Joshua

Joshua: Trusting the God Who Fulfills His Promises

Session 1: The God Who Goes Before Us — Joshua 1–2

— Study Notes — Discussion Handout — Audio Essay

Title: "Be Strong and Courageous"
Focus Statement: God commissions Joshua and protects the spies through Rahab's unexpected faith.
Purpose Statement: To trust that God leads us with courage and works through unexpected people to fulfill His promises.

What to Look For

Watch how God gives Joshua the same promise three times in chapter 1. Notice how God protects the spies even before they enter the Promised Land. See how God uses Rahab, someone you would not expect, to help His people.

Personal Reflection Questions

When you moved to a new home or started a new job, what helped you feel brave about the change?

Can you think of a time when someone unexpected became a good friend or helper in your life?

Read — Joshua 1–2

Overview

Moving into something new can feel scary at any age. Joshua faced the huge job of leading God's people into a land full of enemies. Just like we might worry about health changes, family moves, or new seasons of life, Joshua needed to know God would be with him. This story shows us that God goes ahead of us and prepares the way, even using surprising people to help us along the journey.

This May Surprise You

Rahab was not an Israelite and worked as a prostitute, yet God chose to use her to save His people. Some people think God only works through "good" church people, but this story shows God can work through anyone. Rahab became part of Jesus' family tree, mentioned in Matthew 1:5. God sees the heart and uses people we might never expect.

Seeds for Thought

Point 1: God promises to be with Joshua just like He was with Moses (Joshua 1:5)
Comment: God does not leave us to face new challenges alone. When one season ends, God's presence continues into the next season.

Point 2: God tells Joshua to be strong and courageous three times (Joshua 1:6, 7, 9)
Comment: Repetition in the Bible means something is very important. God knew Joshua would need courage, so He kept reminding him. We need the same reminders today.

Point 3: God's law should guide Joshua's decisions (Joshua 1:8)
Comment: Success comes from following God's ways, not just from being smart or strong. God's word gives us wisdom for every situation.

Point 4: The spies found help in an unexpected place (Joshua 2:1-7)
Comment: God had already prepared Rahab's heart before the spies arrived. God often works behind the scenes to help us in ways we cannot see.

Point 5: Rahab recognized God's power and chose to help His people (Joshua 2:8-13)
Comment: Even people far from God can see His power at work. Rahab's faith saved her whole family, showing that God welcomes anyone who turns to Him.

Take-Home Thought

God's plan for Joshua started long before Joshua knew about it. While Joshua was learning to lead under Moses, God was preparing his heart. While the Israelites wandered in the desert, God was preparing the Promised Land. Even while they were still slaves in Egypt, God was working on Rahab's heart in Jericho.

This teaches us that God is always working ahead of us. When we face new seasons in life - retirement, health changes, family transitions, or loss - we can trust that God has gone before us. He is already preparing the way and the people we will need. Our job is to be strong and courageous, knowing that the same God who kept His promises to Joshua will keep His promises to us.

Quotes

Charles Spurgeon: "God is too good to be unkind and He is too wise to be mistaken. And when we cannot trace His hand, we must trust His heart."

Warren Wiersbe: "Courage is not the absence of fear; it is going ahead in spite of your fears. Joshua was afraid, but he trusted God and obeyed His word."

Biblical Connections

"Be strong and courageous" echoes Moses' words in Deuteronomy 31:6, 7, 23

"I will never leave you nor forsake you" (Joshua 1:5) quotes Deuteronomy 31:6

Rahab's faith connects to Hebrews 11:31 and James 2:25 in the New Testament

The scarlet cord (Joshua 2:18) reminds us of the Passover blood in Exodus 12

Meditation on God's law (Joshua 1:8) connects to Psalm 1:2

How Does This Help Me Trust God Today?

Just like Joshua, we face times when we must step into something new and unknown. Maybe it is dealing with health problems, losing a spouse, moving to assisted living, or watching grown children struggle. This passage reminds us that God goes before us into every new season. He has already prepared what we need, including people who will help us along the way. When God says "be strong and courageous," He is not asking us to be brave in our own strength. He is reminding us that His strength and presence make courage possible. We can face tomorrow because God is already there waiting for us.

Devotional Thought

Sometimes life feels like walking into an unknown land with only God’s word to guide you. Joshua knew that feeling. He had watched Moses lead for decades, but now the task was his. God’s words were simple: “Be strong and courageous… for the Lord your God will be with you wherever you go” (Joshua 1:9, NIV).

I think of it like an old footpath across a meadow. You’ve walked it before, but now the grass has grown tall. You can’t see every step ahead, yet you know where it leads because you’ve been there with a trusted guide. God was that guide for Joshua. He is that guide for us, too.

Rahab’s story reminds us that God often works through people we wouldn’t expect. As Charles Spurgeon once said, “God is not limited by our weakness, nor hindered by our past.” Rahab’s courage saved lives and changed history, not because she had all the answers, but because she trusted the God she had only just begun to know.

The same God goes before us today. Even when our steps feel uncertain, His promises remain sure.

Culture Connection

We live in a world that prizes independence and self-reliance, yet anxiety and uncertainty seem to grow each year. Joshua’s commission reminds us that real strength comes not from our own ability but from God’s presence. In a culture that often writes people off based on their past or their status, Rahab’s faith shows that God’s plans can unfold through the least expected hands. This challenges us to look beyond appearances and trust that God is still going ahead of us, arranging help and hope in ways we may never see until later.

Session 2: When God Makes a Way — Joshua 3–4

— Study Notes — Discussion Handout — Audio Essay

Title: "Crossing Over"
Focus Statement: God miraculously leads His people across the Jordan and calls them to remember.
Purpose Statement: To deepen trust in God's ability to make a way and the importance of remembering His faithfulness.

What to Look For

Notice how God stops a rushing river at flood season. Watch how the priests had to step into the water first before God acted. See how God tells them to build a memorial so future generations will remember what He did.

Personal Reflection Questions

What family story or memory do you love to tell your grandchildren about how God helped your family?

When you face something that seems impossible, what past experience with God helps you trust Him?

Read — Joshua 3–4

Overview

Sometimes life feels like standing at the edge of a rushing river with no bridge in sight. The Israelites faced the Jordan River at flood season when crossing seemed impossible. But God specializes in making ways where there is no way. Today we still face situations that look impossible - serious illness, financial struggles, family problems, or grief that feels too deep. This passage shows us that our God is still in the business of opening paths through our deepest waters.

This May Surprise You

The Jordan River was at flood stage during harvest season, making it much wider and more dangerous than normal. God could have waited for a better time when the water was low, but He chose the hardest moment to show His power. Sometimes God allows us to face our biggest challenges when everything else is also difficult. This is not punishment - it is God showing that His power works best when our situation looks most hopeless.

Seeds for Thought

Point 1: The priests carrying the ark had to step into the water first (Joshua 3:13-15)
Comment: God often asks us to take the first step of faith before we see how He will work. The miracle happened when their feet touched the water, not before.

Point 2: God held back the river while everyone crossed safely (Joshua 3:16-17)
Comment: God did not just make a narrow path - He held back all the water until every person crossed. God's protection covers everyone, not just the leaders or the strong ones.

Point 3: Twelve stones were taken from the riverbed as a memorial (Joshua 4:1-7)
Comment: God wanted a permanent reminder of what He did. These stones came from the place where the miracle happened, making the memorial extra special.

Point 4: The memorial was for future generations to see and ask questions (Joshua 4:6-7, 21-24)
Comment: God knows that people forget His goodness over time. The stones would help parents tell their children and grandchildren about God's power.

Point 5: God honored Joshua as the new leader through this miracle (Joshua 4:14)
Comment: The people saw that the same God who worked through Moses was now working through Joshua. This gave them confidence in Joshua's leadership.

Take-Home Thought

God did not part the Jordan River just to show off His power. He did it to teach His people that He makes ways where there seems to be no way. But notice something important - after the miracle, God told them to remember it. The stones were not just for decoration. They were reminders that the God who dried up the Jordan is the same God who will help them face the next impossible situation.

We need our own pile of stones. Maybe it is a photo that reminds us of God's healing, a letter that shows how God provided, or a journal entry about answered prayer. When new rivers block our path, we can look at our pile of memories and remember - the God who made a way before will make a way again. His power has not grown weaker. His love has not grown smaller. The same God who held back the waters is holding us today.

Quotes

J.I. Packer: "The gift of memory is a sacred trust. God has given us the ability to remember His faithfulness so that we can face the future with confidence."

A.W. Tozer: "God never hurries. There are no deadlines against which He must work. Only to know this is to quiet our spirits and relax our nerves."

Biblical Connections

Crossing the Jordan echoes the Red Sea crossing in Exodus 14

The ark going before the people connects to God's presence leading them in the wilderness (Exodus 40:36-38)

Memorial stones similar to altars built by Abraham (Genesis 12:7), Jacob (Genesis 28:18), and Moses (Exodus 17:15)

"Tell your children" echoes the Passover instructions in Exodus 12:26-27

God's mighty hand (Joshua 4:24) connects to the plagues in Egypt (Exodus 6:1)

How Does This Help Me Trust God Today?

Life often brings us to our own Jordan Rivers - times when the path forward looks impossible. Maybe it is a medical diagnosis, losing a spouse, financial pressure, or watching adult children make poor choices. This passage reminds us that God specializes in impossible situations. He does not always change our circumstances immediately, but He always makes a way through them. Like the priests, we may need to take that first step of faith before we see how God will work. And like the Israelites, we need to remember the times God has already made a way for us. Those memories become our pile of stones, reminding us that the God who helped us before is ready to help us again.

Devotional Thought

The Jordan River was at flood stage. The current was strong, the banks were overflowing, and there was no bridge in sight. Yet God told Joshua to lead the people across. The priests stepped forward carrying the ark of the covenant, and the moment their feet touched the water, the river stopped flowing. God made a way where there was no way.

Life often brings its own “Jordan Rivers”—obstacles too wide and too deep to cross on our own. Sometimes the hardest step is the first one, when the waters still seem wild. But God’s presence with His people means the path will open in His time.

When they reached the other side, Joshua had them stack twelve stones as a memorial. Years later, when children asked, “What do these stones mean?” parents could tell the story of God’s faithfulness. Warren Wiersbe once said, “God’s people have always needed to pause and remember, or else they forget and take His blessings for granted.”

Our lives can hold those “stones of remembrance,” too—moments when God came through for us. Remembering those times fuels courage for the next crossing.

Culture Connection

Today’s world moves quickly, and we rarely stop to reflect on where we’ve been or how far God has brought us. In a culture focused on the next goal, the next news story, or the next problem, Joshua 3–4 reminds us to mark the moments when God has made a way. Remembering is more than nostalgia—it shapes our faith for the future. Just as the Israelites’ stones told a story to future generations, our testimonies can point people to the God who still parts the waters.

Session 3: God at the Center — Joshua 5–6

— Study Notes — Discussion Handout — Audio Essay

Title: "The Commander of the Lord's Army"
Focus Statement: God calls for worship, obedience, and trust before Jericho falls by His power.
Purpose Statement: To recognize that victory comes when God leads and we follow in faith-filled obedience.

What to Look For

Watch how God asks the people to worship Him before the battle begins. Notice the strange battle plan God gives for taking Jericho. See how the walls fall down by God's power, not by human weapons.

Personal Reflection Questions

When you face a big problem, what helps you remember to pray first before trying to solve it yourself?

Has God ever asked you to do something that seemed unusual or different from what others expected?

Read — Joshua 5–6

Overview

We live in a world that says "God helps those who help themselves." But that saying is not in the Bible. Joshua 5-6 shows us a different way - God helps those who put Him first and follow His plan, even when His plan seems strange. Before facing the mighty walls of Jericho, God had His people stop for worship and listen for His battle plan. The victory came through obedience, not through military might. This teaches us that our biggest battles are won on our knees before they are won in our daily lives.

