Joshua was given the task of possessing the Promised Land. It was a task in which the existing inhabitants must be evicted, defeated, and scattered. Now, watching the progress of Israel in the Promised Land, five kings made an alliance and wanted to defeat Israel. In this context, the Lord encourages Joshua. “And the Lord said to Joshua, ‘Do not fear them, for I have given them into your hands. Not a man of them shall stand before you.” (Joshua 10:8). Three practical implications are evident in this Promise of God.
Do not fear them:
This was not just an assurance or encouragement, but a commandment. Joshua had reason to fear as the enemies had a formidable formation of five armies coming together. The Lord commanded Joshua not to fear the enemies. Fear is an enemy of faith. Fear could eclipse faith in a believer’s life. Fear paralyses a person and makes him unfit for warfare.
I have given them:
The Sovereign God of Heaven and earth could give any nation or king to another. However, he does this with righteousness, holiness, and to fulfil His glorious and eternal purpose. The Lord is the God of history and geography. Joshua need not fear, because God has delivered or handed over his enemies to him.
No one could stand before you:
Since God is with Joshua, no man could stand in opposition to him. The person who is opposing Joshua would be fighting against God. No person can win against God. Paul writes that we are more than conquerors in Christ. (Romans 8:37) The gates of hell cannot prevail against the church. (Matthew 16:18)
The Great Commission
As God had given Joshua the commission to possess the Promised Land, He has commissioned the Church to take the gospel to all creation. (Matthew 28:18-20) First, the Church should not be afraid of the world, its enormity, complexity, and wickedness. Second, the Church should move forward from the position of victory to possess the whole world. Third, those who fight against God will perish. (Matthew 21:44)
Am I boldly engaged in the Great Commission?