. In spite of his sorrows, Job’s faith did not falter, even as the evil insinuations of his friends increased.

After listening to Job maintain his innocence, and refute the allegations that he had committed some sin that warranted God’s judgment (Job 21), Eliphaz, obviously offended, spoke up.

Job 22 – Eliphaz’s Rebuke of Job

Eliphaz the Temanite disputed Job for his third and final time (his first two challenges were recorded in Job 4-5, and Job 15). Though claiming to be Job’s friend, Eliphaz accused him of supposing he was righteous, and God was obligated to him (22:1-4).

Impatient with Job’s pleas of innocence, Eliphaz unleashed a torrent of accusations against the man whom God said, “there is none like him in the earth, a perfect and an upright man” (1:8). He alleged Job had exploited the poor (22:6), refused water to the thirsty, and denied bread to the hungry (22:7). He suggested he had taken advantage of the most vulnerable, sent widows away wanting (22:9a), and crushed orphans (22:9b). Eliphaz dared suggest Job thought God must be blind to his wicked ways, and warned all the troubles that had befallen Job was God’s punishment (22:12-14).

Eliphaz’s diatribe (22:15-30) against Job’s character continued through the balance of Job 22, as he recapped for Job concerning the wicked, and God’s judgment (22:15). Understanding the Book of Job is believed to be the most ancient of the books of the Bible, we are not surprised to find the worldwide flood still fresh in the minds of the men of Job’s day (22:16). Eliphaz reminded Job how the wicked were destroyed in the flood, for they had rejected the LORD (22:17). Yet, men in Noah’s day, as in our day, enjoyed God’s common grace, and their houses were “filled…with good things” (22:18).

Then, Eliphaz proved the callous, heartless man he was and boasted the righteous rejoice when the wicked are afflicted (22:19), and the righteous are “not cut down” (22:20). Once again, the implication was only the wicked suffer in the manner Job was afflicted, and called upon Job to repent and “return to the Almighty” (22:21-23). Perhaps the first to preach a “prosperity gospel,” Eliphaz promised God would prosper Job (22:26), and answer his prayers if he confessed his sin and repented (22:27-30).

Job 23 – Job’s Appeal for God to Hear His Plea

Job’s reply to Eliphaz’s harsh inferences was recorded in Job 23 and Job 24; however, today’s devotional will conclude focusing solely on Job 23.

Once again, Job employed the scene of a heavenly courtroom, and God being his judge and he the victim advocating for compassion and understanding (23:1-2). Job complained it seemed God was distant, and were he to find Him, he would come to His throne and petition the LORD to hear his appeal (23:3-4). Knowing the LORD to be just, Job confessed, “I would know the words which He would answer me, And understand what He would say unto me” (23:5). He believed God would not only hear his cause, but would favor him in His judgment (23:6-7). Job complained, he searched everywhere for the LORD, but felt he was abandoned by Him (if only he had known, God was ever watching and attentive to him (23:8-9).

Closing thoughts (23:10-17) – Our devotion concludes with Job giving us a wonderful truth regarding God’s omniscience, mercy, and providences. Job 23:10 presents us with one of the great statements of faith in God’s providences: “He knoweth the way that I take: When he hath tried me, I shall come forth as gold” (23:10).

Though his friends misjudged him, Job was comforted knowing the LORD knew his ways and motives (23:11-12). Though men are given to urges, Job knew the LORD was immutable, and not given to whims. Our God is of “one mind” and does as He pleases, and His plan will be accomplished in our lives (23:13-14).

Job was confident, regardless the accusations brought against him by others, he was sure God knew him to be a man of integrity. While friends slandered and misjudged him, he believed God’s judgment was righteous and perfect.

Take comfort and trust in God: The LORD is not given to whims, for “He is one mind…and what His soul desireth, even that He doeth” (23:13).

