This chapter details the ongoing conquest of Canaan, following the tribes as they continue to destroy or drive out the remaining inhabitants.
“After the death of Joshua, the Israelites asked the Lord, ‘Who of us is to go up first to fight against the Canaanites?’ The Lord answered, ‘Judah shall go up; I have given the land into their hands.’ The men of Judah attacked Jerusalem also and took it. They put the city to the sword and set it on fire. After that, Judah went down to fight against the Canaanites living in the hill country, the Negev and the western foothills. The Lord was with the men of Judah. They took possession of the hill country, but they were unable to drive the people from the plains, because they had chariots fitted with iron.” (v1-2,8-9,19)
I’m not sure about you, but the Lord has called me into some rather daunting circumstances at times – whether it’s a public speaking engagement (I’m extremely introverted) or a long-term mission, I always feel ill-prepared. The good news is, God also provides backup and support for us in that which He calls us to do.
“The men of Judah then said to the Simeonites their fellow Israelites, ‘Come up with us into the territory allotted to us, to fight against the Canaanites. We in turn will go with you into yours.’ So the Simeonites went with them. When Judah attacked, the Lord gave the Canaanites and Perizzites into their hands, and they struck down ten thousand men at Bezek.” (v3-4) Not only did God go before Judah and deliver their enemies into their hands, He also allowed them to take a second tribe for backup.
Several passages in the Bible speak to the truth that God supports us. “He rescued me from my powerful enemy, from my foes, who were too strong for me. They confronted me in the day of my disaster, but the Lord was my support.” (Psa 18:17-18) “Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid or terrified because of them, for the Lord your God goes with you; he will never leave you nor forsake you.” (Deu 31:6) “So do not fear, for I am with you; do not be dismayed, for I am your God. I will strengthen you and help you; I will uphold you with my righteous right hand.” (Isa 41:10)
Is there anything God is calling us to do, in which we are hesitant to obey? Fear not, He will be with us, and He may even send a friend (or friends) along for the journey. Did Moses face Pharaoh on his own? Did Peter face the Sanhedrin alone? God is always with us, and He often sends others alongside as well. My challenge for today is to boldly embrace that which the Lord is calling us to do, and if we can’t do it alone, ask someone to join us. Remember: not even Jesus walked this world alone – He had the Father and Holy Spirit to aid Him.
Father God, our Savior and King, our place of Refuge and Strength, great and mighty is Your name. We come before You a weak and cowardly people. Please embolden us through Your Holy Spirit, so we may courageously help build Your kingdom. Thank you for the gift of Your church, those who can help us along our journey. We ask for Your hand of guidance upon us, that we may complete the calling(s) You place before us and we may bring glory, honor and praise to Your name, forever and ever, amen.
~ Conqueror in Training