Why is it important to remember victories God has given, as seen in Joshua 12:1? Reading the Verse: Joshua 12:1 “Now these are the kings of the land whom the Israelites defeated and whose land they took possession of east of the Jordan, from the Arnon River to Mount Hermon, including all the Arabah eastward.” Noticing What God Chose to Record • God pauses Joshua’s fast-moving narrative to list conquered kings—He wants the victories documented. • The verse functions like a memorial stone in writing, rooting Israel’s future security in God’s past acts. The Pattern of Remembrance in Scripture • Exodus 12:14—Israel must keep Passover “as a memorial.” • Deuteronomy 8:2—“Remember that the LORD your God led you all the way.” • 1 Samuel 7:12—Samuel sets up Ebenezer, saying, “Thus far the LORD has helped us.” • Psalm 103:2—“Bless the LORD, O my soul, and do not forget all His benefits.” • Revelation 12:11—Believers overcome “by the blood of the Lamb and by the word of their testimony.” Why Rehearsing God’s Victories Matters Today • Strengthens faith—Past deliverances become evidence that He will act again (Psalm 77:11). • Guards against pride—The list in Joshua reminds Israel that success came from God, not military genius (Deuteronomy 9:4-5). • Fuels worship—Remembered victories spark fresh gratitude (Psalm 95:1-3). • Shapes identity—God’s people are defined by what He has done for them, not by surrounding cultures. • Arms us for battle—Recalled victories silence fear when new giants appear (1 Samuel 17:37). • Teaches the next generation—Written records like Joshua 12 hand the story to children not yet born (Psalm 78:4). Cementing the Memory: Practical Ways to Remember • Keep a written journal of answered prayers and provisions. • Mark physical reminders—stones, dates in a Bible margin, family traditions. • Testify verbally—retell God’s interventions at meals, holidays, small groups. • Sing Scripture-saturated songs that recount His deeds (Colossians 3:16). • Review the record regularly—set calendar reminders to revisit journals and Scripture lists. Closing Encouragement Joshua 12:1 stands as proof that God Himself values a detailed record of triumphs. Catalog your own “kings defeated” so every future challenge is met with the confidence that “the LORD who has helped will help again.” |
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