I love how God provides cities of refuge for the people of Israel to run to if they are charged with manslaughter. These cities of refuge were a prefect solution for people to have protection from vigilante justice. In Deuteronomy chapter 19 Moses repeats God’s command that cities of refuge would be spread throughout the land that the Israelites would inherit. These cities of refuge were places where a person could be safe until it was determined whether they were guilty of manslaughter or not. I remember when I first read about cities of refuge in Numbers 35 and 36 how I began to wonder about the stories of people running to a city of refuge. My wonder has not been curtailed as I have continued to read through the Bible. I imagine that a city of refuge was a welcomed sight to someone in need of it. I imagine that it is like how I feel when I come home from an extended time away except that I have never had anyone chasing after me wanting to kill me. Do you ever have that feeling of relief and joy when you finally arrive to a place you have longed to reach? Every christian should have this heightened expectation as we wait for Jesus Christ’s return. Do you long for Jesus Christ’s return? The author of Hebrews tells us that our overall hope is found in Jesus Christ and that because of Him we have a secure future and an inheritance in the promise of eternal life. Take hold of that hope today!
Who fights for you? What strength is used to fight your battles? As I read Deuteronomy chapter 20 I saw a clear picture of the mindset of the Israelites when they were preparing for battle. The officers of the army go through the men and ask who of them is wholly ready for battle. If there was anything that was holding them back from fighting they were told to stay home. The victory in battle was not in the number of men that could be fielded in battle but only upon God could victory be assured. I think about the battles that I wage in my own walk to follow God’s commands. Do I feel that my ability and skill are what allow me to overcome stumbling blocks? It is all too easy for me to forget that God is more than able enable me to overcome my battles. I need to rest in God’s power not mine just as the Israelite army did in chapter 20.