This May Surprise You

The mysterious figure who met Joshua was not just an angel - He was the Commander of the Lord's Army, likely Jesus before His earthly birth. Joshua fell on his face and worshiped Him, and this Commander accepted the worship. Angels in the Bible always tell people not to worship them, but this Commander let Joshua worship. This shows that even before Bethlehem, Jesus was actively leading God's people into victory.

Seeds for Thought

Point 1: God required circumcision and Passover before the battle (Joshua 5:2-10)
Comment: God wanted His people to remember their covenant relationship with Him before facing their enemies. Worship and remembrance come before warfare.

Point 2: The Commander of the Lord's Army appeared to Joshua (Joshua 5:13-15)
Comment: God did not send Joshua into battle alone. The same presence that led Moses was now leading Joshua. We face our battles with Heaven's Commander on our side.

Point 3: God's battle plan seemed foolish to human thinking (Joshua 6:1-5)
Comment: March around the city for seven days? Blow trumpets and shout? This was not military strategy - it was a faith test. God's ways often look strange to the world.

Point 4: The people obeyed exactly as God commanded (Joshua 6:6-16)
Comment: They did not improve on God's plan or add their own ideas. Simple obedience brought supernatural results. God honors faith that trusts His methods completely.

Point 5: The walls fell by God's power, not human effort (Joshua 6:20)
Comment: No battering rams, no siege equipment, no climbing over walls. God brought down what seemed impossible to move. The victory belonged completely to Him.

Take-Home Thought

Jericho's walls looked impossible to break down. The city was famous for its thick, high walls that had protected it for centuries. But God specializes in bringing down walls that seem too strong for us. He still does this today, but notice the pattern from this story.

First comes worship. Before Joshua planned his attack, he met the Commander of God's army and fell on his face in worship. God wants our attention and reverence before He gives us victory. Second comes waiting for God's plan. The battle strategy came from Heaven, not from military experts. Third comes obedience, even when God's plan seems strange. Finally comes the victory that belongs completely to God.

What walls are you facing today? Maybe it is the wall of loneliness after losing your spouse. Maybe it is the wall of fear about your health. Maybe it is the wall of worry about your children or grandchildren. These walls can seem as strong as Jericho's, but they are not too strong for God. The same Commander who brought down Jericho's walls is ready to bring down the walls that block your peace and joy.

Quotes

Oswald Chambers: "The remarkable thing about God is that when you fear God, you fear nothing else, whereas if you do not fear God, you fear everything else."

D.L. Moody: "The Bible was not given for our information but for our transformation. God's methods may seem strange, but His results are always perfect."

Biblical Connections

The Commander of the Lord's Army connects to the Angel of the Lord appearances throughout the Old Testament (Genesis 16:7, Exodus 3:2)

Holy ground (Joshua 5:15) echoes Moses' experience at the burning bush (Exodus 3:5)

Circumcision renewal connects to God's covenant with Abraham (Genesis 17:10-14)

Passover celebration links back to the deliverance from Egypt (Exodus 12)

Walls falling by God's power foreshadows God's victory over all earthly kingdoms in Revelation 19:11-16

How Does This Help Me Trust God Today?

Life presents us with walls that seem impossible to break down - health problems that will not go away, relationships that seem beyond repair, fears that keep us awake at night, or grief that feels too heavy to bear. This passage teaches us that God still brings down walls, but His method has not changed. We start with worship, acknowledging that He is the Commander and we are not. We wait for His guidance instead of rushing ahead with our own plans. We obey His word even when it seems different from what the world suggests. Then we watch Him work in ways that can only be explained by His power. The walls in our lives are not too strong for the God who brought down Jericho.

Devotional Thought

Before Jericho’s walls came down, something unexpected happened—Joshua met the “Commander of the Lord’s Army.” Joshua’s first instinct was to ask, “Are you for us or for our enemies?” The answer pointed him to a greater truth: this wasn’t about God joining our plans, but us joining His.

God’s instructions for Jericho must have sounded unusual—march around the city once a day for six days, then seven times on the seventh day, blow the trumpets, and shout. No siege weapons, no battle strategy that made sense to human minds. Yet the people obeyed, and God brought the walls down.

It reminds me of A.W. Tozer’s words: “God is looking for people through whom He can do the impossible. What a pity we plan only the things we can do by ourselves.” Victory didn’t come because the people were strong, but because they worshiped first, obeyed completely, and trusted fully.

Sometimes God’s ways may seem slow or strange, but when He is at the center, the impossible becomes possible.

Culture Connection

Our culture values taking charge and “making things happen,” but Joshua’s encounter reminds us that lasting victories aren’t built on human strength alone. In an age of quick fixes and self-promotion, God still calls His people to place Him at the center—through worship that honors Him, obedience that trusts Him, and patience that waits for His timing. Jericho’s story challenges us to let God set the plan, even when His way looks nothing like ours.

Session 4: God’s Holiness and Our Renewal — Joshua 7–8

— Study Notes — Discussion Handout — Audio Essay

Title: "Failure and Renewal"
Focus Statement: Sin disrupts God's blessing, but repentance leads to restoration and victory.
Purpose Statement: To understand that God's holiness requires our honesty, and His grace restores us when we return.

What to Look For

See how one person's hidden sin affected the whole nation. Notice how God helps Joshua understand what went wrong. Watch how God gives them another chance and brings victory after they deal with the sin.

Personal Reflection Questions

When you made a mistake that hurt others, what helped you find the courage to make it right?

Have you experienced God's forgiveness after a time when you disappointed Him or yourself?

Read — Joshua 7–8

Overview

Nobody likes to talk about failure, especially in church. We prefer stories where everyone does the right thing and God blesses them. But Joshua 7-8 shows us real life - even God's people sometimes fail, and failure has consequences. The good news is that our God is not just holy but also gracious. When we honestly face our failures and return to Him, He does not throw us away. Instead, He restores us and gives us another chance to experience His victory.

This May Surprise You

God knew exactly what Achan had done and where he had hidden the stolen items, yet He led Joshua through a process to reveal the sin publicly. God could have just told Joshua "Achan did it," but instead He used a method that gave Achan multiple chances to confess. This shows that God's goal is not just punishment but restoration. Even when we fail, God works patiently to bring us back to Him.

Seeds for Thought

Point 1: Israel's defeat at Ai revealed hidden sin (Joshua 7:1-5)
Comment: Sometimes God allows difficulties in our lives to show us areas where we need His help. Problems are not always punishment, but they can be God's way of getting our attention.

Point 2: Joshua turned to God in prayer when things went wrong (Joshua 7:6-9)
Comment: Instead of blaming others or making excuses, Joshua fell on his face before God. When life does not go as planned, our first response should be prayer, not panic.

Point 3: God revealed the specific problem that needed to be addressed (Joshua 7:10-15)
Comment: God does not leave us guessing about what is wrong. Through His word, His Spirit, and wise counselors, He shows us what needs to change in our lives.

Point 4: The sin was dealt with completely before moving forward (Joshua 7:16-26)
Comment: God's holiness means sin cannot be ignored or covered up. But when sin is honestly confessed and removed, God's blessing can flow again.

Point 5: God gave detailed instructions for victory at Ai (Joshua 8:1-2, 18-29)
Comment: After dealing with the sin problem, God did not leave them to figure out the next steps alone. He provided a clear plan for moving forward into victory.

Take-Home Thought

The story of Achan is hard to read because we see how one person's secret sin hurt many people. But this passage is not mainly about Achan - it is about God's character. Notice that God did not abandon His people when they failed. He did not say, "You blew it, so now you are on your own." Instead, God worked patiently to help them understand what was wrong and how to fix it.

This gives us hope when we fail. Maybe we have hidden anger that is hurting our relationships. Maybe we have been dishonest about our finances or our feelings. Maybe we have been putting something else before God without admitting it. God's holiness means He cannot ignore these things, but His grace means He will not abandon us because of them. When we honestly bring our failures to Him, He does not push us away. He pulls us close, forgives us completely, and gives us a new plan for victory.

The God who restored Israel after their failure at Ai is the same God who restores us today. His holiness requires our honesty, but His grace provides our hope.

Quotes

Martyn Lloyd-Jones: "There is nothing more important in the life of a Christian than to realize that failure is not final. God's grace is always greater than our failure."

Max Lucado: "God doesn't expect us to be perfect, but He does expect us to be honest. When we bring our failures into the light, His grace shines even brighter."

Biblical Connections

Corporate responsibility for individual sin echoes the principle seen throughout Scripture (1 Corinthians 5:6-7)

Joshua's prayer response connects to other leaders who fell before God in crisis (Numbers 14:5, 16:4)

God's patience in revealing sin similar to His dealing with David through Nathan (2 Samuel 12:1-14)

Restoration after failure foreshadows the New Testament teaching on confession and forgiveness (1 John 1:9)

The valley of Achor becoming a door of hope is referenced in Hosea 2:15

How Does This Help Me Trust God Today?

We all have moments when we feel like failures - times when we said the wrong thing, made poor choices, or let important people down. Sometimes our failures affect others, just like Achan's sin affected all of Israel. This passage reminds us that failure is not the end of our story with God. His holiness means He takes our sin seriously, but His grace means He takes our restoration even more seriously. When we honestly face our failures and bring them to God, we discover that His love for us has not changed. He still has plans for our good, and He still wants to work through us. The same God who gave Israel victory at Ai after their failure wants to give us victory in the areas where we have struggled. Trust begins with honesty, and restoration begins with repentance.

Devotional Thought

After the great victory at Jericho, Joshua’s army expected the small town of Ai to fall easily. Instead, they were defeated. The reason wasn’t strategy—it was sin. One man’s disobedience brought trouble to the whole camp.

When the sin was exposed, Joshua and the people humbled themselves before God. They didn’t make excuses or try to hide the truth. They faced it honestly and turned back to Him. Once they were renewed in heart and obedience, God gave them victory over Ai.

This reminds me of what John Stott once wrote: “The Christian life is a life of continual repentance.” God’s holiness means sin can’t be ignored or swept aside, but His mercy means we can be forgiven and restored when we come clean before Him.

Sometimes in life we feel the sting of defeat—not because God has abandoned us, but because He is calling us back to Him. Renewal always begins with honesty before the Lord, and His grace is always ready to meet us there.

Culture Connection

In today’s culture, personal failure is often hidden, excused, or quickly rebranded as something else. The story of Ai reminds us that real renewal doesn’t come from pretending, but from confessing. In a world that prizes image over integrity, God still calls His people to honesty and repentance. His holiness hasn’t changed, but neither has His grace. For those willing to face the truth, He still offers a fresh start and a renewed path forward.

Session 5: The God Who Fights for His People — Joshua 9–10

— Study Notes — Discussion Handout — Audio Essay

Title: "Trickery, Covenant, and the Day the Sun Stood Still"
Focus Statement: Despite human failure, God fights powerfully for His people to fulfill His word.
Purpose Statement: To trust in God's ability to bring victory, even when circumstances or choices seem to complicate the way.

What to Look For

Notice how the Gibeonites tricked Joshua into making a peace treaty. Watch how Joshua honored his promise even though he was deceived. See the amazing miracle when God made the sun stand still to give His people complete victory.

Personal Reflection Questions

When you made a promise that turned out to be harder to keep than you expected, what helped you follow through?

Can you think of a time when God worked out something good even though you made a mistake?

Read — Joshua 9–10

Overview

Life rarely goes according to our plans. We make decisions with the best information we have, only to discover later that we were missing important details. Joshua faced this when the Gibeonites tricked him into making a peace treaty. He could have broken his word when he learned the truth, but instead he honored his commitment. God honored Joshua's integrity by fighting for his people in one of the most amazing battles in history. This teaches us that God can work through our imperfect decisions when our hearts are right before Him.