Copyright © 2023 – Travis D. Smith

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The Tragic Consequences of Generational Sins (Job 20; Job 21)

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Scripture reading – Job 20; Job 21

Our study of the trials and troubles of Job continues with today’s Scripture reading (Job 20-21). Admittedly, the text is dark, but the insights we gain from our study are illuminating. The chapters before us are lengthy, and at best, time and space permit only a brief commentary. As you read chapter 20, remember Zophar (the third of Job’s friends) is coming from an earthly, human vantage. His purpose was not to impart spiritual wisdom, but to assert that Job’s afflictions were the reward of the wicked.

Job 20

Job 20 is the record of the second and final response of Zophar the Naamathite (his first speech was recorded in Job 11). Zophar was offended by Job’s admonition in the closing verses of chapter 19. Job had maintained his innocence, and warned his “friends” would face God’s wrath for their harsh judgments (19:28-29). Zophar’s rebuke came swift and furious (20:1-3).

Job 20:4-29 – The Fate of the Wicked

Like his friends, Zophar inferred Job’s afflictions were to be expected by those who are wicked. His contentions revealed three erroneous opinions concerning the state and reward of the wicked.

First error: The wicked always come to destruction. (20:4-11)

Zophar suggested the rejoicing of the wicked is brief (20:4), the honors bestowed on them perishes with them, and they are soon forgotten (20:5-8). Neither of those statements are necessarily true. In fact, the wicked often live out their lives enjoying ill acquired wealth, and their funerals and tombs are often grand spectacles to behold.

Second error: The wicked do not prosper. (20:12-23)

Continuing his erroneous observations, Zophar suggested the prosperity of the wicked is brief (20:12), inevitably bites like a poisonous viper (20:13-16), and he dies in want.

The error in Zophar’s observations is evident when we remember the LORD’s parable of a rich fool (Luke 12:16-21). Beguiled with the pleasures of his riches, the rich man ordered his barns be torn down to build greater barns, and said to his soul, “Soul, thou hast much goods laid up for many years; take thine ease, eat, drink, and be merry” (Luke 12:19). Rather than die in want, the rich fool died as he lived, enjoying his wealth until he heard in eternity that he was the poorest of men: “20But God said unto him, Thou fool, this night thy soul shall be required of thee: then whose shall those things be, which thou hast provided? 21So is he that layeth up treasure for himself, and is not rich toward God” (Luke 12:20–21).

Third error: Only the wicked suffer devastating sorrows, and catastrophic losses. (20:24-29)

Zophar maintained the wicked are struck down (20:24-25), and all he has is destroyed (20:26).  He declared the wicked feels everything is against him, until his riches are consumed by God’s wrath (20:27-28). (While it may be argued how the wicked often suffer loss; I suggest it is more often true they are rewarded by the system of this fallen world, and hailed for their ill-gotten gains, John 15:19a).

Of course, the implication of Zophar’s argument was that Job’s sorrows were a wicked man’s afflictions, and such is the lot or “heritage” God has “appointed” for the wicked (20:29).

Job 21 – Rather than Suffer, the Wicked Prosper

Job 21 recorded Job’s response to Zophar’s fallacies. He demanded his friends be silent that he might speak, and challenged them, sarcastically, after he had spoken, “mock on” (21:1-2). Job confessed his struggle was with God, and not with men (21:3-6).

Contrary to Zophar’s assertions, he observed the wicked and their children often live long lives, and enjoy prosperity (21:7-13). He contended the riches of the wicked cause their hearts to be calloused, and “they say unto God, Depart from us; For we desire not the knowledge of thy ways. 15What is the Almighty, that we should serve him? And what profit should we have, if we pray unto him?” (21:14-15) The wicked fail to acknowledge they deserve nothing. Indeed,  all they have is a testimony of God’s grace and longsuffering, and the prosperity of the wicked moves them to reject God (21:16).

Closing thoughts (21:17-34) – Warning: Do not assume the wicked go unpunished.

The consequences of sin are inevitable, and the wicked are “as stubble before the wind, And as chaff that the storm carrieth away. 19God layeth up his [the wicked’s] iniquity for his children: He rewardeth him, and he shall know it” (21:18-19).

