Joshua 10—12: The Lord Fights for Israel
GOD DEMONSTRATES HIS faithfulness to every Christian. He strengthens us when we are weak, comforts us when we are suffering, heals us when we are sick. He provides for all of our physical, emotional and spiritual needs. After all this, why do we often find it difficult to trust him? Joshua and Israel had miraculously crossed the Jordan and conquered the cities of Jericho and Ai. Yet in spite of these victories, they still needed to be reassured that God was with them.
Warming Up to God
Why is it often hard to trust God for the future even though he has been faithful in the past?
Read Joshua 10—12. »
Discovering the Word
- The Lord tells Joshua, "Do not be afraid of them; I have given them into your hand" (10:8). After miraculously crossing the Jordan and conquering Jericho and Ai,why would Joshua need this reassurance?
- Verse 14 concludes, "Surely the LORD was fighting for Israel!" How is this obvious from 10:9-15?
- After the Lord reassures him, how does Joshua reassure his army about future battles (10:16-27)?
- How does the Lord demonstrate his faithfulness to Israel during the southern campaign (10:29-43)?
- During the northern campaign, how does Joshua demonstrate his obedience to the Lord (11:6-23)?
- In chapters 11—12 we do not read of any miraculous intervention by God as we did in previous chapters. How did the Israelites know that God was still the one giving them the victory?
Applying the Word
- In spite of past victories, in what areas do you need to be reassured of God's presence and power? Explain.
- What can we do to encourage others about God's faithfulness?
- Why is our obedience an important factor if we wish to see God's power?
Responding in Prayer
Pray that God would make his presence real to you.
For Further Study
Invitation to Solitude and Silence by Ruth Haley Barton