“So the men went and passed up and down in the land and wrote in a book a description of it by towns in seven divisions. Then they came to Joshua to the camp at Shiloh, and Joshua cast lots for them in Shiloh before the Lord. And there Joshua apportioned the land to the people of Israel, to each his portion.” (v9-10)
Have you wondered about the practice of “casting lots” in the Bible – what is it and why was it used? In summary, this practice used sticks or stones with markings on them, rolled like dice, and it was believed the outcome would show the Hebrews the will of God. “The lot is cast into the lap, but its every decision is from the Lord.” (Pr 16:33) God allowed this practice for many important decisions including the division of land (v2-10), and assigning duties (eg. priestly duties in 1 Chr 24:5-19).
So why don’t we still have this practice today if it was allowed by God? Well, interestingly enough, the practice was only used up until the Day of Pentecost. The final recorded instance of this practice was casting lots to see which disciple would replace Judas as one of the main twelve (Ac 1:17,26).
So what changed? Why didn’t the early church continue in the practice of casting lots? Well, on the Day of Pentecost the Holy Spirit came to dwell in all believers. This was the turning point – we no longer needed external divination (such as casting lots or a prophet) to tell us God’s will, the Holy Spirit would now guide each of us directly. We also have the added benefit of a complete Bible, which the Hebrews did not have.
With the powerful combination of God’s word, and the indwelling Holy Spirit, we have all of the guidance we need in order to obey God’s will. The challenge for today is to listen intently to what God may be trying to tell us (two examples of how we can listen are reading His word and praying). He longs to speak with us (He sacrificed His Son in order to reconcile us to Him), so let’s listen to what He wants to share.
Father God, almighty Lord of Abraham, Isaac and Jacob, You are great and awesome in works and word. Father thank you for giving us the gift of the Spirit and Your word so we may understand Your leading in our lives. Father please help us to remain attentive to Your guidance, and lend You our listening ear on a consistent basis. Please help us to obey Your will in our lives, so Your will would be done here on earth as it is in heaven. All honor, power and glory be to You, our Lord God, forever and ever, amen.
~ Conqueror in Training