How can we prepare ourselves for spiritual battles like the Israelites did? Setting the Scene: Israel on the Brink of Battle “About forty thousand armed for battle crossed over before the LORD to the plains of Jericho.” (Joshua 4:13) Key Observations from Joshua 4:13 • Counted—intentional readiness • Armed—practical preparation • Before the LORD—spiritual submission • Toward Jericho—courageous advance Preparing the Heart: Consecration before Confrontation • Obey Joshua 3:5—personal holiness • Practice daily repentance (1 John 1:9) • Present bodies as living sacrifices (Romans 12:1) Anchoring on God’s Presence • Ark first (Joshua 3:3–4) → Abide in Christ (John 15:4) • Stay Spirit-filled (Ephesians 5:18) • Keep Scripture central (Hebrews 4:12) Carrying Memorial Stones: Remembering Victories Past • Twelve stones (Joshua 4:6–7) • Journal answered prayer • Celebrate Communion (Luke 22:19) • Share testimonies (Revelation 12:11) Marching Together: Unity and Order • Tribes kept their promise (Joshua 1:16–18) • Stand together (Philippians 1:27) • Encourage daily (Hebrews 3:13) Putting on Our Armor Today “Take up the full armor of God” (Ephesians 6:13) • Belt—truth • Breastplate—righteousness • Shoes—gospel readiness • Shield—faith • Helmet—salvation • Sword—Word of God • Prayer—in the Spirit Walking Forward in Obedience and Faith • Act while the river is open (James 2:22) • Share the gospel (Colossians 4:3) • Serve and give (Galatians 5:13; 2 Corinthians 9:8) Living Memorials: Testimony as a Weapon • Shine blamelessly (Philippians 2:15) • Speak of hope (1 Peter 3:15) Summary Checklist for Readiness ☑ Consecrate daily ☑ Keep God central ☑ Remember past victories ☑ Stand in unity ☑ Wear full armor ☑ Obey promptly ☑ Testify continually |
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