This May Surprise You

When God made the sun stand still, He was not just helping Joshua win a battle. He was showing the pagan nations that He controls what they thought were gods. The Canaanites worshiped the sun and moon as powerful deities, but the God of Israel commanded them like servants. This miracle declared to the world that there is only one true God, and He fights for His people. Sometimes God's victories serve a purpose bigger than we can see.

Seeds for Thought

Point 1: The Gibeonites used deception to save themselves (Joshua 9:3-13)
Comment: People will go to great lengths to protect themselves when they know God's power is real. The Gibeonites had heard what God did in Egypt and at Jericho, and they knew they could not win a fight against Him.

Point 2: Joshua made a covenant without seeking God's guidance (Joshua 9:14-15)
Comment: Even godly leaders make mistakes when they rely on their own wisdom instead of asking God first. This reminds us to pray before making important decisions.

Point 3: Joshua honored his word even after learning about the deception (Joshua 9:16-21)
Comment: Integrity means keeping our promises even when it costs us something. God honors people who value their word more than their convenience.

Point 4: God fought for Israel when they defended the Gibeonites (Joshua 10:8-11)
Comment: God did not punish Joshua for his mistake. Instead, He worked through the situation to bring about His purposes. God can use our imperfect decisions for His perfect plans.

Point 5: God performed an impossible miracle to ensure complete victory (Joshua 10:12-14)
Comment: The sun standing still was not just about winning a battle. It showed all nations that Israel's God controls the heavens and the earth. No enemy is too strong when God fights for us.

Take-Home Thought

Joshua made a mistake when he agreed to protect the Gibeonites without asking God first. But notice what God did not do. He did not scold Joshua for his error. He did not leave Israel to fight alone. He did not say, "You made this mess, now you fix it." Instead, God fought for His people more powerfully than ever before.

This teaches us something wonderful about God's character. He does not abandon us when we make imperfect decisions. He does not withhold His help when we mess up. If our hearts are seeking to honor Him, He can work through our mistakes to accomplish His purposes. The God who made the sun stand still for Joshua can work miracles in our complicated situations too.

Maybe you made a financial decision that seemed right at the time but turned out poorly. Maybe you moved somewhere that has not worked out as expected. Maybe you trusted someone who let you down. God sees your heart, and He knows you were trying to do the right thing. He can work through these situations just like He worked through Joshua's treaty with the Gibeonites. The same God who controls the sun and moon is in control of your circumstances, and He fights for you.

Quotes

R.C. Sproul: "God's sovereignty means that no mistake we make can frustrate His ultimate plan. He is able to work even our errors into His perfect design."

Hudson Taylor: "God's work done in God's way will never lack God's supplies. Even when we stumble, He provides what we need to fulfill His purposes."

Biblical Connections

Making covenants without seeking God echoes warnings throughout Scripture about seeking God's counsel (Proverbs 3:5-6, Isaiah 30:1-2)

Honoring promises despite deception connects to biblical principles about keeping our word (Psalm 15:4, Ecclesiastes 5:4-5)

God fighting for His people echoes the promise given throughout Scripture (Exodus 14:14, Deuteronomy 3:22)

The sun standing still is referenced in Habakkuk 3:11 and demonstrates God's control over creation

Hailstones as weapons similar to God's use of nature in other battles (Exodus 9:22-26, Revelation 16:21)

How Does This Help Me Trust God Today?

Life often presents us with decisions we have to make quickly without all the information we wish we had. Sometimes we discover later that we missed important details or made choices we would change if we could. This passage reminds us that God is not looking for perfect decision-makers - He is looking for faithful hearts. When we make mistakes with good intentions, He does not abandon us to deal with the consequences alone. Instead, He fights for us and works through our imperfect choices to accomplish His good purposes. The God who made the sun stand still has power over every situation we face. He can work miracles in our complicated circumstances and bring victory even when we feel like we have made everything more difficult than it needed to be.

Devotional Thought

When the Gibeonites tricked Israel into making a treaty, Joshua and the leaders realized their mistake—they had not sought the Lord’s counsel. The covenant still had to be honored, even though it came through deception.

Soon after, Gibeon was attacked, and Israel was drawn into the fight. What could have been a hopeless tangle became a stage for God’s power. As Joshua led the army, God threw the enemy into confusion, sent a hailstorm that struck more than the sword did, and—most famously—made the sun stand still until the victory was complete.

It’s a reminder that even when our choices complicate the road, God is still able to redeem the situation for His purposes. As Matthew Henry wrote, “God never promises that we shall be free from mistakes, but He will make even our mistakes to work for good when we commit our cause to Him.” Joshua’s story tells us that the God who fights for His people is not limited by the size of the battle—or by the size of our errors.

Culture Connection

We live in a time when one wrong decision can spread instantly and publicly. Many feel defined by a single misstep. But Joshua 9–10 shows that while our decisions have consequences, they don’t have to end the story. God’s grace can work in and through imperfect choices. In a culture that magnifies failure, God’s power still magnifies hope. The God who made the sun stand still still works on behalf of those who call on Him.

Session 6: God, the Faithful Warrior — Joshua 11–12

— Study Notes — Discussion Handout — Audio Essay

Title: "Conquering the Land"
Focus Statement: God completes what He began by delivering victory after victory.
Purpose Statement: To celebrate God's faithfulness in finishing what He starts — in nations and in our lives.

What to Look For

See how God gives Israel victory over many different enemies in the northern part of the land. Notice how the battles take several years, not just a few weeks. Watch how God keeps every promise He made to give them the whole land.

Personal Reflection Questions

What is something God has been working on in your life over many years that shows His patience and faithfulness?

When you look back over your life, where do you see God finishing something He started, even when it took longer than you expected?

Read — Joshua 11–12

Overview

We live in a world of quick fixes and instant results. We want our problems solved fast and our prayers answered immediately. But God often works differently. The conquest of the Promised Land took seven long years of battles, victories, setbacks, and more battles. Through it all, God proved that He finishes what He starts. He did not give up when the fighting got hard or when progress seemed slow. This teaches us that God's faithfulness is not measured by His speed but by His commitment to complete what He began in our lives.

This May Surprise You

The list of defeated kings in chapter 12 includes thirty-one different rulers. That means Israel fought and won thirty-one separate battles over seven years. God could have conquered the whole land in one day with a single miracle, but He chose to work through a long process instead. This was not because God lacked power, but because His people needed time to grow strong and learn to trust Him battle by battle. Sometimes God's timing teaches us as much as His victories.

Seeds for Thought

Point 1: Many kings joined together to fight against Israel (Joshua 11:1-5)
Comment: When God's people move forward, opposition often increases. The enemy tries harder when he knows he is losing ground. This is normal and not a sign that God has abandoned us.

Point 2: God told Joshua not to be afraid of the large army (Joshua 11:6)
Comment: God sees the end from the beginning. What looks overwhelming to us is already settled in God's mind. His promises are more reliable than our fears.

Point 3: The conquest happened gradually over a long time (Joshua 11:18)
Comment: God's work in our lives is usually a process, not an instant change. He is patient with our growth and faithful through every season of the journey.

Point 4: God gave Israel victory over every enemy (Joshua 11:21-23)
Comment: No enemy was too strong for God to defeat. The giants that had scared the previous generation fell before His power. What seems impossible to us is possible with God.

Point 5: The land had rest from war when the conquest was complete (Joshua 11:23)
Comment: God's victories bring peace, not just temporary relief. When God finishes His work, He provides lasting rest and security for His people.

Take-Home Thought

If you had asked the Israelites during year three of the conquest, "Is God faithful?" they might have said, "We are still fighting battles. We still have enemies. Maybe God forgot about us." But if you asked them after year seven when the last enemy was defeated, they would have said, "God kept every single promise. He never left us alone. He finished what He started."

This is how God works in our lives too. He starts good things in us, but He rarely finishes them quickly. Maybe God began healing a broken relationship in your family, but progress seems slow. Maybe He started providing for your needs, but money is still tight. Maybe He began giving you peace about a situation, but worry still creeps in sometimes. These are not signs that God has forgotten you. They are signs that He is working patiently to complete what He began.

The God who conquered thirty-one kings for Israel is still fighting battles for you today. Some of those battles may be against worry, loneliness, health problems, or family troubles. The fighting may have been going on for years, and you may feel tired. But remember - God finishes what He starts. The same faithfulness that gave Israel rest from war will give you rest from whatever battles you are facing.

Quotes

Charles Spurgeon: "God is too good to be unkind, too wise to make mistakes, too loving to abandon what He has begun. He will perfect that which concerns you."

John Piper: "God's delays are not denials. His timing is perfect, and His faithfulness endures through every season of waiting."

Biblical Connections

God fighting for His people echoes His promises throughout the Old Testament (Deuteronomy 3:22, 20:4)

Gradual conquest over time mirrors God's promise in Exodus 23:29-30 to drive out enemies little by little

Complete victory over all enemies foreshadows Christ's ultimate victory over sin and death (1 Corinthians 15:25-26)

The land having rest connects to the Sabbath rest principle and Hebrews 4:9-11

Thirty-one defeated kings demonstrates God's sovereignty over all earthly powers (Psalm 2:2-6)

How Does This Help Me Trust God Today?

When we face ongoing struggles that seem to have no end, we can lose hope that God is really working. Health problems that linger, family relationships that stay difficult, financial pressures that continue month after month - these can make us wonder if God has forgotten us. This passage reminds us that God's faithfulness is not measured by how quickly He solves our problems, but by His commitment to see us through to victory. The same God who spent seven years conquering the Promised Land for Israel is willing to spend whatever time it takes to bring victory in your life. He does not give up when progress seems slow, and He does not abandon us when the battles get hard. Trust His faithfulness, not your feelings. He will finish what He started.

Devotional Thought

Joshua 11–12 reads like a list of battles—one victory after another. But behind each name and place is a story of God’s faithfulness. He had promised this land to His people long before Joshua was born, and now those promises were being fulfilled, one step at a time.

These chapters remind us that God’s victories are not random bursts of luck; they are the steady unfolding of His plan. It didn’t happen overnight—there were years of fighting—but the outcome was certain because God Himself was leading.

Paul wrote in Philippians 1:6, “He who began a good work in you will carry it on to completion until the day of Christ Jesus” (NIV). The God who finished the work in Canaan is the same God who will finish what He has started in our lives. His timing may be slower than we expect, but His faithfulness is never in question.

As we look back, every “battle won” in our lives becomes a reminder that we can trust Him for the ones still ahead.

Culture Connection

Today’s culture often celebrates quick wins and instant results, but real victories—whether in faith, relationships, or personal growth—are usually built over time. Joshua’s long campaign shows that faithfulness, not speed, is the measure of God’s work. In a world where many start but few finish well, this passage points us to the God who always completes what He begins.

Session 7: The God Who Keeps His Promises — Joshua 13–14

— Study Notes — Discussion Handout — Audio Essay

Title: "Dividing the Land"
Focus Statement: God begins allotting the inheritance He promised, and Caleb's faithful witness stands firm.
Purpose Statement: To trust that God remembers His promises and honors enduring faith.

What to Look For

Notice how God carefully divides the land among the tribes just as He promised. See how much land is still left to conquer. Watch how God remembers the promise He made to Caleb forty-five years earlier.

Personal Reflection Questions

What promise from God has sustained you through a long period of waiting in your life?

Like Caleb at age eighty-five, when have you felt God giving you strength to tackle something new despite your age?

Read — Joshua 13–14

Overview

Some promises come true quickly, but others take decades to fulfill. Caleb waited forty-five years to receive the land God promised him. During those years, he watched a whole generation die in the wilderness, fought many battles, and grew old. But he never stopped believing that God would keep His word. At eighty-five years old, Caleb was still strong, still faithful, and still ready to claim what God had promised. This story teaches us that God never forgets His promises, no matter how much time passes.

