DCLM Daily Manna Devotional – 24th August 2026 – Between Judgment and Mercy

Mercy from God is that vital element that no one can earn, deserve or merit. It is an inalienable deed that underpins God’s dealings with fallible humankind, saved or unsaved. When all else fails, God’s mercies will never fail.

The Canaanites and other nations in the Promised Land engaged in battle against Joshua and the Israelites, with its spoils taken by the hills and southern territories. Joshua then advanced towards the conflict until the entirety of the land was subdued and allocated to the tribes of Israel, despite their unfavourable position. In this chapter, Joshua faced a coalition of Canaanite forces, defeating them before turning his attention to the northern region.

The city of Hazor was captured and burned, and Israel engaged the Israelites, with its spoils taken by the hills and southern territories of the land, continuing the conflict until the entirety of the land was subdued and allocated to the tribes of Israel. The account raises challenging questions regarding the nature of a loving God permitting such violence, particularly the killing of women and children. This narrative has sparked criticism about the justness of these holy wars and consequently perplexing many readers, leading to inquiries about the justness of divine benevolence.

The text emphasises that the people in the land repeatedly heard about God’s actions but chose to resist and did not seek mercy, with the Gibeonites being the only exception. Instead of pursuing peace, they relied on military might, having engaged in idol worship and iniquity for centuries, including horrific sacrifices. Ultimately, God’s judgment deemed it necessary to cleanse the land of these people as the people prepared to oppose Him rather than embrace His ways.

No one can fight against God and expect to win. It is an effort in futility when we roll out our battle gear instead of pleading and repenting. God delights in mercy, but He’s not interested in the death of the wicked, but that the wicked turn from his way and live. “As I live, saith the Lord GOD, I have no pleasure in the death of the wicked; but that the wicked turn from his way and live…”

THOUGHT FOR THE DAY: Entreaty secures favour faster than conflict

THE BIBLE IN ONE YEAR: Daniel 11-12