What steps can we take to trust God's timing and plan like Joshua? The Setting: Hearts Melting Before God’s People “Now when all the Amorite kings west of the Jordan and all the Canaanite kings along the coast heard how the LORD had dried up the waters of the Jordan before the Israelites until they had crossed over, their hearts melted and their spirits failed for fear of the Israelites.” (Joshua 5:1) Step 1: Recognize God Is Already Working Upstream • Jericho’s kings were terrified before Israel ever lifted a sword. • Trust grows when we remember that God’s providence is active long before we see results (Romans 8:28). • “The LORD will fight for you; you need only to be still.” (Exodus 14:14) Step 2: Wait for God’s Signal • Instead of rushing into battle, Israel camped at Gilgal and obeyed the command to circumcise the new generation (Joshua 5:2-9). • Waiting is not wasted time; it is worshipful obedience that aligns us with His schedule (Psalm 27:14). Step 3: Rehearse God’s Track Record • Crossing the Jordan on dry ground echoed the Red Sea miracle. • Regularly recalling past deliverances reinforces present trust (Psalm 77:11-12). Step 4: Consecrate Yourself Afresh • Circumcision marked covenant identity. Today we set ourselves apart by wholehearted devotion and repentance (2 Corinthians 7:1). • Trust flourishes in a heart kept clean. Step 5: Feed on Covenant Promises • Israel celebrated Passover (Joshua 5:10). • In every season, nourish faith with the memorials of redemption—Scripture, communion, and shared testimonies (1 Corinthians 11:26). Step 6: Embrace New Seasons with Confidence • “The manna ceased the day after they ate the produce of the land.” (Joshua 5:12) • God may change His methods, but His care is constant (Lamentations 3:22-23). • Trust His timing when familiar provision stops and new avenues open. Step 7: Submit to the Commander of the LORD’s Army • Joshua bowed before the heavenly Commander (Joshua 5:13-15). • Surrendering our strategies to God’s authority keeps us from presumption (Proverbs 3:5-6). Step 8: Move Only When the Word Comes • After consecration, God revealed the Jericho plan (Joshua 6). • Obedience timed to His voice brings walls down (Hebrews 11:30). Living the Joshua Rhythm Recognize God’s hidden activity, wait for His cue, remember His works, consecrate yourself, feed on covenant truth, welcome new seasons, surrender to His leadership, and then move when He speaks. That rhythm trains our hearts to trust God’s timing and plan—just like Joshua. |
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