This May Surprise You

When Caleb asked for his inheritance, he did not request the easy land that was already conquered. Instead, he asked for the hill country where the giants lived - the very place that had frightened the other spies forty-five years earlier. At eighty-five, Caleb was ready to fight giants. This shows that faithful people do not get weaker with age - they get bolder. Long years of trusting God build confidence, not fear.

Seeds for Thought

Point 1: Much land still remained to be conquered (Joshua 13:1-7)
Comment: God does not wait until everything is perfect before He starts fulfilling His promises. He began giving the inheritance while there was still work to be done. God's timing includes both promises and process.

Point 2: The tribes received their inheritance by casting lots (Joshua 14:1-2)
Comment: God guided the division of the land through this method, showing His involvement in even small details. Nothing about our inheritance from God happens by accident.

Point 3: Caleb reminded Joshua of God's forty-five-year-old promise (Joshua 14:6-9)
Comment: Caleb had kept God's words alive in his heart for nearly half a century. When we hold onto God's promises, they hold onto us through long seasons of waiting.

Point 4: Caleb was still strong at eighty-five years old (Joshua 14:10-11)
Comment: God had preserved Caleb's strength for the work ahead. When God makes promises about our future, He also provides the ability to receive them.

Point 5: Caleb asked for the mountain where the giants lived (Joshua 14:12)
Comment: Years of trusting God had made Caleb fearless about big challenges. Faithful people do not shrink from difficulties - they grow confident in God's power.

Take-Home Thought

Caleb's story is amazing because it spans almost fifty years of his life. He was forty years old when he spied out the Promised Land and saw the giants. He believed God could defeat them, but the other people were afraid. So Caleb waited. And waited. For forty-five long years, he held onto God's promise while living in the wilderness, fighting battles, and watching others give up.

But Caleb never gave up. When he was eighty-five years old, he came to Joshua with excitement, not bitterness. He did not complain about having to wait so long. He did not ask for an easier assignment because of his age. Instead, he said, "Give me this mountain!" The same giants that had scared everyone else still lived there, but Caleb was ready to fight them because he trusted the same God who had made the promise decades earlier.

God honors this kind of enduring faith. He remembers every promise He has made to us, even the ones we spoke about years ago when we were younger. Maybe He promised to use you to bless your family. Maybe He promised to provide for your needs. Maybe He promised to give you peace about a difficult situation. Time has not erased those promises from God's memory, and age has not disqualified you from receiving them.

Quotes

George Mueller: "The beginning of anxiety is the end of faith, and the beginning of true faith is the end of anxiety. God's promises do not have expiration dates."

Amy Carmichael: "God never hurries. There are no deadlines against which He must work. But when His time comes, He acts with perfect precision and unfailing love."

Biblical Connections

Caleb's faithful report as a spy connects back to Numbers 13:30 and 14:6-9

Moses' promise to Caleb is recorded in Numbers 14:24 and Deuteronomy 1:36

Casting lots for inheritance echoes the method used for the high priest's breastplate (Exodus 28:30) and later for choosing Matthias (Acts 1:26)

Enduring faith rewarded foreshadows New Testament teachings on perseverance (Hebrews 6:12, James 1:12)

Giants in the hill country refers back to the original fear in Numbers 13:28-33

How Does This Help Me Trust God Today?

Sometimes we feel like God has forgotten the promises He made to us when we were younger. Health changes, family losses, and life's disappointments can make us wonder if those promises were real or if we missed our chance somehow. Caleb's story reminds us that God's promises do not have expiration dates. He does not forget what He said to us decades ago, and He does not consider us too old to receive His blessings. The same God who remembered Caleb for forty-five years remembers you today. Your age is not a disqualification - it is a testimony to God's faithfulness. Like Caleb, you can still say "Give me this mountain!" Whatever giants you face, whatever challenges seem too big, God is still the same promise-keeping God who strengthened Caleb to fight at eighty-five.

Devotional Thought

After years of battle, the land was finally ready to be divided among the tribes. It might seem like a dry section of Scripture—a list of territories and boundaries—but behind every line is the fulfillment of God’s promise to His people.

In the middle of it all, Caleb steps forward. Decades earlier, he and Joshua had trusted God when the rest of Israel doubted. Now, at eighty-five, Caleb asks for the very land God had promised him—a hill country still filled with challenges. He said, “I am still as strong today as the day Moses sent me out… Now give me this hill country” (Joshua 14:11–12, NIV).

Matthew Henry wrote, “Promises made to faith are not forgotten by the Promiser.” Caleb’s story reminds us that God does not lose track of His word. Years may pass, obstacles may remain, but His promises stand—and He honors those who keep trusting Him to the end.

Caleb’s courage was not in his own strength but in the certainty that God would do what He said.

Culture Connection

In our fast-paced culture, people often give up when results don’t come quickly. Long-term faithfulness is rare, and promises are often broken. Caleb’s life challenges that mindset. He waited decades, held onto God’s word, and stepped forward when the time came. His example shows that enduring trust is not wasted. In a world of short attention spans and fleeting commitments, Joshua 13–14 calls us to a steady faith in the God who never forgets what He has promised.

Session 8: Living in the Promise — Joshua 15–17

— Study Notes — Discussion Handout — Audio Essay

Title: "Possessing the Promise"
Focus Statement: God gives, but His people must faithfully receive and act on the inheritance.
Purpose Statement: To actively embrace what God has promised us, even when obstacles remain.

What to Look For

Notice how God gives each tribe specific boundaries for their land. See how some tribes settled in their territory while others made excuses about the enemies still there. Watch how the daughters of Zelophehad boldly asked for their inheritance.

Personal Reflection Questions

What blessing from God have you sometimes been hesitant to fully enjoy because it seemed too good to be true?

When have you had to speak up for yourself to receive something you knew was rightfully yours?

Read — Joshua 15–17

Overview

Getting a gift and enjoying a gift are two different things. God had given the Promised Land to His people, but some of them were not living like they owned it. They complained about enemies still in their territory instead of trusting God to drive them out. Meanwhile, others like Caleb's daughter Achsah and the daughters of Zelophehad boldly asked for what belonged to them. This teaches us that God's promises require our participation. He gives us the inheritance, but we must have the courage to live in it fully.

This May Surprise You

The daughters of Zelophehad had no brothers, which normally meant their family would receive no inheritance since property passed through men. But these women remembered that Moses had promised them land, and they were not about to let that promise slip away. They approached Joshua and the leaders with confidence, not apology. God honored their boldness because they were claiming what He had already promised. Sometimes we need to speak up for the blessings God intends for us.

Seeds for Thought

Point 1: Each tribe received detailed boundaries for their inheritance (Joshua 15:1-12, 20-63)
Comment: God is specific about His gifts to us. He does not give vague blessings but particular provisions suited to our needs. His care for us includes attention to details.

Point 2: Some Canaanites remained in the territories (Joshua 15:63, 16:10)
Comment: God's promises do not always come with perfect circumstances. Sometimes we must live with the inheritance God gives us while still dealing with remaining challenges.

Point 3: Caleb's daughter Achsah asked for springs of water with her land (Joshua 15:18-19)
Comment: Achsah knew that land without water would not be useful. She boldly asked for what she needed to make her inheritance valuable. God wants us to ask for what we need to flourish.

Point 4: The tribe of Joseph complained their portion was too small (Joshua 17:14-15)
Comment: Instead of being grateful for what God provided, they focused on what seemed lacking. Complaining about God's gifts reveals an ungrateful heart.

Point 5: The daughters of Zelophehad claimed their promised inheritance (Joshua 17:3-6)
Comment: These women did not let obstacles stop them from receiving what God had promised. They remembered the promise and acted on it with confidence.

Take-Home Thought

God had given the Promised Land to His people, but not everyone lived like they believed it. Some tribes looked at the Canaanites still living in their territory and said, "This land does not really belong to us." Others looked at the same situation and said, "God gave us this land, so these enemies have to go." The difference was not in their circumstances but in their faith.

The same thing happens in our lives today. God promises us peace, but we focus on our worries. He promises to provide for our needs, but we stress about money. He promises to be with us always, but we feel alone. The problem is not that God's promises are not real - the problem is that we are not living like we believe them.

Maybe God has promised to give you strength for each day, but you are living like you have to handle everything yourself. Maybe He has promised to work all things together for good, but you are living like your problems are bigger than His power. Maybe He has promised that nothing can separate you from His love, but you are living like you have to earn His approval every day. These are inheritance issues, not promise issues. God has given you these blessings, but you need the courage to live in them fully.

Quotes

A.W. Tozer: "What comes into our minds when we think about God is the most important thing about us. If we think He is stingy with His promises, we will live like paupers in His kingdom."

Andrew Murray: "The promises of God are not merely to comfort us, but to be claimed by us. A promise is not fulfilled until it is appropriated by faith."

Biblical Connections

The daughters of Zelophehad connects back to their original request in Numbers 27:1-11 and God's approval of it

Caleb's daughter asking for springs echoes the principle of asking boldly for what we need (Matthew 7:7-8)

Incomplete conquest of the land foreshadows ongoing spiritual battles in the Christian life (Ephesians 6:12)

Tribal boundaries and inheritance connects to our spiritual inheritance in Christ (Ephesians 1:11, 1 Peter 1:4)

Bold requests for inheritance parallels the confidence we can have in approaching God (Hebrews 4:16)

How Does This Help Me Trust God Today?

God has given every believer an incredible inheritance - peace that passes understanding, joy unspeakable, love that never fails, and strength for every challenge. But like the tribes of Israel, we sometimes live like we do not really own what God has given us. We let worry stay in our hearts instead of claiming God's peace. We let loneliness settle in instead of remembering His constant presence. We let fear make decisions instead of trusting His protection. This passage reminds us that God's gifts require our participation. He has given us the inheritance, but we must have the courage to live in it. When obstacles remain, we do not retreat - we remember that God has promised to drive them out. When others question our confidence, we stand firm like the daughters of Zelophehad and claim what God has already given us. The inheritance is ours - now we must possess it.

Devotional Thought

In these chapters, the land is assigned in detail to Judah, Ephraim, and the half-tribe of Manasseh. The boundaries are set, the inheritance given. Yet in several places, we read that the people did not drive out those who still lived there. The gift was theirs, but they didn’t fully take hold of it.

God had kept His word. Now His people needed to act in faith to fully live in what He had given. Some, like Caleb’s daughter Achsah, asked boldly for blessings—a picture of faith that not only accepts but seeks more of what God has promised.

It reminds me of Hudson Taylor’s words: “God’s work done in God’s way will never lack God’s supply.” But the supply still has to be received. Faith is not just believing the promise—it’s stepping forward to claim it.

The same is true for us. God’s spiritual promises are certain, but we must walk into them, trusting Him for the strength to overcome whatever obstacles still stand in the way.

Culture Connection

Our culture often wants results without effort or rewards without responsibility. Joshua 15–17 reminds us that God’s promises are generous, but they’re not passive. They call for action. In an age where people settle for less than what’s possible, this passage challenges believers to fully embrace and live in all God has provided—whether that means growth in character, deeper relationships with Him, or service in His kingdom. God gives, but we must possess.

Session 9: A Just and Merciful God — Joshua 18–20

— Study Notes — Discussion Handout — Audio Essay

Title: "The Cities of Refuge"
Focus Statement: God provides both justice and protection through the establishment of refuge and order.
Purpose Statement: To reflect God's heart by valuing justice, mercy, and safe places in our communities.

What to Look For

Notice how carefully God planned for every tribe to have their own territory. See how the tabernacle found its permanent home in Shiloh. Watch how God established cities of refuge to protect people who accidentally hurt someone.

