READING: Joshua 8-9; Luke 6:37-7:10
If you remember the story of Ai, you’ll recall that the armies of Israel suffered a devastating defeat after Achan and his family stole goods from the defeated city of Jericho. Thirty-six of their warriors lost their lives in that battle—and the Hebrews experienced their first military defeat in the Promised Land.
But, God is a God of second chances. He sent His forces back to Ai, and this time the result was quite different: “When Israel had finished killing everyone living in Ai who had pursued them into the open country, and when every last one of them had fallen by the sword, all Israel returned to Ai and struck it down with the sword” (Josh 8:24). This time, the people followed God’s plan to victory—and the king of Ai would become only a “pile of rocks” (Josh 8:29) that covered his dead body. So, I say it again: “God is a God of second chances.”
I thank God that He is such a God, as I’ve needed more than one second chance through the years. In fact, He’s been so “second chance gracious” to me that I’m compelled to walk in full obedience today.
PRAYER: “God, I’m so thankful for second chances. I praise You for Your grace.”
TOMORROW’S READING: Joshua 10-12; Luke 7:11-35
