How should believers respond when facing seemingly insurmountable opposition? Setting the Scene Joshua 11 recounts Israel’s campaign against a coalition of northern Canaanite kings. Verse 20 explains why these enemies seemed so united and daunting: “For it was of the LORD to harden their hearts to engage Israel in battle, so that they would be completely destroyed without mercy and be annihilated, just as the LORD had commanded Moses.” (Joshua 11:20) What the Verse Teaches about “Impossible” Opposition • God may allow, or even arrange, circumstances that look overwhelming. • The purpose is never random; it serves His larger redemptive plan. • When opposition rises, it is not proof of God’s absence but evidence of His sovereign hand at work. Core Principles for Facing Overwhelming Odds • God is in control before, during, and after the battle. • Victory is certain when He has spoken, though timing and method rest with Him. • The size of the obstacle highlights the sufficiency of His power. Practical Responses for Believers Today • Trust God’s sovereignty – “If God is for us, who can be against us?” (Romans 8:31) • Obey promptly and completely – Israel followed “all that the LORD had commanded Moses” (Joshua 11:15). • Refuse fear and discouragement – “Do not be afraid or discouraged…for the battle is not yours, but God’s.” (2 Chronicles 20:15) • Stand still when He says wait, move when He says go – “The LORD will fight for you; you need only to be still.” (Exodus 14:14) • Arm yourself spiritually – “Put on the full armor of God.” (Ephesians 6:11) • Remember past deliverances – Joshua could look back to the Red Sea, Jericho, and Ai; we recall our own testimonies. • Expect God to turn enemy schemes to His glory – What looks like certain defeat becomes undeniable evidence of His power. Encouraging Cross-References • Psalm 27:1 – “The LORD is my light and my salvation; whom shall I fear?” • Isaiah 41:10 – “Do not fear, for I am with you… I will uphold you with My righteous right hand.” • 1 Samuel 17:47 – “The battle belongs to the LORD.” • 2 Corinthians 12:9 – “My grace is sufficient for you, for My power is perfected in weakness.” Living It Out Daily • Start each day affirming God’s rule over every situation. • Search Scripture for promises that speak directly to your current struggle. • Speak those truths aloud when fear rises. • Act in faith, even when outcomes are unseen. • Celebrate each incremental victory as proof that no opposition is insurmountable when God leads the charge. |
    |