“You shall march around the city, all you men of war; you shall go all around the city once. This you shall do six days . . . But the seventh day you shall march around the city seven times, and the priests shall blow the trumpets.” (Joshua 6:3-4, NKJV)
One of the most familiar Old Testament stories is that of the battle of Jericho. Although we refer to it a battle, Israel did not follow a typical battle plan or use regular weapons of war. The victory at Jericho is a story of people marching, trumpets blowing, and walls falling. It involves obedience, faith, and determination.
When the children of Israel crossed over the Jordan River into the Promised Land, they camped on the east side of Jericho. This was a city with strong, double walls, springs of water, and an adequate food supply. The city was a fertile oasis surrounded by desert. Its inhabitants were well situated to defend themselves against any attack, but they were afraid.
THE SILENT ARMY
The people of Jericho had already heard how God had miraculously dried up the waters of the Jordan River to allow the Israelites to cross over. Joshua 5:1 says that “their heart melted; and there was no spirit in them any longer because of the children of Israel.” Now those same people were outside Jericho’s city walls, a silent assembly of men of war and priests. Just marching — day after day after day! It was unnerving.
Joshua and the men of Israel marched around those strong, solid walls without any visible sign that God’s plan was working. The people of Jericho continued to watch from behind the safety of those walls. The action — or lack of action — of the Israelites was puzzling. Just complete silence as the priests and men of war walked around their city. Once each day for six days the Israelites silently circled the city and then returned to their camp.
Then, at dawn on the seventh day, their routine changed. The Israelites did not stop after their first circle of the city. They marched around again . . . and again. This change in behavior no doubt frightened those watching even more. As they completed their seventh circle, trumpets blew, shouts broke the silence, and the walls fell down flat (Joshua 6:20). The Israelites walked into the city unhindered. They had obeyed God’s instructions and He gave the victory.
OBEDIENCE BRINGS VICTORY
God could have brought down the walls of Jericho on day one, day two, or any other day that week. He had the power to do so. Yet He waited. The Israelites could have grown impatient as they circled day after day, wondering why God’s deliverance was taking so long. But God had given them precise instructions, and they chose to remain obedient to His plan.
Someone once wisely stated that, “Obedience brings down what strength cannot.”
“By faith the walls of Jericho fell down after they were encircled for seven days.” (Hebrews 11:30, NKJV)
LESSONS FOR US TODAY
The story of Jericho’s defeat teaches us important lessons for our own lives. Although we may not always understand God’s plan of action, we must never give up. We may feel we are just walking in circles and nothing is happening, but obedience to God’s plan brings victory.
Here are a few key things to remember:
- Obedience matters. Just follow God’s plan.
- The answer may not come immediately. Keep believing.
- Faith requires perseverance. Don’t give up.
- We are not sufficient on our own. We need God’s help.
- God keeps His promises. Wait patiently.
- There is power in silence. Listen for His voice in the quiet.
Whatever battle you may be facing today, trust God to give you victory. He can break down strong walls and clear your path. Nothing is impossible with God. He is “able to do exceedingly abundantly above all that we ask or think” (Ephesians 3:20, NKJV).
PERSONAL REFLECTION
- Does your faith sometimes falter while waiting for an answer from the Lord?
- Has God ever answered your prayers in unusual or unexpected ways?
- How can you use your testimony to encourage others who face difficult circumstances?
A HISTORICAL NOTE
Archeologists exploring the site of ancient Jericho discovered that a small portion of the lower city wall had not collapsed as had other parts of the wall. Also, houses had been built against the wall in that area. Perhaps this is where the house of Rahab stood. Her story is found in Joshua chapter two. She is also mentioned in Hebrews 11:31 and James 2:25.)
Devotion by Mary Loudermilk
