Joshua 10:16-25

Spend time in prayer and silence with God asking him to meet you and speak to you.

Bible Reading

These five kings fled and hid themselves in the cave at Makkedah. And it was told to Joshua, “The five kings have been found, hidden in the cave at Makkedah.” And Joshua said, “Roll large stones against the mouth of the cave and set men by it to guard them, but do not stay there yourselves. Pursue your enemies; attack their rear guard. Do not let them enter their cities, for the Lord your God has given them into your hand.” When Joshua and the sons of Israel had finished striking them with a great blow until they were wiped out, and when the remnant that remained of them had entered into the fortified cities, then all the people returned safe to Joshua in the camp at Makkedah. Not a man moved his tongue against any of the people of Israel.

Then Joshua said, “Open the mouth of the cave and bring those five kings out to me from the cave.” And they did so, and brought those five kings out to him from the cave, the king of Jerusalem, the king of Hebron, the king of Jarmuth, the king of Lachish, and the king of Eglon. And when they brought those kings out to Joshua, Joshua summoned all the men of Israel and said to the chiefs of the men of war who had gone with him, “Come near; put your feet on the necks of these kings.” Then they came near and put their feet on their necks. And Joshua said to them, “Do not be afraid or dismayed; be strong and courageous. For thus the Lord will do to all your enemies against whom you fight.”

– Joshua 10:16-25

Devotion

Joshua continues to follow God as he begins to conquer the Promised Land. He entraps the five kings who hid themselves in a cave to later put them to death.

During this time Joshua reminds the people of the command that was given to him all throughout Deuteronomy and the beginning of this book, “Be strong and courageous”. God has given them confirmation that they can be confident in their trust – the Lord is fighting with Israel.

We can also be assured that God is in control. The inhabitants of Canaan had disobeyed the Lord for 400 years before God sent Israel in to possess the land. God had been very patient with them, giving them time to turn back to him. Finally the time for judgement had come by the hand of Joshua. Joshua is reminded to remain strong and courageous because he is part of God’s master plan. God is also patient with us and has a master plan for our lives and our world. He is a God of mercy and patience, but also a God of justice.

The Big Question

Reflecting on your life, would you conclude that you are serving God and moving his plans forward, or does your life exhibit rebellion against his plans and selfishness instead?

Conclude in prayer and silence, reflecting on what you’ve learned.