Daily Devotion, January 16, 2020

Devotion:

Read Joshua 6:15-19.

If you grew up attending Sunday school, you know the story of Joshua and Jericho. You might have sung this song:

Joshua fought the battle of Jericho, Jericho, Jericho - Joshua fought the battle of Jericho - And the walls came a-tumbling down

Up to the walls of Jericho - They marched with spears in hand - "Come blow them ram horns, " Joshua said "'Cause the battle is in our hands."

Then the lamb ram sheep horns began to blow - The trumpets began to sound - Joshua commanded the children to shout - And the walls came a-tumblin' down (that mornin')…

 

The same God still guides us today, and by studying this account, we gain insight into living obediently. Joshua heard God’s directive. In order for us to obey, we likewise need to hear what the Lord is telling us to do. This means we must be reading and meditating on His Word, praying, and spending time with Him. Joshua did as instructed, despite three possible obstacles. 1. Marching around the city didn’t seem like a practical battle strategy for overpowering a fortified city. 2. He felt pressured to explain himself to his men in order to gain their approval and agreement. 3. He could have let fear of failure keep him from obeying God. Upon hearing God’s voice, he followed instructions to the letter—and without hesitation. The details of what to do and what not to do were precise.  Are you willing to do what God says, regardless of your feelings or misgivings? Joshua was confident because the Lord had promised to give Jericho into his hand. And God’s promises to us are also the reason we can trust and obey Him.

Personal Worship Option:

Father in heaven, battle cries rage in the world around us. Give us the peace that surpasses all understanding through the Prince of Peace, Jesus. Amen.