This is Our Jericho

What happened in Jericho? Why Jericho? What is our Jericho? Why SEVEN days?

Joshua was given a divine assignment from God to lead God’s people on to the promised land. A land promised from God to the Israelites. Jericho was the first city conquered by Israel after crossing of Jordan River and occupying the promised land. In Joshua 5:13-6:23, the account was recorded. It details that Joshua was obedient to God’s instructions of commanding God’s children to march around the city of Jericho seven times QUIETLY. They were to march only once each six days, and then on the seventh day they had to march a total of seven times. Before each march the seven priests were to blow their trumpets and march with the ark of the covenant. After the last march, Joshua told them to blow the trumpets and shout to God! Then, the walls to Jericho fell flat, and the city was theirs.

Jericho was an obstacle to God’s promise for the Israelites. It was God’s reminder to His children that He was in control and that they needed to trust Him. That once again He would get them to where He needed them to be. It also serves as a reminder of God’s almighty power. Why they doubted God’s power after everything He had already done for them is always a mystery to us. The truth is we suffer the same stupidity. Jericho also shows that God is faithful to keep His promises no matter how long it may take. The Israelites were given Jericho to lead them to a new city and a new lesson that God was trying to teach them.

In the same manner, there is once again a “Jericho” in my family’s life. Jericho in the life of God’s children doesn’t have to be an actual city. It can represent a trial or interference from satan. As God’s children, we walk through many of these same obstacles. This week my Waylon suffered a sudden an unexpected stroke. As we suffer together as a family during this battle and horrific “Jericho”, we are reminded that once again like so many times before, God has proven to be faithful. We will put our hope and trust in Him alone! We will watch as His almighty power knocks down this wall! And not just knock it down, but flatten it! Destroying any adversary that comes in the way of God’s perfect will for our lives. Putting satan in his place. For we are God’s children and no matter what happens we will stand for God! Giving God all the glory and praise.

Why SEVEN? Seven in the bible is a number that not only represents perfection, but it means sacrifice and completion. It is set apart for a perfect blessing from God. So, on the seventh day, Joshua rose up early! (Here I am up at four again God. This is my third morning.)The seven priests with their trumpets and the ark blew their trumpets continuously! They did this six days and then on the last day, they marched seven times! I know it is hard to wait and it is tiring. But God promises that if we wait on Him, we shall mount up on wings of eagles! We shall run and not grow weary! We shall walk and not grow faint (Isaiah 40:31). They were obedient and they waited. Then, Joshua commanded them to do as God said and blow the trumpets and SHOUT to God. When they did this the walls fell down! Once again showing that obedience and trust in God brings forth His perfect blessing. God gave them their Jericho. It was no longer an obstacle, but a learning experience to look back on.

Just like the Israelites, God will help us knock down another Jericho. We will get through this battle and God will get all the glory! So, as you walk through life and as you face your own “Jericho” remember God’s faithfulness and power. Remember all the times God has been there for you. Leave all the anger, frustration, and despair behind and look forward. Accept His will no matter the sacrifice or cost. Because soon and very soon, our God will deliver us! Amen!

Dear God, thank you so much for Your word today. Thank you another early morning with You. Help us to rely and trust that You know what is best in our lives. You know every Jericho we will face and the outcome. You promise that You will walk with us before, through, and after them. We praise You continuously today and every day. Love, Me.