by Marilyn Ehle
“The Commander of the Lord’s Army (said), “Take off your sandals, for the place where you are standing is holy, march…blow trumpets, shout.” Joshua 5:15, 16
Armies are trained to be strategic. Secrecy regarding attack plans is crucial. Strange codes are regularly used to confuse the enemy.
We might be led therefore to believe that God’s instructions to Joshua are those of a militarily unschooled amateur: Take off your shoes? Carry a large holy box? March around the walled city seven days without attacking, thus warning the enemy of your army’s size?
But Joshua had spent long years as second-in-command to Moses who ”through trial and error” had learned to trust a God whose seemingly confusing orders nonetheless always produced the desired outcome.
Following obediently after God may mean a life different from what is the cultural norm. Choosing simplicity over extravagance seems anti-success in a society shouting, “What you have proves who you are.” Living humbly, seeking righteousness and justice, even mourning do not appear to be lifestyle habits of the rich and famous, but Jesus said those habits will bring blessing and deep satisfaction.
The outcome of Joshua’s obedience is two-fold: “The wall collapsed” and “the Lord was with Joshua.” When God gives direction that seems unusual, we are wise to be quiet before Him, look deeply into scripture and seek counsel from a wise community. What seems like impenetrable walls can be overcome by trust in and obedience to our Sovereign Commander.
Father, my skeptical nature often makes me doubt your orders. I wonder if you truly know me and my situation. My questions prove my lack of faith, but I want to trust you more.
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