Personal Reflection Questions

When you made a serious mistake that hurt someone, who provided a safe place for you during that difficult time?

How has your church family been a place of refuge for you or for others you know?

Read — Joshua 18–20

Overview

In our world today, we hear a lot about justice and mercy, but they often seem to conflict with each other. People demand justice when they are wronged, but they want mercy when they make mistakes. God shows us in these chapters that true justice and mercy work together, not against each other. He established cities of refuge where people who accidentally killed someone could find protection, but He also required a fair trial to determine the truth. This teaches us that God cares about both protecting the innocent and ensuring justice is done fairly.

This May Surprise You

The cities of refuge were not just for Israelites. They were also available to foreigners and temporary residents living among God's people. This shows that God's mercy extends to everyone, not just to His chosen nation. In a time when outsiders were often treated harshly, God made sure His justice system protected all people equally. This reveals God's heart for anyone who needs refuge, regardless of their background.

Seeds for Thought

Point 1: The tabernacle was set up permanently in Shiloh (Joshua 18:1)
Comment: After years of moving from place to place, God's presence found a settled home among His people. This gave the nation a permanent center for worship and guidance.

Point 2: Seven tribes still had not received their inheritance (Joshua 18:2-3)
Comment: Some people delay claiming what God has given them. Joshua had to motivate these tribes to take action and possess their promised land instead of just thinking about it.

Point 3: The land was surveyed and described in detail (Joshua 18:4-10)
Comment: God values order and careful planning. He did not divide the land randomly but made sure each tribe received exactly what they needed for their future.

Point 4: Cities of refuge protected those who killed someone accidentally (Joshua 20:1-6)
Comment: God's justice system included mercy for people who made terrible mistakes without evil intent. He provided safety while ensuring the truth could be determined fairly.

Point 5: The cities were strategically located throughout the land (Joshua 20:7-9)
Comment: God made sure refuge was available to everyone, no matter where they lived. Help was never more than a day's journey away for someone who desperately needed protection.

Take-Home Thought

The cities of refuge show us something beautiful about God's character. He could have set up a justice system based only on "an eye for an eye." If someone killed your family member, even by accident, you could demand their life in return. That would be justice. But God added something else - mercy. He created safe places where people could run when they made terrible mistakes.

But notice that God did not choose between justice and mercy. He chose both. The person who ran to a city of refuge still had to face a trial. If they were found guilty of murder, they would face the consequences. If it was truly an accident, they found protection. This is how God works in our lives too. He does not ignore sin or pretend our mistakes do not matter. But He also does not condemn us without hope.

We all need cities of refuge. Sometimes we need protection from others who want to hurt us. Sometimes we need protection from the consequences of our own mistakes. Sometimes we need protection from our own guilt and shame. God still provides safe places today - through His forgiveness, through loving church families, through friends who stand by us when we fail. The same God who established cities of refuge thousands of years ago is still creating safe places for people who desperately need help.

Quotes

Philip Yancey: "Grace means there is nothing we can do to make God love us more, and nothing we can do to make God love us less. It is unconditional love with arms open wide."

John Stott: "We must allow the Word of God to confront us, to disturb our security, to undermine our complacency and to overthrow our patterns of thought and behavior."

Biblical Connections

Cities of refuge were first commanded in Numbers 35:9-34 and Deuteronomy 19:1-13

Equal protection for foreigners reflects God's heart throughout Scripture (Leviticus 19:34, Deuteronomy 10:19)

Fair trials and witnesses connects to broader biblical principles of justice (Deuteronomy 17:6, Matthew 18:16)

Refuge in God is a common theme in Psalms (Psalm 46:1, 91:2, 142:5)

Jesus as our refuge fulfills this Old Testament picture (Hebrews 6:18, Romans 8:1)

How Does This Help Me Trust God Today?

Life sometimes brings us face to face with our own failures or the failures of others. We make mistakes that hurt people we love. Others make choices that cause us pain. In those moments, we need to know that God provides both justice and mercy. If we have wronged someone, we can run to God's refuge in Christ, where we find forgiveness and protection from condemnation. If someone has wronged us, we can trust that God sees the situation clearly and will bring about true justice in His time. The same God who established cities of refuge for the Israelites still provides safe places for us today. His church should be a community where broken people find healing, where the guilty find forgiveness, and where justice and mercy work together just as God intended.

Devotional Thought

With most of the land now assigned, Joshua gave instructions to finish dividing what remained. In the midst of this practical work, God commanded the establishment of cities of refuge—places where someone accused of killing another could run for safety until a fair trial could be held.

These cities showed that God cares about both justice and mercy. Justice meant that wrongdoing could not be ignored; mercy meant that the accused had a chance for safety and fairness. The system reflected God’s own character—holy, yet compassionate.

It points us forward to Christ, our ultimate refuge. Hebrews 6:18 says that we “who have fled to take hold of the hope set before us may be greatly encouraged” (NIV). In Him, we find safety from the judgment our sins deserve and the assurance of God’s mercy.

As Warren Wiersbe observed, “God’s justice and mercy meet perfectly at the cross.” The cities of refuge were a shadow; the Savior is the substance.

Culture Connection

In today’s world, conversations about justice can be heated and divided. Some emphasize punishment; others stress compassion. God’s design for the cities of refuge shows that His way holds both. Communities thrive when they protect the innocent, confront wrongdoing, and provide places where people can find help and safety. In a culture that often chooses one side or the other, Joshua 18–20 challenges us to reflect both sides of God’s heart.

Session 10: Faithfulness Across the Finish Line — Joshua 21–22

— Study Notes — Discussion Handout — Audio Essay

Title: "Finalizing the Inheritance"
Focus Statement: God fulfills every promise, and His people are called to maintain unity.
Purpose Statement: To celebrate God's faithfulness and guard against division in times of success.

What to Look For

See how God provides cities for the Levites just as He promised. Notice the strong statement that God kept every single promise He made. Watch how a misunderstanding almost caused a civil war among God's people.

Personal Reflection Questions

When you completed something important in your life, what helped you remember to thank God for His faithfulness throughout the journey?

Have you seen how success or good times can sometimes create unexpected problems between people who used to get along well?

Read — Joshua 21–22

Overview

Finishing well is often harder than starting strong. When the Promised Land was finally conquered and divided, it would have been natural for the people to focus on enjoying their success. But this is exactly when problems can develop. The eastern tribes built an altar that the western tribes misunderstood, and it almost led to war among God's people. Success can create its own challenges. This passage teaches us that God's faithfulness to us should inspire our faithfulness to each other, especially when things are going well.

This May Surprise You

The statement in Joshua 21:45 is one of the most powerful verses in the Bible: "Not one of all the Lord's good promises to Israel failed; every one was fulfilled." Think about that - every single promise God made to Abraham, Isaac, Jacob, and Moses came true exactly as God said it would. This was not just about land and cities. It was about God's character. When God makes a promise, He keeps it completely. This gives us confidence that His promises to us today are just as reliable.

Seeds for Thought

Point 1: The Levites received forty-eight cities as God had promised (Joshua 21:1-8)
Comment: God did not forget the tribe that had no land inheritance. He provided for them in a different way, giving them cities scattered throughout all the other tribes. God's provision often comes in unexpected forms.

Point 2: Every single promise God made was fulfilled completely (Joshua 21:43-45)
Comment: This is a milestone moment in Bible history. After centuries of promises, wandering, and waiting, God had kept His word perfectly. His faithfulness was now a proven fact, not just a hope.

Point 3: The eastern tribes were released to return home (Joshua 22:1-8)
Comment: These tribes had fought for seven years to help their brothers, even though their own inheritance was across the Jordan River. Joshua praised them for keeping their commitment to help others.

Point 4: A misunderstanding about an altar almost caused civil war (Joshua 22:10-20)
Comment: Success can make people suspicious of each other. The western tribes assumed the worst about their brothers instead of asking questions first. Good communication prevents many conflicts.

Point 5: The eastern tribes explained their good intentions (Joshua 22:21-29)
Comment: The altar was meant to remind future generations that they belonged to the same God, not to replace proper worship. Their hearts were right, even though their actions were misunderstood.

Take-Home Thought

Joshua 21:45 should be written in large letters and hung on every wall: "Not one of all the Lord's good promises to Israel failed; every one was fulfilled." After four hundred years in Egypt, forty years in the wilderness, and seven years of conquest, God had kept every single promise He made. The land was theirs. The enemies were defeated. The inheritance was distributed. God's faithfulness was complete.

But notice what happened next. Instead of celebrating together, the tribes almost went to war over a misunderstanding about an altar. Success had created new problems. When people are struggling together, they stick together. When people are succeeding separately, they sometimes grow apart. The eastern tribes were going home to their families after seven years of fighting. The western tribes were settling into their new territories. Everyone was happy, but they were also becoming distant from each other.

This happens in our lives too. When we are facing difficulties, we pray together, support each other, and remember our common dependence on God. But when things are going well, we can become self-sufficient and forget how much we need each other. Good times test our unity just as much as hard times do. The God who kept every promise to Israel is the same God who promises to never leave us or forsake us. His faithfulness should draw us closer to Him and to each other, not just in difficult times but especially in times of blessing.

Quotes

Jerry Bridges: "God's faithfulness has never depended on our faithfulness. He remains faithful even when we are faithless, because He cannot deny Himself."

Elisabeth Elliot: "The fact that I am a woman does not make me a different kind of Christian, but the fact that I am a Christian makes me a different kind of woman and a different kind of human being."

Biblical Connections

God keeping all His promises fulfills specific commitments made to Abraham (Genesis 12:7, 13:15), Isaac (Genesis 26:3), and Jacob (Genesis 28:13)

Levites receiving cities fulfills Moses' instructions in Numbers 35:1-8

The eastern tribes' faithful service connects to their original commitment in Numbers 32:16-32

The altar of witness echoes other memorial altars throughout Scripture (Genesis 28:18, 31:45-48)

Unity threatened by misunderstanding parallels New Testament warnings about division (1 Corinthians 1:10, Ephesians 4:3)

How Does This Help Me Trust God Today?

When we look back over our lives, we can see God's faithfulness in ways we could not see when we were in the middle of difficult situations. He provided when we needed provision. He gave strength when we felt weak. He opened doors when we needed opportunities. He brought people into our lives exactly when we needed them. Like the Israelites, we can say that God has kept His promises to us. But this passage also reminds us to be careful during the good times. Success can make us forget our dependence on God and our need for Christian fellowship. When things are going well, we should be even more grateful, even more committed to gathering with God's people, and even more careful to communicate well with others. The God who finished what He started with Israel will finish what He started in our lives too.

Devotional Thought

By the end of Joshua 21, the record is clear: “Not one of all the Lord’s good promises to Israel failed; every one was fulfilled” (v. 45, NIV). God had given the land, rest from enemies, and every blessing He had pledged. The long journey from Egypt to Canaan was complete.

Yet even in this season of success, a misunderstanding almost sparked a civil war. The tribes who lived east of the Jordan built an altar—not for sacrifice, but as a witness of their shared faith. The others feared rebellion against God and prepared for battle until the truth came out.

It’s a reminder that unity requires both vigilance and understanding. Success can bring rest, but it can also bring miscommunication if we aren’t careful. As Charles Spurgeon once said, “Unity without truth is hazardous, but truth without unity is heartless.”

God’s faithfulness brought Israel to the finish line, but their ongoing faithfulness to Him—and to each other—would determine how they lived in the land He had given.

Culture Connection

In our fast-moving culture, people often celebrate reaching a goal without thinking about what comes next. Success can be a blessing, but it can also create space for pride, misunderstanding, or division. Joshua 21–22 reminds us that God’s fulfilled promises are not an endpoint but a starting point for continued faithfulness. In a world quick to assume the worst of others, the call to unity rooted in truth is more urgent than ever.

