PRAYER - "Othniel, First Judge"
It often takes a crisis to make us pray. Such was the case in Israel after Joshua died. The people began worshiping Baalim and groves of idols, so God sent the king of Mesopotamia to rule harshly over them. Finally the people cried unto the Lord for a deliverer, and He sent to them a godly leader: Othniel, the son of Kenaz, Caleb's brother; Israel's first judge.

Judges 3:10 - "And the Spirit of the LORD came upon him, and he judged Israel, and went out to war: and the LORD delivered Chushanrishathaim king of Mesopotamia into his hand."

PRINCIPALS - "Joshua"

Moses' protégé', Joshua, is one of the squeakiest clean characters in the Bible. His testimony was virtually flawless - great faith, courageous, loyal to God and leader. It is no surprise that God handed the reigns to him when Moses died. Here is a great lesson for all would-be men and women of God. God rewards obedient faithfulness.

Joshua 1:5 - "There shall not any man be able to stand before thee all the days of thy life: as I was with Moses, so I will be with thee: I will not fail thee, nor forsake thee."

PRINCIPLES - "Be Strong and Courageous"

Joshua made an inspiring "pep talk" to Israel before crossing Jordan. "Have not I commanded thee? Be strong and of a good courage; be not afraid, neither be thou dismayed: for the LORD thy God is with thee whithersoever thou goest," (Joshua 1:9). Do you think they would have conquered Canaan if they had been weak and afraid? Of course not! Every person faces weakness and fear eventually, but it has to be overcome. God commands it! Toss out all the self-doubts right now, and move forward.

Joshua 1:18 - "...only be strong and of a good courage."

PROPHECIES - "The Death of Moses"

At 120, Moses viewed the Promised Land from Mounts Nebo and Pisgah, across Jordan, near Jericho. He could see where several tribes would settle. Then he died in the mountain. God buried him in a secret place near Bethpeor. Michael the archangel contended with Satan over Moses' body, rebuking him in the name of the Lord (Jude 1:9). Peter, James and John saw Moses standing on the mount with Jesus 1400 years later.

Deuteronomy 34:5 - "So Moses the servant of the LORD died there in the land of Moab, according to the word of the LORD."