Joshuwa 1 - KBTP & CEVUS06

‘Our father died in the wilderness... Why should our father’s name disappear from his clan because he had no son Give us property among our father’s relatives.’”-8

As we celebrate Women’s Month, we honor the courage, faith, and resilience of women who shaped biblical history. Among these remarkable figures are Mahlah, Noah, Hoglah, Milkah, and Tirzah, the daughters of Zelophehad. Their boldness in claiming their inheritance set a precedent for justice and equality, proving that God values the voices of women.

A Bold Stand for Justice

During the Israelites’ journey to the Promised Land, inheritance was typically passed from father to son. However, Zelophehad had no sons—only daughters. These five women refused to be left without a heritage and took their case to Moses and the leaders.

“They came forward and stood before Moses, Eleazar the priest, the leaders and the whole assembly at the entrance to the tent of meeting and said, ‘Our father died in the wilderness… Why should our father’s name disappear from his clan because he had no son? Give us property among our father’s relatives.’” (Numbers 27:2-4, NIV)

These sisters stepped into a space where women traditionally had no say. Their courage teaches us that when something isn’t right, we shouldn’t be afraid to challenge the status quo.

God’s Approval of Women’s Voices

Moses took their case before God, and God Himself affirmed their request, showing that He values justice and fairness for all.

“So the Lord said to him, ‘What Zelophehad’s daughters are saying is right. You must certainly give them property as an inheritance among their father’s relatives and give their father’s inheritance to them.’”(Numbers 27:6-7, NIV)

God listens when we speak up for what is right. He values justice and is not bound by human traditions that limit women’s roles.

Faith That Changed the Law

Because of these women’s faith and persistence, a new law was established, ensuring that if a man died without a son, his daughters could inherit his land.

“This is what the Lord commands for Zelophehad’s daughters: You must give them property as an inheritance… Say to the Israelites, ‘If a man dies and leaves no son, give his inheritance to his daughter.’”(Numbers 27:8, NIV)

Faith isn’t just about believing; it’s about taking action and trusting God to bring justice. Their courage led to a lasting legal shift, proving that faith and action bring transformation.

A Legacy of Strength and Determination

Even after the law was established, these women continued to follow God’s direction, ensuring that their inheritance remained within their tribe, as per God’s command.

“No inheritance in Israel is to pass from one tribe to another, for every Israelite shall keep the tribal inheritance of their ancestors.” (Numbers 36:7, NIV)

Women are not just bystanders in history, we are active participants in God’s plans. When God opens a door, we must walk through it with confidence.

Women Have a Right to Be Heard

The courage of Zelophehad’s daughters echoes the promise that God is a defender of those who seek justice. Their voices mattered, and their plea changed an entire legal system.

“Defend the weak and the fatherless; uphold the cause of the poor and the oppressed.” (Psalm 82:3, NIV)

Advocating for justice is not just a worldly pursuit, it is a godly mission. When we stand for what is right, we align ourselves with God’s heart.

Courage Breaks Barriers

These five sisters refused to accept limitations. They believed in a God who grants justice and stepped forward, even when society didn’t favor them.

“Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged, for the Lord your God will be with you wherever you go.” (Joshua 1:9, NIV)

Boldness in faith leads to breakthrough. When we trust in God and take courageous steps, He goes before us and makes a way.

Women Are a Vital Part of God’s Plan

Their story proves that women have a place in God’s grand design. From the beginning, He intended for both men and women to carry out His will.

“There is neither Jew nor Gentile, neither slave nor free, nor is there male and female, for you are all one in Christ Jesus.” (Galatians 3:28, NIV)

Women are equally called to fulfill God’s purposes. The daughters of Zelophehad remind us that in Christ, we all have a divine inheritance.

A Celebration of Women’s Strength

As we celebrate Women’s Month, let us be inspired by Mahlah, Noah, Hoglah, Milkah, and Tirzah, women who dared to believe in justice and changed history. Like them, we can stand boldly, speak up for what is right, and trust God to make a way.

“God is within her, she will not fall; God will help her at break of day.” (Psalm 46:5, NIV)

May their story remind us that women are not just part of history, they shape it. Let us rise with courage, faith, and determination, knowing that God values our voices and honors our faith.

Have I not commanded you Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged, for the Lord your God will be with you wherever you go.

As we step into a brand-new year, it’s easy to get caught up in the “New Year, New Me” vibe. Social media is buzzing with resolutions, glow-ups, and vision boards. But let’s pause for a second, what if a fresh start isn’t just about what we do but about what God is doing in us?

1. A Promise of Renewal

The Bible is full of stories where God hits the reset button. Think about Noah. After the flood, God gave humanity a second chance. The rainbow became a symbol of His promise to never give up on us. Genesis 9:13 says, “I have set my rainbow in the clouds, and it will be the sign of the covenant between me and the earth.” This covenant reminds us that no matter how overwhelming life gets, God is always faithful to renew His relationship with us. He’s not just a God of second chances but of endless chances, each wrapped in His love and grace.