Session 11: A Lasting Legacy of Faithfulness — Joshua 23

— Study Notes — Discussion Handout — Audio Essay

Title: "Choose to Remain Faithful"
Focus Statement: Joshua exhorts the people to cling to God alone as they settle in the land.
Purpose Statement: To finish strong by remembering all God has done and holding fast to Him.

What to Look For

Notice that Joshua is now old and ready to pass on leadership to others. See how he reminds them of everything God has done for them. Watch how he warns them about the dangers they will face if they turn away from God.

Personal Reflection Questions

What advice would you want to give to your children or grandchildren about staying faithful to God throughout their lives?

Looking back over your years of following God, what has helped you remain faithful through different seasons?

Read — Joshua 23

Overview

Some of the most important words we ever hear come from people who are nearing the end of their lives. They have wisdom that can only come from years of experience. Joshua had reached that point. He had led God's people for decades, fought many battles, and seen God's faithfulness over and over again. Now, as an old man, he gathered the leaders together to share what mattered most. His message was simple but urgent: remember all God has done, and hold fast to Him alone. This is the kind of legacy speech that can shape generations.

This May Surprise You

Joshua knew that prosperity could be more dangerous than poverty for God's people. When they were slaves in Egypt or wandering in the desert, they had to depend on God every day. But now that they were settled in good land with houses they did not build and wells they did not dig, they might forget their need for God. Joshua understood that comfort can make people spiritually lazy. His warnings were not about external enemies but about the internal drift that happens when life gets easy.

Seeds for Thought

Point 1: Joshua reminded them of God's past faithfulness (Joshua 23:3-5)
Comment: Before talking about the future, Joshua helped them remember the past. God's track record of faithfulness is the best foundation for trusting Him with what lies ahead.

Point 2: He emphasized the importance of courage and obedience (Joshua 23:6-8)
Comment: Following God requires both courage to do what is right and discipline to avoid what is wrong. Faithfulness is not passive - it requires active choices every day.

Point 3: Joshua warned against mixing with ungodly influences (Joshua 23:7, 12-13)
Comment: The people around us affect our faith. Joshua knew that close relationships with those who do not honor God would gradually pull His people away from Him.

Point 4: He reminded them that God's promises work both ways (Joshua 23:14-16)
Comment: Just as surely as God keeps His promises to bless those who follow Him, He will keep His promises to discipline those who reject Him. God's faithfulness includes both blessing and correction.

Point 5: Joshua called them to make a deliberate choice (Joshua 23:11)
Comment: "Be very careful to love the Lord your God." Love for God is not just a feeling - it is a choice we make every day, and it requires careful attention to maintain.

Take-Home Thought

Joshua's farewell speech reads like a grandfather's letter to his family. He had seen so much over his long life - the plagues in Egypt, the crossing of the Red Sea, forty years in the wilderness, the Jordan River miracle, the walls of Jericho falling, victory after victory in the Promised Land. Through it all, one thing had remained constant: God's faithfulness.

Now Joshua was old, and he knew his time was short. What did he want his people to remember most? Not his military victories or his leadership skills. He wanted them to remember God. "You yourselves have seen everything the Lord your God has done," he told them. "It was the Lord your God who fought for you." Joshua's legacy was not about pointing to himself but about pointing to God.

This is the kind of legacy every faithful person leaves behind. We may not lead armies or conquer cities, but we can live in such a way that people remember God's faithfulness in our lives. When our children and grandchildren think of us, they should think of someone who loved God, trusted His promises, and held fast to Him through every season of life. The greatest inheritance we can leave is not money or property but a testimony of God's faithfulness that encourages the next generation to choose Him too.

Quotes

Billy Graham: "The legacy we leave is not just in our possessions, but in the quality of our lives. What memories will we leave behind? What example will we set? What influence will we have on others?"

Charles Spurgeon: "A good character is the best tombstone. Those who loved you and were helped by you will remember you when forget-me-nots have withered. Carve your name on hearts, not on marble."

Biblical Connections

Joshua's farewell speech parallels Moses' farewell addresses in Deuteronomy

"Be strong and courageous" echoes God's original commission to Joshua (Joshua 1:6-7, 9)

Warnings about mixing with ungodly influences connects to repeated Old Testament themes (Exodus 34:12-16, Deuteronomy 7:1-6)

God fighting for His people references the consistent promise throughout Scripture (Exodus 14:14, Deuteronomy 3:22)

The importance of remembering God's works echoes the Psalms (Psalm 77:11, 105:5)

How Does This Help Me Trust God Today?

As we get older, we gain perspective that younger people do not have yet. We have seen God's faithfulness through decades of life - through job changes, health scares, family struggles, financial pressures, and countless daily challenges. Like Joshua, we have stories to tell about how God has been faithful. This passage reminds us that our most important legacy is not what we accomplished but how we pointed others to God's faithfulness. The young people in our lives need to hear our stories of God's provision, protection, and presence. They need to see that a life lived in faithfulness to God is a life well lived, regardless of circumstances. Our years of experience with God's faithfulness become a treasure we can share with others, encouraging them to choose the same path of trusting Him that has served us so well.

Devotional Thought

A woman once spent her life sewing quilts by hand. Each one took time, patience, and care. When her granddaughter admired them, she said, “Grandma, how do you keep making them so carefully, even when no one’s watching?” The woman smiled, “Because every stitch tells a story—and I want mine to say I was faithful.”

Our lives are like those quilts—small, steady choices sewn together over time. Serving the Lord isn’t always dramatic. Often, it’s quiet and personal: prayer in the morning, kind words to a neighbor, keeping the faith even when life feels ordinary.

Joshua’s final stand wasn’t on a battlefield—it was in his own home. His greatest legacy wasn’t military—it was spiritual.

As A.W. Tozer once said, “The final test of love is obedience.” When we choose to serve God daily, even in our later years, we leave a story of faithfulness that can warm hearts for generations.

Culture Connection

In a world full of shifting values, Joshua’s words still echo with clarity. Culture today encourages each generation to “find their own truth,” often disconnecting from the wisdom of those who came before. But Joshua's call reminds us that true faith isn’t invented—it’s inherited and reaffirmed.

By standing firm in our faith and declaring, “As for me and my house, we will serve the Lord,” we remind others—especially younger generations—that God’s truth endures. Our commitment becomes more than personal—it becomes generational.

Even if our influence feels small, our quiet devotion can shape the lives of children, grandchildren, neighbors, and church family. Faithfulness, passed down, can be a powerful legacy in any age.

Session 12: Serving the Lord in Every Generation — Joshua 24

— Study Notes — Discussion Handout — Audio Essay

Title: "As for Me and My House"
Focus Statement: Joshua leads a covenant renewal, affirming God's faithfulness and the people's response.
Purpose Statement: To reaffirm our personal and communal decision to serve the Lord with undivided hearts.

What to Look For

See how Joshua recounts the entire history of God's faithfulness from Abraham to the present moment. Notice how he challenges the people to make a clear choice about whom they will serve. Watch how the people respond with their own commitment to serve the Lord.

Personal Reflection Questions

If you were telling someone the story of God's faithfulness in your family's history, what key moments would you include?

What decision to follow God are you most grateful you made, even though it was difficult at the time?

Read — Joshua 24

Overview

Some moments in life require us to take a stand and declare where our loyalty lies. Joshua knew this was such a moment for Israel. They had conquered the Promised Land and were settling into their new life of prosperity and peace. It would be easy to drift away from God gradually, so Joshua gathered everyone together for a decision that could not be avoided. He told the story of God's faithfulness from beginning to end, then challenged them to choose whom they would serve. His own choice was clear: "As for me and my house, we will serve the Lord." This became one of the most famous declarations of faith in all of Scripture.

This May Surprise You

Joshua did not make it easy for the people to choose God. When they said they wanted to serve the Lord, he actually argued with them, saying "You are not able to serve the Lord, for He is a holy God." This was not discouragement - it was honesty. Joshua wanted them to understand that choosing God is not a casual decision. It requires giving up other loyalties and committing to follow His ways even when it is difficult. True commitment comes only when we understand what we are promising to do.

Seeds for Thought

Point 1: Joshua reviewed the entire history of God's faithfulness (Joshua 24:2-13)
Comment: Before asking for commitment, Joshua reminded them of God's track record. Faith is built on facts, not just feelings. God's past faithfulness is the foundation for future trust.

Point 2: Joshua challenged them to choose whom they would serve (Joshua 24:14-15)
Comment: Neutrality was not an option. Everyone serves something or someone. Joshua forced them to be honest about their ultimate loyalty and make it a conscious choice.

Point 3: Joshua made his own family's choice clear (Joshua 24:15)
Comment: "As for me and my house, we will serve the Lord." Leadership means making your own commitment clear before asking others to follow. Joshua's family decision influenced the nation.

Point 4: The people declared their commitment publicly (Joshua 24:16-18, 21)
Comment: Public declarations of faith matter because they help us remember our commitments when circumstances get difficult. Witnessing our promises to others strengthens our resolve.

Point 5: Joshua set up a stone memorial to remember their covenant (Joshua 24:26-27)
Comment: Physical reminders help us remember spiritual commitments. The stone would be a witness to their promise for generations to come.

Take-Home Thought

Joshua's final challenge to Israel has echoed through history for thousands of years: "Choose for yourselves this day whom you will serve." But notice that Joshua did not wait to see what everyone else would do before making his own choice. He declared boldly, "As for me and my house, we will serve the Lord."

This kind of leadership is desperately needed in every generation. Someone has to be willing to stand up and say, "Regardless of what anyone else chooses, this is what our family is going to do. We are going to serve the Lord." Joshua was not being judgmental or self-righteous. He was being clear about his values and his commitment, and that clarity gave others permission to make their own bold choices.

The same decision faces us today. We live in a culture that offers many alternatives to serving God. Some people serve money, working constantly to accumulate more. Others serve comfort, making decisions based on what feels easiest. Still others serve popularity, changing their beliefs to match whatever is currently accepted. Joshua's challenge still stands: "Choose for yourselves this day whom you will serve."

The most important legacy we can leave is not our accomplishments or our possessions, but our clear choice to serve the Lord. When our children and grandchildren remember us, we want them to be able to say, "As for my parents, as for my grandparents, they served the Lord." That kind of testimony shapes families for generations.

Quotes

D.L. Moody: "The Bible was not given for our information but for our transformation. A commitment to serve God changes everything about how we live."

A.W. Tozer: "The man who comes to a right belief about God is relieved of ten thousand temporal problems, for he sees at once that these have to do with matters which at the most cannot concern him for very long."

Biblical Connections

God's call to Abraham (Joshua 24:2-3) connects back to Genesis 12:1-3

The Exodus story (Joshua 24:5-7) references the foundational events of Exodus 1-15

Choosing whom to serve echoes Elijah's challenge on Mount Carmel (1 Kings 18:21)

Setting up memorial stones connects to earlier memorials throughout Joshua (Joshua 4:20-24, 22:26-27)

Covenant renewal parallels other renewal ceremonies throughout Scripture (Deuteronomy 29-30, 2 Kings 23:1-3)

How Does This Help Me Trust God Today?

Every day we face the same choice Joshua presented to Israel - whom will we serve? The decision is not made once and forgotten. It is made fresh every morning when we choose to start our day with prayer or rush into our activities without God. It is made when we decide whether to forgive someone who hurt us or hold onto bitterness. It is made when we choose to be generous with our resources or hoard them for ourselves. Joshua's declaration "As for me and my house, we will serve the Lord" becomes a daily commitment that shapes every aspect of our lives. The God who proved His faithfulness to Abraham, Isaac, Jacob, Moses, and Joshua continues to prove His faithfulness to us today. Our response should be the same clear commitment that Joshua made - regardless of what others choose, we will serve the Lord.

