Please read Joshua 11:1-23 in preparation for today’s lesson.
In Joshua 11, we read all about the conquests of Joshua and the Israelites as God advanced their possession of the promised land. The passage starts out with a large group of kings from the Northern kingdom, led by Jabin king of Hazor, gathering together against Israel. There are 31 kings and cities involved in this consolidation of forces.
The size of these unified enemy forces coming against God’s people would surely put fear into the hearts of Israel. Even though they had defeated Jericho and Ai, and numerous other kings and cities to the South, now they have a new threat facing them in the North, a much larger and more daunting threat.
Surely, we can relate to the fear and the need of the Israelites for help as they approached this new foe. You are no doubt aware that with each new spiritual battle in your life, with each new threat you face, you need fresh grace from God in His Word. Such was the case with Joshua and the Israelites as they faced this battle in the North, and so God came to Joshua and strengthened him by saying:
“Then the LORD said to Joshua, "Don't be afraid of them, because at this time tomorrow I will give them to you. You will cripple their horses and burn all their chariots” (Joshua 11:6).
We need to be in the habit of turning to God in His Word and in prayer each and every time we are faced with a new challenge, when we have to fight another battle, when we receive a new threat. God has new grace, fresh grace, more grace for us for each and every single thing we go through in life:
“New dangers and difficulties make it necessary to bring in fresh supplies and comforts from the word of God, which is always near us, and which we should use in times of need.--Matthew Henry Commentary on the Whole Bible
“But He gives more grace” (James 4:6).
“The LORD's love never ends; his mercies never stop. They are new every morning; LORD, your loyalty is great” (Lamentations 3:22-23).
Question 1. What types of battles have you faced in your life? Has God’s Word helped you to overcome? Write about your experience here.
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Amanda writes, "Most of my battles begin with selfishness and negativity. For years I've tried fighting them by trying to claim the words of God, not always as I should, however. I had never realized how to go to the cross and I am so thankful now to understand how I can look to the cross and the resurrecting power for victory over sin and guilt."
Carol writes, "Unfortunately when I faced the worst battles i didn’t have the word of God as my shield. Knowing what I know now I wish I had had it. I can see that it can be a source of strength no matter what we face. Knowing I can turn to it now is a comfort to me."
Karen writes, "I have experienced the depth of pain and shame from my sin and being abused. I have fought for the Gospel to go forth and for God's people to be treated as God would want. I am strengthened every day as I read God's Word and know more of His character and how to run the race. He shows me His grace, mercy and protection, His amazing character and how I can do all things in Christ! Lord, help me to walk closely with you, to walk in Your ways an righteousness, Your plans and all that you have for me today and every day. I long to shine your light brightly for others!"