2. Grace for the Israelites

The Israelites messed up countless times, yet God’s grace led them into the Promised Land. His faithfulness shows us that no mistake is too big for a fresh start. Deuteronomy 31:8 reminds us, “The Lord himself goes before you and will be with you; he will never leave you nor forsake you. Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged.” Even in seasons of wandering and waiting, God was their guide and protector. This narrative is a powerful reminder that God’s presence remains constant, even when we lose our way.

3. Becoming a New Creation

Through Jesus, we’re not just given a clean slate, we’re made new. 2 Corinthians 5:17 declares, “Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, the new creation has come: The old has gone, the new is here!” This verse is a reminder that God’s transformation starts within. Being a new creation doesn’t mean life gets easier; it means we’re empowered by the Holy Spirit to live differently. It’s about leaving behind the labels and lies that once defined us and stepping boldly into the identity God has given us.

4. Letting Go of the Past

Sometimes life feels messy, and it’s hard to move forward. But God’s Word encourages us to release what’s behind. Isaiah 43:18-19 says, “Forget the former things; do not dwell on the past. See, I am doing a new thing!” God’s plans for us are always forward-focused. Letting go doesn’t mean pretending the pain or mistakes never happened. It means trusting God to use even our brokenness for His glory and to lead us into something better.

5. Daily Renewal Through Mercy

God’s mercies aren’t just for the start of the year, they’re new every single morning. Lamentations 3:22-23 proclaims, “Because of the Lord’s great love we are not consumed, for his compassions never fail. They are new every morning; great is your faithfulness.” This means every day is a fresh start. No matter how badly yesterday went, today is a chance to start over with God’s compassion as our foundation. His love is unshakable, and His faithfulness is unending.

6. Bold Steps of Faith

A fresh start often requires bold moves, like stepping out in faith. Joshua 1:9 encourages us, “Have I not commanded you? Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged, for the Lord your God will be with you wherever you go.” Trust that God’s got your back as you move forward. Taking bold steps can feel scary, but it’s often where we grow the most. It’s in these moments of uncertainty that we discover the depth of God’s strength and provision.

7. Trusting in His Plans

As we embrace a new year, we can find peace in knowing that God’s plans are always for our good. Jeremiah 29:11assures us, “For I know the plans I have for you,” declares the Lord, “plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.” This promise doesn’t mean life will be problem-free, but it does mean that God’s purposes are perfect. Even when things don’t make sense, we can trust that He is working all things together for our good.

How to Make It Practical

Pray About It: Ask God to show you what areas of your life need a reset. Be honest with Him; He can handle it.
Find Your Squad: Surround yourself with people who point you toward Jesus. Life hits different when you’ve got a community that lifts you up.
Set God-Centered Goals: Instead of just focusing on fitness or finances, think about how you can grow spiritually this year. Maybe it’s reading your Bible daily or serving others.

A Fresh Start for Everyone

Whether you’re stepping into this year with excitement or dragging last year’s baggage behind you, remember this: God specializes in fresh starts. He’s not limited by our failures or fears. His love is bigger, His grace is stronger, and His plans are better than anything we could imagine.

So, as you kick off this year, don’t just strive for change, invite God into your journey. He’s ready to write a new chapter in your story. Are you?

Ndzimu unopa Joshuwa ndaulo

Daughters Who Dared: The Women Who Changed Biblical Law

Out with the Old, In with God’s New Blessings!

This means every day is a fresh start. No matter how badly yesterday went, today is a chance to start over with God’s compassion as our foundation. His love is unshakable, and His faithfulness is unending.

1 Kwakati shule kwe lufu gwa Mushe nlanda wa Yahwe, Yahwe bakadwa Joshuwa nkololo wa Nuni wakabe ali mbatshi wa Mushe bakati, 2 “Nlanda wangu Mushe wafa, ndizoke, milika iwe ne bathu ibaba bose mutjuluke gwizi gwe Jorodani muyende ku shango yandinowomupa, imwi bathu be Iziraela. 3 Pamwe ne pamwe pamunowotshamba ndowomupa ipo koga sekwa ndakagadzabgwe Mushe. 4 Ndowomupa ntuthu wose kudwa pa tjilambanyika tjiku burwa kunoti ku matombo e Lebanoni. Migathu yenyu inowotangisa pa gwizi bukulu gwe Yufuratesi ku bhezhuba, itendebukila ku shango dze Bahiti iyenda tjose inoti ku Gungwa Bukulu kunomila zhuba. 5 Akuna nthu unowobe ne tjilopa tje kuma mbeli kuko mu butjilo gugo gose, koga sekwa ndakabe na Mushe ndowobe nawebo, andingafe ndakuletjedzela kene akusiya. 6 Sima, ube ne tjilopa ngobe unowotungamila bathu ibaba kuti batole shango yandakatuna kuna bobatategulu benyu kubapa iyo. 7 Sima ube ne tjilopa tjikulu. Ubone kuti unotobela nlayo wose wawakapiwa nge nlanda wangu Mushe, usitongobuya ukapambuka muuli kene kwakatini kuti ndizo ubhudilile kumwe ne kumwe kwaunoyenda. 8 Mu kunamata kwenyu, ubone kuti igogu Lukwalo gwe Nlayo gobagwa misi yose, ugubale siku ne sikati kuti ndizo ube ne njele kuthama tjimwe ne tjimwe tjakakwagwa mu guli, ngono unowobe ne kudwilila ne kubhudilila kumwe ne kumwe kwaunoyenda.Lukwalo gwe Nlayo 9 Apa andizokudwa kene? Sima ube ne tjilopa, usitje kene ili kutemeka mafupa ngobe Yahwe Ndzimu uwo banawe kumwe ne kumwe kwaunoyenda.”

