Joshua-6
The Battle for Jericho: A Devotional Study on Joshua 6
Introduction
The book of Joshua is packed with examples of God's faithfulness and Israel's obedience. Chapter 6 tells a fascinating story of God's sovereignty and Israel's obedience to conquer the city of Jericho. In this devotional study, we will explore spiritual insights and reflection questions from Joshua's battle for Jericho.
Section 1: Preparation and Faith (Joshua 6:1-5)
Devotional Thought: The preparations for the battle are intriguing in their simplicity. Joshua gave specific orders to the priests and people. They marched around the city for six days, carrying out a ceremonial act of faith. Throughout the exercise, they did not raise a hand or shout a war cry, relying solely on God’s promise to deliver them the city. Today, let's reflect on the importance of faith and taking significant actions by faith.
Reflection Questions:
- What promises of God are you currently believing for?
- How are you demonstrating faith in the promises of God through your actions?
Section 2: Trusting God's Instructions (Joshua 6:6-16)
Devotional Thought: God commanded them to march around the city with the ark seven times before the walls crashed down. The first five days were uneventful, showing the importance of trusting God's instructions even when they seem illogical. The repetitive nature of this exercise also demonstrated consistency, integrity, and the discipline of obedience. Let's delve into how we handle unfathomable instructions in our spiritual walks.
Reflection Questions:
- Are you willing to follow God's instructions even when they seem paradoxical, unfathomable or illogical?
- How consistent, disciplined, and obedient are you in your spiritual walk?
Section 3: The Fall of Jericho (Joshua 6:17-21)
Devotional Thought: The fall of Jericho was sudden and shockingly easy. The walls gave way, and the city was plundered. The inhabitants fled in terror at the sight of God's faithfulness to His people (Josh 6:25). In retrospect, there was no battle, except the one between God's people and their fears. Today, let's identify our fears and replace them with God's promises.
Reflection Questions:
- What fears are you currently facing?
- Are there any promises of God that can replace the fears you are facing?
Section 4: Conquest of the City (Joshua 6:22-27)
Devotional Thought: Joshua put Rahab and her family under oath, signifying the magnanimity and justice of God’s conquest. Keeping his covenant with Rahab, Joshua spared her and her family from the conquest. This moment was a testimony to God’s faithfulness and justice. Today, let's reflect on how God's faithfulness and justice apply to our daily lives.
Reflection Questions:
- Have you seen firsthand the faithfulness and justice of God in your life?
- How can we show God’s faithfulness and justice to others?
Conclusion:
As we conclude our devotional journey through chapter 6 of Joshua, let's stand in awe of God's sovereignty and Israel's faithfulness. This narrative provides a template for us to follow, teaching us how to handle God's promises and instructions, fight the battle between faith and fear, and replace our fears with faith in God's promises. May we, like Joshua and Israel, trust and obey God's instructions without reservation.