As for the inhabitants of the mountain regions from Lebanon to Misrephoth Maim, that is, all the Sidonians, I myself will drive them out before the Israelites.
Joshua 13:6
I have been reading this week about the various exploits on which Joshua led the Israelites. Though their enemies were often larger and stronger than they, God instructed them to be strong and courageous. He promised to fight for them - to deliver the enemy into their hands. And when the Israelites did as they were commanded, they always experienced victory. The enemy was defeated. They marched into the cities and totally destroyed everything. Just as the LORD commanded.
For twelve chapters I had been reading about the action of the Israelites under God's command and now in 13:6, suddenly it was God Himself who was going to drive out the enemy.
God, Himself.
And I had to pause and wonder, why? Why was God going to do it Himself this time? Why weren't the Israelites going into battle? Why?
Was it the mountains? Were they too dangerous for battle?
Was it because Joshua was now "old and well advanced in years"? (13:1) Perhaps he didn't have what it takes to lead the Israelites into battle anymore?
I really don't know the answer to the why.
But in my ponderings and questioning I believe God led me to this explanation: Sometimes God calls us to be strong and courageous, to trust in Him as we go forth with Him to face our enemies.
And sometimes - when God knows it is the best thing - He Himself will remove our enemy from before us. He will not call on us to act, simply to trust and believe that He can do it.
Whether God is calling you into action or He Himself is driving your enemies out before you, I pray this day finds you fully trusting in the LORD your God. May His peace rest upon you.
9 comments:
Amen. The battle belongs to the Lord whether He works through us or sweeps in and miraculously does it Himself! Either way it is always ALL Him! Blessings sister!
You know, that waiting on God thing....it is so hard for those of us who like CONTROL. But, I am learning. I love to see God work, regardless of how He chooses to do it.
Leah
I think the whole story of Joshua is such a miracle... amazing... this was definitely one point I have never pondered!!
Blessings to you today!
Amanda
Ya know, Karen, my stubborn self still feels the need to "do" although God has already taken care of it!
smooches,
Larie
Karen,
I caught up on your last several posts and can really relate to your struggle. My soul craves a chunk of time alone and I don't see it in my future.
I think sometimes we have to press on, that we don't get the answer we necessarily want and that God is working in us the entire time.
Like you pointed out with Joshua, sometimes only God knows what is the best thing and we have to trust.
Happy Friday!
I have been surrounded by a message that is now starting to sound very loud and clear to me...takes me awhile...I am a girl who likes to fight her own battles...not because I am good at it...but rather because then I think I am in control and my pride gets all puffed up...its really actually an ugly seen...but I am right now standing in the middle of a battle and God has VERY clearly instructed me to be quiet and let Him fight it for me...He has whispered to my heart each day "I am your defender"
Thank you Karen for being a deliverer of His message today!
Be strong and courageous! I just love that scripture.
We are strong through Him.Thanks for this great word today.
Thank you Karen. You have no idea how I need this.
Much love!
Good Word!!! Thanks!
very timely too!!
have a great weekend!
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