Before the battle had even begun, God told Joshua HE had delivered Jericho into Joshua’s hands.
I know we don’t really like to talk about battles or wars anymore. The idea of everyone “co-existing” together sounds nice. Driving around town or on our highways, many of us will spot a bumper sticker or two with that word “coexist” spelled out using the symbols of multiple religions and cults.
But it will never happen.
Until Jesus returns and He brings His judgment upon the earth, battles and wars will remain. So no matter how peaceful we wish our lives could be, the truth is our lives, this side of heaven, will be tainted with conflict.
For many of us, an unseen war is already raging against us. Fighting us and trying to keep us from embracing who we are in Christ.
We are reminded in Ephesians 6:12:
“For we do not wrestle against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against the authorities, against the cosmic powers over this present darkness, against the spiritual forces of evil in the heavenly places.”
But while that is true, we are not to be discouraged or feel defeated. Jesus has already fought the ultimate battle on the cross and WON! Because of Christ, we fight these battles from a place of victory, not defeat.
If only more Christians in our country and around the world would embrace this truth.
In verses 2-6 of Joshua 6 we see some pretty detailed commands God gives to Joshua.
The first thing I notice is that God’s warfare tactics are not like ours. God basically tells Joshua to attack Jericho with some marching men, trumpet carrying priests, the Ark of the Lord, and finally on the last day, shouts from all the people.
And you know what? Joshua obeys not matter how crazy God’s military tactic sounds.
Why? Because He trusts God. He knows God will do what He says He will do.
What God promises, He fulfills.
Through those crazy military tactics, God’s amazing power is displayed to an evil nation…and His own watching children.
If Joshua had attacked Jericho using conventional military wisdom of the day and succeeded, God’s hand would not have been seen as clearly in the victory of the battle nor gloried the same way.
The unconventional military tactics were as much for the evil nation as they were for God’s people.
God does the same for us today through His Word.
What then shall we say to these things? If God is for us, who can be against us? Romans 8:31
Friend, God is for you.
Maybe your city of “Jericho” is in your life to show you, and the unbelieving world around you, just how powerful God is.
Be a “Joshua” and obey God’s Word. Do what He says and watch as God tears down “Jericho” walls before your very eyes. There is no situation, no pain, no sin so great that God can’t handle and no problem too big for His mighty hands.
“The wall of the city shall fall down” (Joshua 6:5) was God’s promise, and His promises never fail (21:45; 23:14). God’s people don’t simply fight for victory but from victory, because the Lord has already won the battle. Reckon on His promises and obey what He tells you to do, and you shall have the victory.”- Warren Wiersbe
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I would love to listen to God and have faith that what He says will happen, will indeed happen in my life, but I have the most difficult of times hearing God and therefore listening to Him. It’s something I’ve struggled with for years since becoming a Christian almost 3 years ago.
Melissa did you just become a Christian in word or did you believe with you whole heart? Where you had a truly saving event where he changed your heart? Where you were truly born again? If you did and you are a child of God he is waiting on you. If not, pray until he changes your heart. Several things can hender hearing him. Clean up the sin in your life, pray and study his word. Then listen to his still small voice. It’s there but dont listen with your head but follow your heart.
Cindy, that is excellent advise. You are very right.
Melissa, if you are not sure, please seek counsel from you pastor or an elder at your church. Or you can even speak to a Christian woman you know and trust that you may see as a mentor. It takes a little practice but once you learn to be still and recognize God’s voice, it will be the best day of your life. God Bless! xoxo