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Notes

Today in chapel, Dr. Thomas White continued to walk through the book of Joshua. As we reflect on Joshua 20–21, we discover key aspects of God's character — His justice, holiness, and faithfulness — and how He demonstrates His care for His people in both tangible and spiritual ways.

In Joshua 20, we see God’s concern for justice through the establishment of cities of refuge. These cities were places where someone who unintentionally caused the death of another could flee to find safety from vengeance (v. 3). This demonstrates that God values justice for both the innocent and the guilty.

Notice the characteristics of God’s justice:

Accessible: The cities were strategically placed so that no one was too far away from a place of refuge (v. 7–8). This reflects the accessibility of God's justice for all His people. No one is too far from God's justice.

Values Life: God’s justice does not seek retribution for the sake of revenge but for the preservation of life. The cities of refuge were not for those who intentionally harmed others, but for those who committed acts without malicious intent. God's justice promotes life and righteousness.

Due Process: It was important that the person seeking refuge was genuinely innocent (v. 6). This shows that God’s justice is thorough and demands accuracy, ensuring that due process is followed.

Universal: God's justice is for everyone. It is not restricted to a certain group, but accessible to all who need it.

One day, we will see true justice when Christ returns and all wrongs are righted. Until then, God’s justice is a gift to His people, ensuring that fairness and righteousness prevail in a broken world.

In Joshua 21, we learn that God values holiness when He provides cities for the Levites, the tribe set apart for His service. These cities were spread across the nation of Israel, ensuring that no one was far from a Levite (v. 41). This distribution reflects God’s desire for His people to be close to His presence, worship, and guidance.

The Levites were not given a portion of land as the other tribes were, because their inheritance was in serving God (Numbers 18:20). Their purpose was to lead others in worship and spiritual matters. Through the Levites’ proximity, the people were reminded of God’s holiness and how to live in accordance with His will.

Finally, in Joshua 21:43–45, we see the culmination of God's care for His people in the fulfillment of His promises. The land He had promised to the Israelites was given to them, just as He had said it would be. Every word of God’s promise was kept. God’s faithfulness is a constant theme throughout Scripture, and we can trust that He keeps every single promise He makes.

As we reflect on God's justice, holiness, and faithfulness, we can trust that He will continue to care for us in the same way. In our lives, God’s character remains the same: accessible, life-giving, and trustworthy.

Let us remember that, just as the Israelites were called to follow God’s ways, we too are called to live justly, walk in holiness, and trust in God's faithfulness. He is a God who cares deeply for His people, and His promises are sure.