Devotional Thought

A woman once spent her life sewing quilts by hand. Each one took time, patience, and care. When her granddaughter admired them, she said, “Grandma, how do you keep making them so carefully, even when no one’s watching?” The woman smiled, “Because every stitch tells a story—and I want mine to say I was faithful.”

Our lives are like those quilts—small, steady choices sewn together over time. Serving the Lord isn’t always dramatic. Often, it’s quiet and personal: prayer in the morning, kind words to a neighbor, keeping the faith even when life feels ordinary.

Joshua’s final stand wasn’t on a battlefield—it was in his own home. His greatest legacy wasn’t military—it was spiritual.

As A.W. Tozer once said, “The final test of love is obedience.” When we choose to serve God daily, even in our later years, we leave a story of faithfulness that can warm hearts for generations.

Culture Connection

In a world full of shifting values, Joshua’s words still echo with clarity. Culture today encourages each generation to “find their own truth,” often disconnecting from the wisdom of those who came before. But Joshua's call reminds us that true faith isn’t invented—it’s inherited and reaffirmed.

By standing firm in our faith and declaring, “As for me and my house, we will serve the Lord,” we remind others—especially younger generations—that God’s truth endures. Our commitment becomes more than personal—it becomes generational.

Even if our influence feels small, our quiet devotion can shape the lives of children, grandchildren, neighbors, and church family. Faithfulness, passed down, can be a powerful legacy in any age.

Session 13: The God Who Never Fails — Joshua 21:43–45; 23:14; 24:31

— Study Notes — Discussion Handout — Audio Essay

Title: "Not One Promise Failed"
Focus Statement: God kept every promise He made to His people, and they served Him faithfully in their time.
Purpose Statement: To reflect on God's perfect record of faithfulness — and how we can leave a legacy of trust.

What to Look For

Notice the repeated emphasis on God keeping all His promises. See how this truth is stated multiple times for emphasis. Watch how the generation that experienced God's faithfulness responded by serving Him throughout their lives.

Personal Reflection Questions

What promise from God has proven most reliable in your own life journey?

How do you want to be remembered by those who come after you - what legacy of faithfulness do you hope to leave?

Read — Joshua 21:43–45; Joshua 23:14; Joshua 24:31

Overview

Some truths are so important they need to be repeated. Three times in the book of Joshua, we read that God kept every single promise He made to His people. Not most of them. Not the easy ones. Every single one. This was not an accident - it was the central message Joshua wanted to leave with future generations. After a lifetime of following God, Joshua had learned that God's faithfulness is absolutely perfect. This final session invites us to look back on our own journey and celebrate the same truth in our lives today.

This May Surprise You

The phrase "not one promise failed" appears three times in slightly different forms, but each time it becomes stronger. First, it says God gave them all the land He promised. Then Joshua says not one good thing God promised failed. Finally, it emphasizes that not one word of all God's good promises failed. This repetition shows that God's faithfulness was the most important lesson of Joshua's entire life. After decades of leadership, this was what mattered most to him.

Seeds for Thought

Point 1: God gave them all the land He had promised (Joshua 21:43)
Comment: The land promise to Abraham was finally, completely fulfilled. What God begins, He finishes. What seemed impossible when Abraham was old and childless became reality centuries later.

Point 2: Not one of God's good promises failed (Joshua 21:45, 23:14)
Comment: This statement covers everything - military victories, safe travels, provision of food and water, protection from enemies, and blessing on their families. God's track record was perfect.

Point 3: Israel served the Lord throughout Joshua's generation (Joshua 24:31)
Comment: Experiencing God's faithfulness led to faithful service. When people truly understand how reliable God is, it changes how they live. Gratitude produces loyalty.

Point 4: The testimony lasted beyond Joshua's lifetime (Joshua 24:31)
Comment: Joshua's leadership created a legacy of faith that outlived him. The elders who served with him continued to lead the people in faithfulness even after he died.

Point 5: This record of faithfulness was preserved for future generations
Comment: The book of Joshua itself becomes a testimony to God's faithfulness. Every time someone reads these words, they are reminded that God keeps His promises completely.

Take-Home Thought

Imagine being able to say at the end of your life, "Not one of God's promises to me failed." That is exactly what Joshua's generation could say. They had seen God part the Red Sea, provide food in the wilderness, stop the Jordan River, bring down Jericho's walls, and defeat enemy after enemy. Through decades of challenges and victories, God had proven Himself faithful in every single situation.

Now imagine someone saying the same thing about your life: "They trusted God completely, and He never let them down." This is the kind of legacy that shapes families for generations. When children and grandchildren see someone who trusted God through every season of life - through health and sickness, plenty and want, joy and sorrow - it gives them confidence to trust God too.

The God who kept every promise to Joshua's generation is the same God who has been faithful to you throughout your life. He provided when you needed provision. He gave strength when you felt weak. He opened doors when you needed opportunities. He carried you through grief when loss seemed unbearable. He has been your help in times of trouble and your joy in times of celebration.

As we conclude this study of Joshua, the most important question is not "What did we learn?" but "What will we do?" Will we live the rest of our days with the confidence that comes from knowing God never fails? Will we leave behind a testimony that encourages others to trust Him too? The same God who fulfilled His promises to Abraham, Moses, and Joshua is still keeping His promises today. Not one of them will fail.

Quotes

Corrie ten Boom: "When a train goes through a tunnel and it gets dark, you don't throw away the ticket and jump off. You sit still and trust the engineer. God is our engineer."

Amy Carmichael: "We have proved the promises of God. He has never failed us once. His word has never been broken. Therefore, we dare to trust Him for all that lies ahead."

Biblical Connections

God's promises to Abraham about land and descendants (Genesis 12:7, 13:14-17, 15:18-21) were completely fulfilled

Moses' promises about conquering the land (Deuteronomy 7:1-2, 11:23-25) came to pass exactly as stated

The concept of God's word never failing echoes throughout Scripture (Isaiah 55:11, 1 Kings 8:56)

Faithful service as a response to God's faithfulness connects to New Testament teachings (Romans 12:1, 1 Corinthians 15:58)

Leaving a legacy of faith parallels Paul's testimony at the end of his life (2 Timothy 4:7-8)

How Does This Help Me Trust God Today?

After walking through the entire book of Joshua together, we have seen God's faithfulness displayed in victory after victory, promise after promise fulfilled, and miracle after miracle. This builds our confidence that the same God who was faithful to Joshua's generation will be faithful to us. When we face uncertain health situations, family struggles, financial pressures, or the natural anxieties that come with aging, we can remember that our God has a perfect track record. He has never failed anyone who trusted in Him, and He will not start with us. The promises He has made about eternal life, His constant presence, His unfailing love, and His perfect plan for our lives are as reliable today as His promises were to Joshua. Not one of them will fail.

Opening Devotion

The book of Joshua ends not just with victories and settlements, but with something even greater—God’s promises kept.

Joshua 21:45 says plainly: “Not one of all the Lord’s good promises to Israel failed; every one was fulfilled.” That’s not a small statement. It’s a bold, sweeping reminder that through battles, wandering, doubt, and waiting—God remained faithful.

In Joshua 23:14, an aging Joshua tells the people: “You know with all your heart and soul that not one of all the good promises the Lord your God gave you has failed.” He says, in essence, “You’ve seen it. You’ve lived it. Don’t forget it.”

Joshua didn’t just pass down land or laws—he passed down trust in a promise-keeping God. And for a time, the people followed faithfully. That’s the kind of legacy worth leaving.

Devotional Thought

A farmer once kept a journal for over fifty years. He wrote notes about rain, harvests, good years, and bad ones. One day, his grandson asked what the point was. The old man smiled and said, “So I never forget who really brings the harvest.”

Looking back over a long life, many of us could say the same. There were seasons of waiting, of worry, of wondering—but God kept His word. Maybe not always how we expected, but always for our good.

Sometimes it helps to pause and remember: God has never failed you. He has walked with you through the storms, through sickness and change, through the valleys and joys.

Matthew Henry once wrote, “God’s promises are dated, but with a mysterious character; and for want of reading it, we often miss the time of performance.” In other words, His promises come true—just not always on our schedule.

Now we have the chance to pass that truth on: He was faithful to us. He will be faithful to them.

Culture Connection

Today’s culture often doubts what it cannot control. Promises are broken with ease, and commitments change with feelings. Faith in anything—especially a faithful God—is seen by many as outdated.

But we are living proof that God keeps His word.

Our lives, though not perfect, testify to His steady hand and unshakable grace. And in a world that’s quick to forget, our stories matter. The way we trust, the way we talk about God's goodness, and the way we keep believing—even when life gets hard—becomes a witness.

In a time of uncertainty, our confidence in God's promises offers something solid to stand on. Let our legacy be this: Not one word has failed. And we still trust Him.

Session 1: The God Who Goes Before Us — Joshua 1–2

Session 2: When God Makes a Way — Joshua 3–4

Session 3: God at the Center — Joshua 5–6

Session 4: God’s Holiness and Our Renewal — Joshua 7–8

Session 5: The God Who Fights for His People — Joshua 9–10

Session 6: God, the Faithful Warrior — Joshua 11–12

Session 7: The God Who Keeps His Promises — Joshua 13–14

Session 8: Living in the Promise — Joshua 15–17

Session 9: A Just and Merciful God — Joshua 18–20

Session 10: Faithfulness Across the Finish Line — Joshua 21–22

Session 11: A Lasting Legacy of Faithfulness — Joshua 23

Session 12: Serving the Lord in Every Generation — Joshua 24

Session 13: The God Who Never Fails — Joshua 21:43–45; 23:14; 24:31

Bible Study Class — Joshua's, Trusting the God Who Fulfills His Promises

"learning to praise God with our trust for the road ahead"

Book Overview

The book of Joshua stands as a powerful narrative of faith, courage, and the fulfillment of God’s promises. It tells the story of the Israelites as they enter the land God pledged to their ancestors, under the leadership of Joshua, a man of conviction and trust. Moving from the wilderness into a new inheritance, Joshua invites readers of every generation to witness what it means to walk confidently in God’s leading. As the well-known preacher Charles Swindoll has said, “Joshua reminds us that victories in life come not by our own strength, but by relying on God every step of the way.”

Five Subjects of Interest

Courage in the Face of Uncertainty: Joshua is repeatedly commanded, “Be strong and courageous” (Joshua 1:9). His journey reflects how faith can conquer fear.

Leadership and Obedience: The book demonstrates the difference a committed leader makes and reminds us how obedience leads to blessing.

God’s Faithfulness: Joshua witnesses the fulfillment of promises made to Abraham centuries before. Noted historian F.F. Bruce commented, “The land promises are more than ancient history; they are a testament to the enduring reliability of God’s word.”

Unity and Community: The tribes of Israel were called to work together, showing the power of unity for God’s people.

Renewal and Commitment: Joshua urges the Israelites to dedicate themselves anew to the Lord, declaring, “As for me and my house, we will serve the Lord” (Joshua 24:15).

Timeless Wisdom for Today

The book of Joshua offers wisdom that transcends its ancient context. It reminds us that God keeps His promises, equips ordinary people for extraordinary tasks, and values faithful response over flawless performance. As pastor Adrian Rogers once observed, “Faith that moves forward always faces obstacles, but God’s presence goes before us.”

Practical Applications in Christian Living

From Joshua’s example, we learn to trust God’s guidance one step at a time, to support and encourage each other in community, and to remember that spiritual growth often means leaving comfort zones behind. These lessons offer practical encouragement, whether navigating new beginnings or facing challenges common to every stage of life.

Why this Book Matters

Studying Joshua is not just about ancient events; it’s about finding hope, perseverance, and renewed faith for today. It reminds us that every believer—even in their later years—can walk boldly into the promises of God. In Joshua, we see that finishing well is not about age, but about faithfulness and trust in the One who leads us.

