How can Joshua 12:4 inspire us to trust God in our battles? Setting the Scene of Joshua 12:4 “ … and Og king of Bashan, one of the remnant of the Rephaim, who reigned in Ashtaroth and Edrei.” – Joshua 12:4 Joshua 12 lists every king God had already defeated for Israel. Og’s name appears to remind the people—and us—of a victory that only the Lord could accomplish. What Made Og So Intimidating? • Physically overwhelming: “His bedstead—an iron bedstead—is nine cubits long and four cubits wide” (about 13½ × 6 ft), Deuteronomy 3:11. • Militarily entrenched: He ruled two strong cities, Ashtaroth and Edrei. • Spiritually dark: As one of the last Rephaim (giants), he embodied opposition to God’s people (Numbers 21:33-35). • Humanly unbeatable—yet God told Moses, “Do not fear him, for I have delivered him into your hand” (Numbers 21:34). God’s Triumph Then: Fuel for Our Trust Now • God specializes in foes too large for us. If He toppled a giant king, He can handle any challenge we face (Psalm 136:19-20). • The victory was total, leaving no remnant of threat (Joshua 12:6). Our battles are ultimately His, and His wins are decisive (1 Samuel 17:47). • Og’s defeat became a permanent faith-marker, recounted for generations (Psalm 135:10-12). Remembering God’s past faithfulness strengthens present trust. Practical Ways to Live This Trust Today 1. Rehearse God’s track record – Keep a written or mental list of personal “Og moments” where the Lord has already shown up. 2. Face battles with God’s Word – Speak promises like Isaiah 41:10 and Romans 8:37 when fear rises. 3. Step forward in obedience, not paralysis – Israel still had to march toward Og; obedience unlocks God’s deliverance (James 2:17). 4. Put on the whole armor of God (Ephesians 6:10-18) – Spiritual battles are won when clad in truth, righteousness, and prayer. 5. Celebrate victories publicly – Share testimonies so others learn to trust Him with their battles (Revelation 12:11). Key Takeaways to Remember • No enemy is too big when the Lord fights for us. • God’s past victories guarantee His future faithfulness. • Trust grows by remembering, obeying, and proclaiming what He has already done. |
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