What can we learn about obedience from Joshua's actions in Joshua 11:21?

Setting the Scene

- God had promised Israel the whole land (Joshua 1:3).

- The Anakim, giants who intimidated earlier generations (Numbers 13:33), still occupied fortified hill country.

- Joshua faces them in Joshua 11:21, decades after Israel first feared them.

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Key Verse: Joshua 11:21

“At that time Joshua went and eliminated the Anakim from the hill country …”

“Joshua devoted them to destruction with their cities.”

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Lessons on Obedience

- Immediate action

• “At that time” — no delay once God’s command is clear (cf. Psalm 119:60).

- Complete obedience

• Joshua removed the Anakim “from … all the hill country,” leaving no pocket of rebellion.

• Half-measures invite future trouble (Judges 1:27-28).

- Courage grounded in God’s promise

• Earlier spies trembled (Numbers 13); Joshua now acts because God’s word overrides fear.

- Holiness over comfort

• Devoting the Anakim “to destruction” shows obedience that refuses compromise with evil (Deuteronomy 20:17).

- Obedience brings rest

• Clearing the land prepares Israel for the promised rest (Joshua 11:23; Hebrews 4:8-11).

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Scripture Echoes

- 1 Samuel 15:22 — “To obey is better than sacrifice …”

- John 14:15 — “If you love Me, you will keep My commandments.”

- Romans 1:5 — grace leads “to bring about obedience of faith among all nations.”

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Living It Out Today

- Identify your “Anakim” — persistent sins, fears, unhealthy alliances.

- Act promptly; delayed obedience is disobedience in slow motion.

- Aim for completeness; leave no corner of life unyielded to Christ.

- Draw courage from God’s unchanging promises (Hebrews 13:5-6).

- Remember: wholehearted obedience positions you to enjoy the full inheritance God intends.