Why is it important to seek God's guidance as Joshua did in Joshua 10:16?

◄ Why seek God's guidance like Joshua? ►

The setting at Makkedah

“Now the five kings had fled and hidden in the cave at Makkedah.” (Joshua 10:16)

Joshua’s pattern of guidance

• Joshua 10:8 – “The LORD said to Joshua, ‘Do not be afraid of them…’ ”

• Joshua 10:12 – Joshua speaks to the LORD and the sun stands still.

• Joshua 10:16 – Because he has already sought God, the enemy kings are cornered without Israel’s loss.

• Contrast Joshua 9:14, where Israel “did not ask counsel from the LORD” and fell for the Gibeonite deception.

Why it matters to seek God’s guidance

• Assures alignment with God’s will

– Proverbs 3:5-6: “Trust in the LORD with all your heart… He will make your paths straight.”

• Brings supernatural help beyond human ability

– Psalm 20:7: “Some trust in chariots… but we trust in the name of the LORD our God.”

• Protects from avoidable mistakes

– Isaiah 30:1 warns of “plans that are not Mine.”

• Strengthens faith through answered direction

– 1 Samuel 17:37: David credits God for past deliverance, fueling future courage.

• Reveals God’s glory in impossible situations

– John 11:40: “Did I not tell you that if you believed, you would see the glory of God?”

• Confirms God’s constant presence

– Hebrews 13:5: “I will never leave you nor forsake you.”

Practical ways to seek God’s guidance

• Daily Scripture intake – Psalm 119:105

• Consistent prayer and listening – Jeremiah 33:3

• Obedience to known commands – John 14:21

• Wise counsel from mature believers – Proverbs 15:22

• Waiting for clear peace from the Spirit – Colossians 3:15

Living the lesson from Joshua 10:16

• When opposition feels overwhelming, remember God already sees the hidden “kings in the cave.”

• Victories secured in private communion with God become public testimonies of His power.

• Choose to pause and seek the Lord before every decision; the time taken in prayer saves far more time in battle.