What can we learn from Joshua's faithfulness in executing God's instructions? Setting the Scene • “And Joshua did to them as the LORD had commanded him: he hamstrung their horses and burned their chariots.” (Joshua 11:9) • The northern coalition’s war-horses and iron chariots were the cutting-edge military technology of the day (Joshua 11:4). • God told Joshua to cripple and burn them instead of adding them to Israel’s arsenal—an order that ran counter to human logic and military prudence. Lessons from Joshua’s Exact Obedience • Wholehearted compliance – Joshua “did … as the LORD had commanded,” not partially or selectively (compare Numbers 14:40-45; 1 Samuel 15:22-23). • Immediate action – The verse portrays no debate or delay. Swift obedience honors God’s authority (Psalm 119:60). • Complete execution – Horses hamstrung, chariots burned—nothing usable remained. God’s instructions were followed to the letter (Joshua 8:2, 27 for a contrasting allowance). Faith Over Human Strategy • Rejecting worldly security – Horses and chariots symbolized strength (Psalm 20:7; Isaiah 31:1). By destroying them, Joshua declared, “Our victory rests on the LORD alone.” • Trusting the unseen plan – “Trust in the LORD with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding” (Proverbs 3:5-6). • Guarding against future compromise – God had warned Israel’s kings not to multiply horses lest their hearts turn back to Egypt (Deuteronomy 17:16). Joshua’s obedience protected the nation from drifting into self-reliance. Motivations Underneath the Action • Reverence for God’s Word—Joshua knew every command is wise and good, whether or not it makes sense in the moment. • Humility—he refused to improve on God’s plan or claim credit through superior weaponry. • Stewardship—doing things God’s way preserves spiritual integrity and assures long-term blessing (Joshua 11:23). Practical Takeaways for Today • Obey promptly even when instructions seem counterintuitive. • Remove sources of misplaced confidence; rely on God rather than human resources or techniques. • Finish the task; partial obedience breeds lingering temptation. • Cultivate a habit of listening carefully to Scripture and responding without reservation (John 14:15; James 1:22-25). Encouragement for Faithful Walkers • God’s faithfulness follows obedience—Joshua enjoyed rest in the land (Joshua 21:43-45). • The Master still says, “Well done, good and faithful servant” to those who act on His word (Matthew 25:21). • Our unwavering obedience, like Joshua’s, showcases the power and reliability of the Lord before a watching world. |
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