June 17
When He speaks
But the LORD said to Joshua, “Do not be afraid because of them...” Joshua 11:6 (NKJV)
Imagine you’re Joshua. You were specifically groomed and chosen to finish that task that Moses wasn’t allowed to. Your mission is to cross over into the territory that God had promised to your Hebrew ancestors several centuries earlier. Before you is a land flowing with milk and honey, but it’s also filled with kings and kingdoms that don’t plan on going anywhere!
Initially, you experience swift success. A series of victories puts you on the map—as well as on the collective radar of everyone else who is left standing in your way. The consensus among them is clear: “We need to join forces in order to defeat these Hebrews or we’re going to get picked off one at a time.”
So the opposing kings pooled their power and came against Joshua and the rest of Israel. According to the ancient historian Josephus, this coalition army consisted of 300,000 soldiers on foot, 10,000 soldiers on horseback, and 20,000 war chariots. That force is all the more formidable when you consider that Israel didn’t have any horses, much less chariots.
Now if you’re Joshua, the fear and apprehension is starting to seep into your soul as news of the army arrayed against you begins to trickle in. And it’s at this critical juncture, as Joshua is undoubtedly beginning to doubt his ability to lead Israel to victory, that we come across another “But the LORD….” This time, God assures him, “Do not be afraid.” Joshua was indeed assured, and Israel miraculously prevailed (Joshua 6:7-15).
Earth can be a very scary place. There’s a lot out there that can fill us with fear and even paralyze us. However, it’s at those times that the Lord is willing and able to turn the tide in our favor. He comes close and says, “Do not be afraid.” And His assurance is the turning point and the difference between terror and triumph.
Think About It…
What does this passage reveal to me about God?
What does this passage reveal to me about myself?
Based on this, what changes do I need to make?
What is my prayer for today?
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