Joshua 12 chronicles the list of kings (and therefore kingdoms or city-type communities) that were defeated by the Israelites in conquering the land. To keep these victories in perspective...there were no personnel carriers or helicopters to transport the troops. Everywhere they went...they walked. Also, we have covered the history of the battles in a few days and as many chapters...but Joshua's efforts to this point took place over the period of about seven years.
Josh 12:1-6 covers the victories that were obtained under Moses' leadership in the land East of the Jordan (That is usually to the right when you look at a map). This land was given by Moses to the tribes of Reuben, Gad and half the tribe of Manasseh (Josh 12:6). It covers much of modern day Syria, Lebanon, and Jordan.
Josh 12:7 picks up with Joshua's leadership. Josh 12:9 lists the victory at Jericho. This city is just north of the Dead Sea and West (to the left) of the Jordan River. Then to Ai (Josh 12:9) which is in the mountains/hills to the West (Left). His conquest yielded land far to the south and west of the Dead Sea (Josh 12:8, the Negev); and as far north as Mt. Hermon (40 or more miles North of the Sea of Galilee. It also included all of the land West to the Mediterranean Sea.
The point is: This was no small task and proved to be a great victory. God gave them possession of 31 different kingdoms. Here are a couple of observations:
There is no mention here of any losses. Yes, there was a defeat at Ai but in the end, it was marked as a victory. In like manner, there are many battles and skirmishes we encounter in our lives. Sometimes we dwell on the failures and miss out on the successes. This summary of the seven years of battles records only the victories.
The battles that were won were credited to the sons of Israel (Josh 12:1). Those victories under both Moses and Joshua are listed here. The only reason for this is because both Moses and Joshua were actors in the plan of God. The story is about God's fulfilled promise...notthe military or leadership abilities of Moses and Joshua. (I wonder how our story will be told...was it about us...or about the One who saved us and called us?)
Proverbs 4:25 is the takeaway for me. Living a life that honors God requires great focus and intentionality. It is a simple life...in that the decisions are not difficult. The key is to be focused on being tucked in right behind Jesus. We must stay focused with laser-sharp intensity, not being willing to be distracted and pulled to the left or the right. This is the key to godliness.
Grace,
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2 comments:
The amount of courage it took for Joshua to proceed with what GOD wanted was great. Physical battles are sometime easier than spiritual battles. In my life I have served in many campaigns during my time in the service; however, I was on a ship for most of them which you only see the people or affects from the planes coming back. Two points that stick out in my mind was when I was stationed on my first carrier I was welcomed by a flight deck fire on my catapult which we lost many people and equipment and on my last cruise on a carrier we had another flight deck fire where we lost several people. The point is that GOD is at work anywhere and has a plan. The ships crew came together to pray, give respect and reflect on the power of the LORD. Those that believed came together and thanked the LORD or his grace and blessings because we were not called home. Several came to know GOD through these actions. The battles Joshua and Moses fought were not necessarily for the purpose of over throwing the wicked as much as it was to strengthen the ones GOD chose. I believe that GOD’s plan was to show his might and faithfulness to his people through the conquering of the various armies. If we are faithful GOD will be faithful to fight our battles and we can be assured of victory, but it is only if we believe in him and stay faithful in all things to Him. GOD IS GREAT!
Bob
Chris,
You don't give a person much room for their choice of president. I did not choose by any of the listed options?
Bob
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