SAY WHAT? (What is the passage saying?)
- This chapter lists the 31 kings that Joshua and his forces successfully defeated.
- Verses 1-6 also mention battles the Israelites won when they were under the leadership of Joshua's predecessor, Moses. Moses provided a great foundation on which Joshua was able to build.
SO WHAT? (What are the underlying principles?)
- Like Moses, we are all laying a foundation that others -- "Joshuas" -- will build on.
- This chapter lists victories God helped Joshua wins. Likewise, it's good for us to keep a list of the ways God has helped us. In the heat of battle, when we're facing a discouraging situation, we can find encouragement by looking back on what God has done in the past.
NOW WHAT? (How will you personally apply this passage?)
- If you're a parent, your kids are your Joshuas. How can you raise them to love God, love people, and turn the world upside-down? Could you find small ways to become more intentional about this, maybe by reading the Bible with them for a few minutes every day, or taking them to church more often, or initiating more conversations about God? Start making those changes this week.
- If you're someone who has given your life to God, take time today to write down 4 or 5 ways he has helped you. Add to this throughout the week to develop your own list of victories you can look back on when you're discouraged.
