READ JOSHUA 6
GO DEEPER
This battle strategy appeared illogical. Joshua did not attempt to identify the weakest point in the wall or launch a surprise nighttime attack. Instead, the divine plan was for the Israelites to conquer the city by encircling it and shouting. This plan seemed impractical and risked ridicule from the people of Jericho. Implementing such a plan seemed absurd and detrimental to the Israelites' morale and faith in their God. Nevertheless, Joshua proceeded without hesitation upon receiving the directive from the Lord, demonstrating unwavering faith despite the seemingly flawed strategy.
God remains unchanged from the times when He guided Joshua and the Israelite army. He continues to issue commands that may not make sense to us. He often requires us to give more than we are comfortable with, to pray about seemingly impossible situations, and to refrain from indulging in pleasures that we believe would enhance our lives. Should we trust God even when His plans seem incomprehensible? If we only obey God when we fully understand His ways, then we are not truly following Him; instead, we are following our instincts. It is only when we make the choice to follow Jesus, despite not understanding or even wanting to, that we truly live by faith. As God's followers, we behave in ways that we would not on our own. We can adhere to God's plans because we have faith in the outcomes. We understand that if God instructs us to march to secure victory, then we must march! Embracing God's ways allows us to witness His provision in ways that we would not have experienced otherwise. By living in faith, we deepen our trust in Him, and He receives all the praise and glory.
QUESTIONS
1. What stood out to you the most in this passage?
2. What prevents you from living a life based on faith?
3. What are some instructions from God that you should begin to obey?