In what ways does Joshua 9:10 encourage reliance on God's guidance today? Setting the Stage “and all that He did to the two kings of the Amorites east of the Jordan— to Sihon king of Heshbon and Og king of Bashan, who reigned in Ashtaroth.” (Joshua 9:10) What the Verse Shows about God’s Guidance • God’s past acts were factual, public, and unforgettable; even pagan nations acknowledged them. • His guidance was not vague inspiration but concrete direction that toppled specific kings at specific places. • Because the Lord Himself fought, Israel only had to follow where He led. How This Encourages Our Reliance Today 1. History that Builds Present Confidence • Remembering real victories against Sihon and Og keeps us from treating guidance as abstract. • Psalm 77:11–12—“I will remember the deeds of the LORD…” reminds us to rehearse the same track record. 2. Witness from Outsiders • Even the Gibeonites knew God was directing Israel. • When unbelievers notice God steering His people (Acts 16:25–30), it bolsters our trust that He still guides. 3. Proof of Sovereign Authority • The Lord overthrew two regional superpowers. Nothing in modern life outranks Him either (Jeremiah 32:27). • His guidance is therefore worth obeying without hesitation. 4. Assurance of Continued Leadership • Joshua’s generation could look back at Moses’ era and know the same hand was at work. • Hebrews 13:8—“Jesus Christ is the same yesterday and today and forever.” 5. Guarantee of Completion • Destroying Sihon and Og was part of a larger promise to give Israel the land (Exodus 3:8). • Philippians 1:6 applies the pattern: He finishes what He starts. Practical Ways to Lean on God’s Guidance Now • Review biblical history regularly; let concrete examples shape today’s decisions. • Keep a written record of personal answered prayers to trace His hand. • Filter choices through Scripture first (Psalm 119:105). • Ask for wisdom in prayer, believing He gives it generously (James 1:5). • Consult mature believers whose counsel rests on the Word (Proverbs 15:22). • Act promptly when direction becomes clear; delayed obedience invites pitfalls (Luke 6:46–49). • Stay alert for how God’s faithfulness is noticed by others; their observations often reaffirm His lead. Takeaway Because Joshua 9:10 records real, observable interventions, it invites us to trust the same unfailing Guide today—remembering what He has done, expecting Him to direct, and following without reserve. |
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