Read Joshua 5:13-6:27
The time has come for Israel’s conquest.
They have been waiting for God’s direction to move forward and He will not
leave them to be shamed for their faith. The story begins when Joshua is met by
the host of the Lord’s armies. The angel’s title reminds us that the battles we
face are not merely against flesh and blood, but are also being waged in the
heavenlies (Ephesians 6:12). Before hearing the angel’s message we are reminded
that the inhabitants of Jericho are terrified. They have sealed themselves in
and will not leave to make a first strike. Interestingly, they also do not
leave the walls to offer peace. This suggests that, while they were scared, the
citizens of Jericho firmly believe that they will be triumphant because of the
strength of their walls. The angel begins by assuring Joshua that the victory
has already been won. Even though the walls stand and the people of Jericho
remain, the Lord has already delivered Jericho into Joshua’s hands.
The angel then proceeds to give Joshua the
Lord’s directions for Israel. These directions are highly unorthodox for an
offensive manoeuvre. Seven priests are to march around the city blowing
trumpets, followed by the Ark of the Covenant. They will be preceded and followed
by armed men. They will do this for seven days, and then repeat this act seven
times on the seventh day. All the while, none of the Israelites can say a word
until Joshua gives the command. Imagine the sight for the people of Jericho.
What lunacy it would appear to be! Surely any rational leader would plan a
military strategy, not a parade. Again, we see that God’s ways are higher than
human ways. On the seventh day, after the seventh time circling Jericho, Joshua
gives the command and the people let out a shout. At their shout, the walls of
Jericho tumble. God chose to act in a way that would increase the Israelites’
dependence on Him instead of increasing their dependence on human power or
weapons. Surely He also intended this as a test of faith, obedience and
patience. Obeying God’s command, even when it seems foolish, displays a heart
that earnestly longs for God’s salvation. It was because of their faith that
the walls of Jericho fell (Hebrews 11:30).
The story of Jericho closes with a
warning. Except for certain items which will go into the Lord’s treasury,
everything is to be destroyed. All humans and living creatures are to be killed
(with the notable exception of Rahab and her family – see 2:17-19). Everything
else must be burned. At the time it was standard practice to take spoils from
victorious battles. It was considered the victor’s right. Refusing to take Jericho’s
goods made a bold statement. Israel was a separate nation dedicated to God.
They were not to meddle with the new cultures and religions of Canaan.
Prayer
and Journaling
1. When the walls of Jericho fell they likely
killed many of the townspeople. The very thing the people relied on for
protection wound up being their downfall. Ask God if there is anything you are
relying on in your life that keeps you from relying on Him. What are your
“walls of Jericho”?
2. Go back to your list of blessings from
yesterday. Thank God for these things again. Today, try to go into specific
detail in your thanksgiving. For example, you can thank God that food not only
nourishes our bodies, but it also comes in a variety of flavours which we can
enjoy. You can thank Him that your home not only provides shelter, but it is a
place for your family to grow in unity and for you to show hospitality to
others. When we really think about our thanksgiving instead of just rattling
off a list, our hearts begin to grow in genuine gratitude.
3. Pray for our church family today. Ask God
to grow us in faith and obedience. He wants His Body to do great things in His
name! Great faith and great obedience are required for this.