Generational Sins: Children are not punished for the sins of their parents; however, they often suffer the influence of their sins (Jeremiah 31:29-30; Deuteronomy 24:16). Three times the Law stated: “The Lord is longsuffering, and of great mercy, forgiving iniquity and transgression, and by no means clearing the guilty, visiting the iniquity of the fathers upon the children unto the third and fourth generation” (Numbers 14:18; Exodus 20:5; Deuteronomy 5:9).

Warning: The consequences of your sins may be borne by your children.

Copyright © 2023 – Travis D. Smith

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“Overcoming Bitterness: I Know that My Redeemer Liveth” (Job 19)

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Scripture reading – Job 19

The sad drama between Job and his friends continued in Job 19, as he responded to the callous, unloving reproofs of Bildad the Shuhite (Job 18). Though Job might have anticipated his friends’ arrival would bring some comfort and pity, he soon realized they had come with one opinion – that Job’s afflictions were characteristic of the troubles that befall wicked men.

With that fabricated premise, Bildad assailed Job for being long-winded in his protests (18:2), and too proud to receive counsel (18:3). According to his estimation, the wicked have a hard life, characterized by calamity (18:5-18), and go to their graves with none remembering them (18:16-20). The implication was that Job’s troubles were such as should be expected of the wicked (18:21).

Job 19

An old English adage reads, “Sticks and stones may break my bones, but words will never hurt me!” Alas, life experiences teach us that sticks can leave scars, and stones may indeed break bones; but eventually the body will mend and heal. However, the effect of cutting words from a loved one, or friend, sometimes result in sorrows that follow us to the grave. Such is the protest we read from Job in chapter 19.

Job’s Complaint Against His Friends (Job 19:1-5)

Job answered the scorn of his friends, and challenged them, saying, “How long will ye vex my soul, And break me in pieces with words?” (19:2) The harsh judgments of his friends had left Job wounded and despairing of life. He protested, they had treated him reproachfully, and should be ashamed of how they humiliated him while in the throes of sorrows (19:3). Though wronged by groundless judgments, Job fell into the well-worn rut commonly found among the embittered: He kept a tally of the wrongs committed against him. Job declared, “These ten times have ye reproached me” (19:3). His heart was turned from the LORD, to those who wronged and accused him. Frustrated by meddling, Job suggested if he was wrong, let it be his business, and his alone (19:4).

“Not Fair!” – Job’s Complaint Against God (19:6-12)

Job then raised a complaint against the LORD, for he believed he was unfairly entangled with sorrows exceeding his failures (19:6). He cried to the LORD, but it seemed heaven was silent (19:7). He felt entrapped (19:8), humiliated (19:9), and his world destroyed (19:10). He complained, it seemed the LORD had become his enemy, and his life under siege (19:11-12).

A Crisis of Alienation (Job 19:13-20)

God’s Word gives us an insight into the human psyche, for in Job’s afflictions, he retreated into the seclusion often sought by those who suffer. If you have known rejection, endured personal attacks, or been dealt a setback, you might have known the temptation to retreat into solitude like a wounded soul.

Job had experienced the alienation of family and friends. He wrote, “[God] hath put my brethren far from me, and mine acquaintance are verily estranged from me” (19:13). He understood God was author of his troubles, but the response of his family, friends, and acquaintances wounded him. Job felt alone, forsaken by family (19:14a), and forgotten by friends (19:14b). Even the servants of his household dishonored him (19:15-16), and his wife abhorred his “breath [life, spirit]” (19:17). “Young children,” the picture of innocence, disdained him (19:18), and his most intimate friends turned against him (19:19).

A Plea for Pity and Vindication (Job 19:20-25)

His body physically wasted (19:20), Job turned his thoughts from self-pity, and plead with his friends for pity and understanding. He asked, “Why do ye persecute me as God, and are not satisfied with my flesh?” (19:21-22). He begged for the vindication of his innocence to be recorded for future generations to consider, and pity him (19:23-24). Though he was overwhelmed by sorrows, and did not know the cause of his afflictions, Job declared his faith saying, “25For I know that my redeemer liveth, and that he shall stand at the latter day upon the earth”(19:25).

