Homosexual behavior is contrary to the Creator's design (Gen. 1:27-28), and therefore is entirely unnatural (Rom. 1:26-27). Homosexual acts are not good; they neither conform to the standard of good (righteousness) revealed in God's law, and they are not good ( beneficial) for an individual or for society. According to Scripture, homosexual activity is sinful and an abomination (Lev. 18:22; 20:13; Rom. 1:26-27; 1 Cor. 6:9; 1 Tim. 1:9-10). The rise and acceptance of homosexual relationships is a sign of moral degradation, is due to man?s suppression of the knowledge of God in his pursuit of idolatry, and is a revelation of God's wrath (Rom. 1:18-32; Gen. 19:1-11).
William Einwechter

71 GOD

71 GOD F O O T ================================

  • H O L D

READING

71 GOD’S MAN

PRAY Guide my thoughts, Lord, as I meditate upon your word.

READ Joshua 1:1-18

THINK What does this passage teach about God? Does Joshua give us an example to follow? In what way? —————————————————————- FOCUS Our local TV transmitter was in real trouble. Instead of planned programmes, all that appeared on our screens was a card: ‘Normal service will be resumed . . . ‘ Churches sometimes suffer interruptions in their worshipping life when ministers or other responsible people leave. Members may feel rather as Israel felt when Moses died (Deuteronomy 34:8). But God always has his plans ready as he had here (1-3). Note: GOD’S CALL: It was specific. It was to Joshua (1) and it explained what he was to do. It was sensitive to Joshua’s own personality (5-7). God knows what is in us. With his call comes his promise in the form that we need it. How might the promise of verse 9 help you this week? It was to serve him (7,8). There might well be problems and difficulties ahead, Joshua might not always be popular or live easy. But God had a future for his people (2), Joshua had an important part to play in it (6). It was vital that he follow God’s ways. JOSHUA’S RESPONSE. He obeyed! Joshua may well have been aftaid at the sheer size of the job God was giving him. But three times God commanded him to be determined and confident (6,7,9). And God amde him the tremendous promise of verse 5. So Joshua obeyed God and his leadership journey began. Consider the response of the people (16-18). Why is it improtant that we support our leaders? —————————————————————- PRAY Pray that you will be alert and open to God’s challenges to you . . . and ready to obey.