What role does obedience play in achieving victory, as seen in Joshua 11:5? Setting the Scene “ All these kings joined forces; they came and encamped together at the waters of Merom to fight against Israel.” (Joshua 11:5) • A united coalition of northern Canaanite kings positions itself against Israel. • Israel faces overwhelming numbers, superior weaponry (horses and chariots), and a decisive battle moment. • The backdrop magnifies the necessity of something greater than military strategy—obedience to God’s word. God’s Clear Command “ Do not be afraid of them, for tomorrow at this time I will deliver them all slain before Israel. Hamstring their horses and burn up their chariots.” (Joshua 11:6) • The Lord gives a specific, time-bound promise. • He adds detailed instructions—hamstring the horses, burn the chariots—showing that victory must be won God’s way, not by adopting the enemy’s methods. • Obedience becomes the hinge on which the promise swings. Joshua’s Immediate Obedience “ So Joshua and his whole army came upon them suddenly at the waters of Merom and attacked them.” (Joshua 11:7) • No delay, no debate, no alternate plan. • Joshua’s swift action demonstrates trust in God’s word over visible circumstances. • Obedience is active faith; it moves when God speaks. The Resulting Victory “ The LORD delivered them into the hand of Israel, so that they defeated them and pursued them … until they left none remaining.” (Joshua 11:8) • God fulfills His promise precisely. • Israel’s triumph is total; the coalition is dismantled. • The outcome confirms that obedience is not mere duty—it is the God-ordained pathway to victory. Principles for Today • God still ties victory to obedience (Deuteronomy 28:1–2). • Fear subsides when God’s command becomes our marching order (Joshua 1:7–9). • Obedience shuts the door on compromise; it forces reliance on God rather than worldly resources (Psalm 20:7). • Delayed obedience risks forfeiting blessing; immediate obedience positions us to see God act (James 1:22). Scriptures That Echo the Same Truth • 1 Samuel 15:22—“To obey is better than sacrifice.” • John 14:15—“If you love Me, you will keep My commandments.” • 1 John 5:3—“His commandments are not burdensome.” • Hebrews 11:30—By faith (expressed in obedient circling) the walls of Jericho fell. • 2 Chronicles 20:20—“Believe in the LORD your God and you will be upheld; believe His prophets and you will succeed.” Take-away Applications • Measure every challenge by God’s promises, not by visible odds. • Act promptly on biblical directives, even when they run counter to human logic. • Remove any “horses and chariots” the flesh might trust in (self-reliance, worldly tactics). • Expect God-size results whenever obedience is wholehearted and immediate. |
    |