Text: Joshua 20:1-9 (cf. Num.35:9)
In those ancient days, if someone was killed, a person from the dead person’s family could kill the murderer, even if the death was an accident. Cain feared that (Gen.4:15). Obviously, those kinds of killings could go back and forth
forever. God put an end to that horrible, foolish custom and established justice in His nation. The person who killed someone could go to a city of refuge, explain his situation, and if the elders thought the killing was an accident, the
killer could live safely in the city.
Murder is serious, but all sin deserves the death penalty from God (Rom.6:23), because all sin is disobedience to God (Gen.2:17). God comes against all persons to bring the death penalty for sin. But He has also established a place
of refuge so that we can be safe from His condemnation. Jesus Christ already paid the death penalty, and if we run to Him, we will be safe. Please, trust in Jesus as your Saviour. You will not need to fear God’s judgment, and you will have assurance of eternal life.
Meditate on verse 3. Where is your refuge?
Father, in the name of Jesus Christ, thank You for the gift of Jesus Christ who is my refuge and strong rock. Amen.