Joshua 8  After the sin of Achan is dealt with, the Lord sends Joshua and his people back to Ai.  This time they obey the Lord's commands and conquer Ai completely.  The Lord tells Joshua not to be afraid or dismayed.  The battle will still take place, but this time the Lord is with them and victory will be given.

After the conquest of Ai, Joshua sets up an altar in Mount Ebal.  There they offer sacrifices - burnt offerings and peace offerings.  Joshua writes a copy of the law on the stones and he reads the entire book of the law before the people.

It is the Word of God that guides us to the will of God.  The people needed to remember that the Lord, the God of Israel, was in control.  It is in obedience to His commands that they will find not only victory, but life.   We need that same constant reminder.  We need to be in the Word constantly, being " transformed by the renewing of" of our minds.  Only the Living and active Word of God is capable of such a work as this... restoring, refashioning, and redeeming us through and through.  God's Word is the Sword of the Spirit, the instrument He uses - "For the word of God is living and active and sharper than any two-edged sword, piercing as far as the division of soul and spirit, of both joints and marrow, and able to judge the thoughts and intentions of the heart." ( Hebrews 4:12)

Father, open our ears to hear Your Word today, to remember all You have done and to worship You.  To come into right attitudes of obedient surrender to our Sovereign God who rules over all the earth and all the heavens.
Speak to our hearts and give us ears to listen. Thank You for Your faithfulness and lovingkindness. We will exalt You and bless Your Name forever and ever.  Amen.