| Series | Readings in Joshua |
|---|---|
| Theme | 1. Into the Promised land - Aga'i atu i le nu'u folafolaina |
| Colour | Lanu Pa’epa’e |
Scripture Focus: Iosua 6:15-27
On the seventh day, they rose early at the dawning of the day, and marched around the city in the same way seven times. Only on this day they marched around the city seven times. At the seventh time, when the priests blew the trumpets, Joshua said to the people, “Shout, for Yahweh has given you the city! The city shall be devoted, even it and all that is in it, to Yahweh. Only Rahab the prostitute shall live, she and all who are with her in the house, because she hid the messengers that we sent. But as for you, only keep yourselves from the devoted thing, lest when you have devoted it, you take of the devoted thing; so would you make the camp of Israel accursed, and trouble it. But all the silver, and gold, and vessels of brass and iron, are holy to Yahweh. They shall come into Yahweh’s treasury.” So the people shouted, and the priests blew the trumpets. When the people heard the sound of the trumpet, the people shouted with a great shout, and the wall fell down flat, so that the people went up into the city, every man straight before him, and they took the city. They utterly destroyed all that was in the city, both man and woman, both young and old, and ox, and sheep, and donkey, with the edge of the sword. Joshua said to the two men who had spied out the land, “Go into the prostitute’s house, and bring out from there the woman and all that she has, as you swore to her.” The young men who were spies went in, and brought out Rahab with her father, her mother, her brothers, and all that she had. They also brought out all her relatives, and they set them outside of the camp of Israel. They burnt the city with fire, and all that was in it. Only they put the silver, the gold, and the vessels of brass and of iron into the treasury of Yahweh’s house. But Rahab the prostitute, her father’s household, and all that she had, Joshua saved alive. She lived in the midst of Israel to this day, because she hid the messengers, whom Joshua sent to spy out Jericho. Joshua commanded them with an oath at that time, saying, “Cursed is the man before Yahweh, who rises up and builds this city Jericho. With the loss of his firstborn shall he lay its foundation, and with the loss of his youngest son shall he set up its gates.” So Yahweh was with Joshua; and his fame was in all the land.
- Joshua 6:15-27 (WEB)
Study:
This passage from Joshua chapter 6 recounts the miraculous fall of Jericho, a pivotal moment in Israel’s entry into the Promised Land. The Israelites obediently follow God’s instructions as they march around the city, culminating in a powerful shout that brings down the city walls. This event is a testament to God’s faithfulness in keeping His promises to His people. Rahab, though an outsider and a prostitute, is spared because of her faith and protection of Israel’s spies, signaling that God’s mercy extends beyond Israel to those who trust Him. The consecration of the city and its valuables to the Lord emphasizes God’s holiness and sovereign ownership. Joshua’s leadership, empowered by God’s presence, sets the tone for Israel’s conquest and settlement.
Application:
Like the Israelites, we are called to trust and obey God’s word even when the path seems unusual or challenging. The story reminds us that God is wholly faithful to keep His promises, and His plans will prevail. Rahab’s example encourages us that faith and obedience open the door for God’s grace, regardless of our past or background. We should consecrate our lives wholly to God, recognizing that everything we have belongs to Him. In our daily walk, we can rely on God’s power and presence, just as Joshua did, facing life’s battles with confidence in God’s leading and protection.
Reflection Questions:
- In what areas of your life is God calling you to trust Him more fully?
- How can Rahab’s story of faith inspire you to step out despite your past?
- What does it mean for you to consecrate your possessions and yourself to God?
- How does God’s faithfulness in Joshua’s story strengthen your confidence in His promises?
- How can you demonstrate obedience to God in everyday challenges?
Prayer:
Heavenly Father, thank You for Your faithful promise-keeping and power. Help us to trust and obey You wholeheartedly, just as Joshua and Rahab did. Teach us to consecrate our lives and all we have to Your service. Strengthen our faith to rely on Your guidance and protection in every situation. May Your name be glorified through our obedience and trust in You. Amen.
Tags: Joshua, Promise, Faithfulness, Obedience, Trust in God, Rahab, Jericho, Christian Devotion, Bible Study, God's Promises