What lessons can we learn from Israel's victory over Sihon and Og? Setting the Scene: Deuteronomy 29:7 “When you reached this place, Sihon king of Heshbon and Og king of Bashan came out against us for battle, but we defeated them.” Lesson 1 – God Keeps His Promises • Centuries earlier, the LORD swore the land to Abraham (Genesis 15:18-21). • By conquering Sihon and Og, the eastern side of the Jordan was secured, proving God’s promise was no empty pledge (Joshua 21:45). • Our takeaway: every word God speaks stands firm (Isaiah 55:11). Lesson 2 – No Enemy Is Too Big for the LORD • Og ruled over Bashan and was “the last of the remnant of the Rephaim; his bed was… thirteen and a half feet long” (Deuteronomy 3:11). • Matters of size or strength do not intimidate God (1 Samuel 17:45-47). • When we face “giants” today—illness, opposition, uncertainty—we rest in the same victorious power (Romans 8:31). Lesson 3 – Obedience Opens the Way • Israel sought peaceful passage (Numbers 21:21-22). Sihon refused, so Israel obeyed God’s directive to engage (Deuteronomy 2:24-31). • Victory followed obedience, illustrating James 1:25: “the doer… will be blessed in what he does.” • Selective obedience stifles blessing; wholehearted obedience unlocks it. Lesson 4 – Past Victories Fuel Present Faith • Moses continually reminded the people of Sihon and Og (Deuteronomy 3:21-22; 29:7). • Remembered victories become living testimonies: – Psalm 136:17-22 praises God “who struck down great kings… Sihon… and Og.” – Rahab heard the report and her heart melted (Joshua 2:9-11). • Keep a record of God’s faithfulness; it strengthens courage for the next step. Lesson 5 – Judgment Against Persistent Rebellion • Both kings opposed Israel in spite of God’s clear plan (Deuteronomy 2:30). • Their defeat showcases divine justice (Psalm 96:13). • God is patient, yet persistent rebellion meets righteous judgment (Romans 2:5). Lesson 6 – Firstfruits of Inheritance • The tribes of Reuben, Gad, and half-Manasseh received these conquered lands (Numbers 32:33). • This down payment of territory guaranteed more to come west of the Jordan (Ephesians 1:14’s principle of “deposit guaranteeing our inheritance”). • A foretaste today—answered prayers, victories over sin—assures believers of the full inheritance in Christ. Lesson 7 – God Equips Ordinary People for Extraordinary Tasks • Israel had been a nation of slaves forty years earlier; now they toppled fortified kingdoms. • 1 Corinthians 1:27—God chooses the weak to shame the strong. • Our competence comes from Him (2 Corinthians 3:5-6). Lesson 8 – The Same God Still Leads • “Do not be afraid of them, for the LORD your God Himself will fight for you.” (Deuteronomy 3:22) • Hebrews 13:8 anchors us: “Jesus Christ is the same yesterday and today and forever.” • As He fought for Israel against Sihon and Og, He stands with His people in every generation. Putting It All Together The victory over Sihon and Og shouts that God is faithful, powerful, just, and personal. Their story invites us to trust His promises, obey His voice, remember His past deeds, and step boldly into the inheritance prepared for all who follow Him. |
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