I hope you get a chance to go to the beach this summer. Next time you’re there, think of this description of the army that was gathered when the kings of Israel’s enemies joined forces and came together to fight against Israel. The army they assembled was so huge that it is described as being “in number like the sand that is on the seashore” (Josh. 11:4). Now, there is a whole lot of sand on the seashore, so we’re talking about a huge army! And not only was the army huge, there was the extra power and strength provided by a large number of horses and chariots.
God knew that the natural reaction of Joshua and the Israelites would be fear, so he gave Joshua an encouraging word: “Do not be afraid of them, for tomorrow at this time I will hand all of them, slain, to Israel ...” (Josh. 11:6). So Joshua and the army attacked suddenly and God gave them complete victory over their enemies.
You and I probably won’t face enemy soldiers today. But we do have an enemy. 1 Peter 5:8 tells us, “Be sober-minded; be watchful. Your adversary the devil prowls around like a roaring lion, seeking someone to devour.” But just as God gave his people victory over their enemies back in Joshua’s day, he will give us victory over ours. Let’s not take this threat lightly. Let’s take it seriously and trust God for the victory!
Lord, thank you for the victory that is ours in Jesus Christ our Lord!
Mary Roller
