Our chapter is the first battle in the conquest of the Promised Land. It is a test in several ways. First, it must be taken as commanding Jericho will close the back door to any aggressors who may be so inclined when they turn their attention to the north later.
Second, it will send a signal to their other enemies they are more than capable to defeat them.
Third, and perhaps most important it will show once again the power of their God. Their God who defeated the two kings of the Amorites who were on the other side of the Jordan, Sihon and Og. Who held back the raging waters of the Jordan while they crossed on dry land. The God who had brought them out of slavery in Egypt and protected in the wilderness. These people whose God had not only defeated but destroyed the largest standing army in the land.
Now when the walls of Jericho come down and they walk in and destroy all the people and livestock all will take note of the God of the Israelites.
These account, and many more are the demonstrations of the power of the God whom we serve. Let these serve to embolden the people of God and humble to enemies of God’s people. When we learn to rely on God the world will know the Winning Principles of God’s people.