Closing thoughts (19:26-29) – Though he was looking through the lens of inexplicable sorrows and losses, Job’s faith remained unshaken. He was confident the LORD was his Advocate and Redeemer, and believed He would rescue and ransom him out of trials. Job reasoned, even if his afflictions ended in death, and worms destroyed his body, he believed his Redeemer would raise him from the dead, and he would see God (19:26-27). Job’s rebuttal of Bildad concluded with a warning we should all consider: God is the final judge, and the day of his judgment will come (19:28-29; 42:7-9).

A word of invitation – Don’t be guilty of keeping a tally of wrongs committed against you (19:3). An angry, unforgiving spirit will eat at your soul and make you a slave to bitterness! Follow Job’s example, answer your enemies (Proverbs 10:12; 1 Peter 4:8), and turn to the LORD (Ephesians 4:30-32).

Copyright © 2023 – Travis D. Smith

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God is with us in joys, and in sorrows. (Job 16)

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Scripture reading – Job 16

Eliphaz had made no allowance for Job to be anything less than guilty of some great wickedness. After all, he reasoned, “the wicked man travaileth with pain all his days” (15:20a).  Having begun with that false premise, Eliphaz wrongly concluded God was punishing Job. Job’s response was recorded in three pleas in chapters 16-17.  The first was a plea for mercy, rather than comfort.

Job’s Response to Eliphaz (Job 16:1-6)

The introductory verses of Job 16 reflect the heart of a man who was weary of accusations, brought by men who came under the pretense of showing compassion. Instead of comfort, Eliphaz had wounded and offended Job. He and his friends were, in Job’s words, “miserable comforters” (16:2). Job rebuked Eliphaz , and said, “Shall vain words have an end? Or what emboldeneth thee that thou answerest?” In 21st century vernacular, Job essentially said, “Stop Talking! What makes you think you have anything worth saying?”

Job’s friends were unsympathetic to his plight, and their words only added to his misery (16:1-14).  Job contemplated, if he were he in Eliphaz’s place, he would be able to heap upon him similar judgments (16:4). Yet, had they born his sorrows, they would have empathy (16:4-5).

Job’s Complaint Against God (Job 16:7-22)

Turning from his friends, I count at least seventeen complaints Job confessed to God in Job 16:7-22. I will not take the time to list all of his complaints, but I remind you they reflect the anguish of a hurting, troubled man. Job believed his trials were from the LORD, but he did not know their cause. His complaints; however, shed light on the plight and emotions that afflict believers when we go through hard times.

Closing thoughts – Take a few moments and consider Job’s grievances. Grief had left him physically, and emotionally exhausted (16:7). Sorrow wrinkled his countenance, and his body was physically wasted (16:8). Yet, rather than pity, his “friends,” attacked him like a lion seizes its prey (16:9). Instead of compassion, they scorned and looked upon him with disdain (16:10-11), leaving him a broken, wounded soul (16:12).

Job was crushed under the weight and sorrows of his troubles (16:13-15). His face was swollen from weeping, and the dark circles under his eyes were like “the shadow of death” (16:16). Still, Job argued his innocence (16:17a), confessed his devotion to God (“my prayer is pure,” 16:17b), and maintained he had harmed no man (16:18). While his friends scorned him, and added to his sorrows (16:19-20a), Job held out hope God would vindicate him before he died (16:20b-22).

I close with a common adage for those who feel life is hanging by a thread:

TIE A KNOT, HANG ON, AND TRUST GOD!

Copyright © 2023 – Travis D. Smith

Heart of A Shepherd Inc is recognized by the Internal Revenue Service as a 501c3, and is a public charitable organization.

Mailing Address:
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You can email HeartofAShepherdInc@gmail.com for more information on this daily devotional ministry.