Joshuwa unopa bathu ndaulo

10 Kudwa ipapo Joshuwa kadwa batungamili be Baiziraela kati, 11 “Palamani bukotokelo, ngono mudwe bathu muti, ‘Lulwamisani mbuba dzenyu, ngobe mu mazhuba matatu mowobe mutjuluka gwizi gwe Jorodani munotola shango yamunopiwa ndi Yahwe Ndzimu wedu.’ ” 12 Ngono Joshuwa kadwa Barubheni ne Bagadi ne gwamu le ludzi gwa Manase kati, 13 “Kumbulani ndaulo yamakapiwa ndi Mushe nlanda wa Yahwe eti, ‘Yahwe Ndzimu wenyu banowomupa bugalo gwe kunyaluluka, ngono banowomupa shango iyeyi.’ 14 Bakadzi benyu ne bana benyu ne zwithuwo zwenyu zwinga gala mu shango yamakapiwa ndi Mushe bhezhuba kwe Jorodani, koga balume bose be ngwa bakafanila kutungamila hama dzenyu Baiziraela. Makafanila kuti mubabhatshe, 15 kuswikilila Yahwe bebapa kunyaluluka, sekwa bakamuthamilabo, kakale kuswikila naibobo betola shango yabanopiwa ndi Yahwe Ndzimu wenyu. Kudwa ipapo mungabgwilila mukanogala mu shango yenyu iku bhezhuba kwe Jorodani, yamakapiwa ndi Mushe nlanda wa Yahwe.” 16 Bakashandula Joshuwa beti, “Tjimwe ne tjimwe tjawatibudza towotjithama ne kumwe ne kumwe kwaunotituma towoyenda. 17 Koga sekwa takahwa Mushe mu tjimwe ne tjimwe towokuhwabo. Ngono tshene Yahwe Ndzimu uwo bakabe nawe sekwa bakabe na Mushe! 18 Ani kene ani unokupandukila, asingalondolodze matama awo ne tjimwe ne tjimwe tjaunon'dwa unowobulawa. Koga tjiyapo sima ube ne tjilopa!”

Joshua Becomes the Leader of Israel

1 Moses, the Lord's servant, was dead. So the Lord spoke to Joshua son of Nun, who had been the assistant of Moses. The Lord said:

2 My servant Moses is dead. Now you must lead Israel across the Jordan River into the land I'm giving to all of you. 3 Wherever you go, I'll give you that land, as I promised Moses. 4 It will reach from the Southern Desert to the Lebanon Mountains in the north, and to the northeast as far as the great Euphrates River. It will include the land of the Hittites, and the land from here at the Jordan River to the Mediterranean Sea on the west. 5 Joshua, I will always be with you and help you as I helped Moses, and no one will ever be able to defeat you.

6-8 Long ago I promised the ancestors of Israel that I would give this land to their descendants. So be strong and brave! Be careful to do everything my servant Moses taught you. Never stop reading The Book of the Law he gave you. Day and night you must think about what it says. If you obey it completely, you and Israel will be able to take this land.

9 I've commanded you to be strong and brave. Don't ever be afraid or discouraged! I am the Lord your God, and I will be there to help you wherever you go.

The Eastern Tribes Promise To Help

10 Joshua ordered the tribal leaders 11 to go through the camp and tell everyone:

In a few days we will cross the Jordan River to take the land that the Lord our God is giving us. So prepare as much food as you'll need for the march into the land.

12 Joshua told the men of the tribes of Reuben, Gad, and East Manasseh:

13-14 The Lord's servant Moses said that the Lord our God has given you land here on the east side of the Jordan River, where you could live in peace. Your wives and children and your animals can stay here in the land Moses gave you. But all of you that can serve in our army must pick up your weapons and lead the men of the other tribes across the Jordan River. They are your relatives, so you must help them 15 conquer the land that the Lord is giving them. The Lord will give peace to them as he has given peace to you, and then you can come back and settle here in the land that Moses promised you.

16 The men answered:

We'll cross the Jordan River and help our relatives. We'll fight anywhere you send us. 17-18 If the Lord our God will help you as he helped Moses, and if you are strong and brave, we will obey you as we obeyed Moses. We'll even put to death anyone who rebels against you or refuses to obey you.