23/08/2026
*DAILY Ⓜ️ANNA*
*🗓️MONDAY 24TH AUGUST, 2026*
*BETWEEN JUDGMENT AND MERCY*
*📖TEXT:* JOSHUA 11:10-23
*🔑📖 KEY VERSE:* _"There was not a city that made peace with the children of Israel, save the Hivites the inhabitants of Gibeon: all other they took in battle" (JOSHUA 11:19)._
*📖MESSAGE:*
Mercy from God is that vital element that no one can earn, deserve or merit. It is an inalienable deed that underpins God's dealings with fallible humankind, saved or unsaved. When all else fails, God's mercies will never fail.
The Canaanites and other nations in the Promised Land engaged in battle against Joshua and the Israelites without seeking a peace agreement, despite their unfavourable position. In this chapter, Joshua faced a coalition of Canaanite forces, defeating them before turning his attention to the northern region. The city of Hazor was captured and burned, with its spoils taken by the Israelites. Joshua then advanced towards the hills and southern territories, continuing the conflict until the entirety of the land was subdued and allocated to the tribes of Israel. The account raises challenging questions regarding the nature of a loving God permitting such violence, particularly the killing of women and children. This narrative has sparked criticism towards the Scripture, leading to inquiries about the justness of these holy wars and casting doubt on divine benevolence, consequently perplexing many readers.
The text emphasises that the people in the land repeatedly heard about God's actions but chose to resist and did not seek mercy, with the Gibeonites being the only exception, although through deceit. Instead of pursuing peace, they relied on military might, having engaged in idol worship and iniquity for centuries, including horrific sacrifices. Ultimately, God's judgment deemed it necessary to cleanse the land of those viewed as rebels and enemies, as the people were prepared to oppose Him rather than embrace His ways.
No one can fight against God and expect to win. It is an effort in futility when we roll out our battle gear instead of pleading and repenting. God delights in mercy. He's not interested in the death of the wicked, but that the wicked turn to Him in repentance and live. "As I live, saith the Lord GOD, I have no pleasure in the death of the wicked; but that the wicked turn from his way and live..."
*✍️ THOUGHT FOR THE DAY:* _Entreaty secures favour faster than conflict._
*THE 📖BIBLE IN ONE YEAR:* DANIEL 11-12
Repent and Accept Jesus as your personal Lord and Saviour now before it's too late. Pls Remember He is Coming Very Soon for His own. Thanks, good morning.
Stay Blessed and Safe.