(New Series Starts Here)

A Journey of Faith, Courage, and God's Promises - The Book of Joshua

The Book of Joshua chronicles the Israelites' journey into the Promised Land, highlighting God's faithfulness, the importance of obedience, and the necessity of courageous leadership. Pastor Rick Warren notes, "Joshua's story teaches us that victory comes through faith in God and adherence to His commands." This study reveals timeless principles of trusting God's promises, the power of unity, and the fulfillment of God's plans.

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Session 1: “Be Strong and Courageous”- Joshua 1-2
Printable Download
READ- Joshua 1-2 -God commissions Joshua, Rahab and the spies, Trusting in God’s promises

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OVERVIEW

In Session 1, we will explore Joshua 1-2, which recounts the commissioning of Joshua as Moses' successor and the spies' mission to Jericho. These chapters emphasize the themes of courage, strength, and trust in God's promises. Through this study, we will gain insights into God's encouragement to Joshua to lead the Israelites into the Promised Land and the faith of Rahab in protecting the spies.

Key Verses:

Joshua 1:9: "Have I not commanded you? Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged, for the Lord your God will be with you wherever you go."

Joshua 2:11: "When we heard of it, our hearts melted in fear and everyone’s courage failed because of you, for the Lord your God is God in heaven above and on the earth below."

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NEW TESTAMENT CONNECTION

God's Encouragement to Joshua:

Joshua 1:9: "Have I not commanded you? Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged, for the Lord your God will be with you wherever you go."

Tell the Story: God commissions Joshua to lead the Israelites into the Promised Land, encouraging him to be strong and courageous and assuring him of His constant presence.

New Testament Connection: Matthew 28:20: "And surely I am with you always, to the very end of the age." Jesus assures His disciples of His constant presence, similar to God's assurance to Joshua.

Rahab's Faith and Courage:

Joshua 2:11: "When we heard of it, our hearts melted in fear and everyone’s courage failed because of you, for the Lord your God is God in heaven above and on the earth below."

Tell the Story: Rahab, a resident of Jericho, hides the Israelite spies and expresses her faith in the God of Israel, demonstrating courage and trust in His power.

New Testament Connection: Hebrews 11:31: "By faith the prostitute Rahab, because she welcomed the spies, was not killed with those who were disobedient." Rahab's faith is highlighted as an example of trust in God.

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THOUGHT BY THOUGHT

Joshua 1 – God's Commission to Joshua: God commissions Joshua to lead the Israelites after Moses' death, encouraging him to be strong and courageous. God promises to be with Joshua, just as He was with Moses, and instructs him to follow the law closely. "Have I not commanded you? Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged, for the Lord your God will be with you wherever you go" (Joshua 1:9). This passage emphasizes the importance of courage, trust, and obedience in fulfilling God's purposes. Pastor Charles Stanley remarks, "God's presence with us provides the strength and courage we need to face life's challenges."

Joshua 2 – Rahab and the Spies: Joshua sends two spies to explore Jericho, where they are hidden by Rahab, a resident of the city. Rahab expresses her faith in the God of Israel and pleads for the safety of her family. The spies agree to her request, and Rahab helps them escape. "When we heard of it, our hearts melted in fear and everyone’s courage failed because of you, for the Lord your God is God in heaven above and on the earth below" (Joshua 2:11). This story highlights the themes of faith, courage, and God's protection. Theologian John Calvin noted, "Rahab's faith led her to risk her life for the people of God, and she was rewarded for her trust in His power."

By studying these chapters, we can gain a deeper understanding of the principles of courage, faith, and trust in God's promises. Reflecting on God's encouragement to Joshua and Rahab's courageous faith helps us appreciate the importance of relying on God's strength and presence in our own lives.

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THINK ABOUT THIS

Have you ever faced a situation where you felt completely unprepared or overwhelmed? Maybe it was starting a new job, moving to a new place, or stepping into an unfamiliar role. Fear and uncertainty can be powerful emotions, but in Joshua 1, God reminds Joshua (and us!) to "Be strong and courageous."

Think about a time when you had to step out in faith, even when you felt afraid. Maybe you had to trust God in a season of change, or maybe He called you to do something outside of your comfort zone. How did God show up for you in that moment?

Joshua wasn’t given courage because he was strong on his own. His strength came from trusting that God would be with him every step of the way. God didn’t promise Joshua an easy path—He promised His presence. And that is still true for us today.

Rahab, in chapter 2, also had to make a courageous choice. She risked her life to protect the Israelite spies because she believed in the power of their God. That took faith! When have you had to trust God even when you didn’t know how things would turn out?

A Few Thoughts to Hold On To:

Courage isn’t the absence of fear—it’s choosing to trust God in the face of fear.

God’s promises are bigger than our problems.

Just like Joshua and Rahab, we can take bold steps of faith because God is with us.

A Quote to Remember:

"Courage is not simply one of the virtues, but the form of every virtue at the testing point." — C.S. Lewis

Or this one from Corrie ten Boom: "Never be afraid to trust an unknown future to a known God."

Take a moment to reflect: Where is God calling you to be strong and courageous in your life today?

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LEAD-IN QUESTION: "When was the last time you had to step into a leadership role that made you nervous?"

- Share this relatable story: "Sarah, age 72, became the primary caregiver for her husband with Alzheimer's. Though terrified initially, she found strength she didn't know she had, just as Joshua had to find courage to lead after Moses."

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DISCUSSION QUESTION:

"What specific promises did God make to Joshua in chapter 1?" - Focus on verses 1:5-9, highlighting God's promises of presence ("I will never leave you") and victory ("No one will be able to stand against you"). This reinforces God's faithfulness to seniors facing their own challenges.

"How many times does God tell Joshua to be 'strong and courageous'? Why do you think He repeated this?" - God says it three times (verses 6, 7, and 9), suggesting Joshua needed this reminder - just as we often need repeated reassurance in our daily walks.

"What role did Rahab play in this story, and what does her story tell us about God's grace?" - Despite her background, Rahab's faith led to her becoming part of Jesus' lineage. This demonstrates how God can use anyone, regardless of their past or age.

"What does Joshua 1:8 tell us about the importance of God's Word? How can we apply this today?" - Discuss practical ways seniors can incorporate Scripture into their daily routines, even with memory or vision challenges.

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APPLY THIS CONTENT

Christians today can apply the content from Joshua 1-2 by embracing the call to be strong and courageous in their own lives. Just as God encouraged Joshua to lead with confidence and trust in His promises, we too can find strength and courage in God's constant presence and guidance. "Have I not commanded you? Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged, for the Lord your God will be with you wherever you go" (Joshua 1:9). This powerful encouragement reminds us that we are never alone and that God's strength is always available to us. Pastor Charles Stanley emphasizes, "God's presence with us provides the strength and courage we need to face life's challenges."

Additionally, Rahab's faith and bravery teach us the importance of trusting God's power and taking bold steps of faith. Rahab's willingness to hide the spies and declare her belief in the God of Israel demonstrates how faith can lead to remarkable outcomes. "When we heard of it, our hearts melted in fear and everyone’s courage failed because of you, for the Lord your God is God in heaven above and on the earth below" (Joshua 2:11). Her story encourages us to take courageous actions and trust in God's protection and provision. Hebrews 11:31 highlights Rahab's faith: "By faith the prostitute Rahab, because she welcomed the spies, was not killed with those who were disobedient."

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SERIOUSLY THINKING- Growing Traits in the Person Who Learns from- Joshua 1-2

Trait →Description →Scripture Reference

—Be Strong and Courageous →Acting boldly in faith, trusting God’s presence and promises even in uncertainty or challenge. →Joshua 1:6-9

—Obedience to God’s Word →Carefully following God’s instructions, not deviating from His commands, and making Scripture central to life. →Joshua 1:7-8

—Perseverance →Continuing steadfastly through adversity, relying on God’s strength rather than personal ability. →Joshua 1:9; James 1:3-4

—Faith in God’s Presence →Living with confidence that God is always with you, which dispels fear and discouragement. →Joshua 1:9

—Leadership by Example →Inspiring and encouraging others to trust God, passing on faith and courage through words and actions. →Joshua 1:6; 10:25

—Meditation on God’s Law →Regularly reflecting on Scripture, allowing it to shape thoughts, actions, and character. →Joshua 1:8

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TAKE-HOME THOUGHT

The bigger picture of God’s plan associated with Joshua 1-2 reveals His unwavering commitment to His promises and His desire for His people to trust in Him fully. God's commissioning of Joshua and the encouragement to be strong and courageous reflect His faithfulness and assurance that He will be with us in every step of our journey. This teaches us that God's promises are steadfast, and His presence is a constant source of strength and courage in our lives.

Reflecting on Rahab's story, we see that God's plan often involves unexpected individuals who demonstrate remarkable faith and courage. Rahab's inclusion in the lineage of Jesus (Matthew 1:5) reminds us that God can use anyone, regardless of their past, to fulfill His purposes. This encourages us to trust in God's ability to work through our lives, even in seemingly ordinary or challenging circumstances.

By understanding and embracing these truths, we can find hope, direction, and purpose in our relationship with God. Our commitment to being strong and courageous, trusting in God's promises, and taking bold steps of faith not only strengthens our relationship with Him but also allows us to witness the fulfillment of His purposes in our lives. Embracing the lessons from Joshua 1-2 helps us navigate the complexities of life with confidence and assurance, knowing that God is always with us and His plans are perfect.

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Session 2: “Crossing Over”- Joshua 3-4
Printable Download
- Joshua 3-4 - The crossing of the Jordan River, Memorial stones as a reminder of God’s faithfulness

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OVERVIEW

In Session 2, we will explore Joshua 3-4, which recounts the miraculous crossing of the Jordan River by the Israelites as they enter the Promised Land. These chapters emphasize God's power and faithfulness in leading His people and the importance of remembering His works. Through this study, we will gain insights into God's guidance, the significance of faith, and the importance of memorials to remember God's acts.

Key Verses:

Joshua 3:5: "Joshua told the people, 'Consecrate yourselves, for tomorrow the Lord will do amazing things among you.'"

Joshua 4:7: "These stones are to be a memorial to the people of Israel forever."

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NEW TESTAMENT CONNECTION

God's Power and Faithfulness:

Joshua 3:5: "Joshua told the people, 'Consecrate yourselves, for tomorrow the Lord will do amazing things among you.'"

Tell the Story: Joshua commands the people to prepare themselves because God is about to perform a miracle by stopping the waters of the Jordan River so they can cross on dry ground.

New Testament Connection: Matthew 19:26: "Jesus looked at them and said, 'With man this is impossible, but with God all things are possible.'" This highlights God's power to accomplish what seems impossible to humans.

The Importance of Memorials:

Joshua 4:7: "These stones are to be a memorial to the people of Israel forever."

Tell the Story: After crossing the Jordan, Joshua instructs twelve men to take twelve stones from the riverbed and set them up as a memorial to remind future generations of God's miraculous help.

New Testament Connection: Luke 22:19: "And he took bread, gave thanks and broke it, and gave it to them, saying, 'This is my body given for you; do this in remembrance of me.'" Jesus institutes the Lord's Supper as a memorial of His sacrifice.

Faith in God's Guidance:

Joshua 3:17: "The priests who carried the ark of the covenant of the Lord stopped in the middle of the Jordan and stood on dry ground, while all Israel passed by until the whole nation had completed the crossing on dry ground."

Tell the Story: The priests carrying the Ark of the Covenant step into the Jordan, and the waters stop flowing, allowing the entire nation to cross on dry ground.

New Testament Connection: Hebrews 11:29: "By faith the people passed through the Red Sea as on dry land; but when the Egyptians tried to do so, they were drowned." This parallels the Israelites' crossing of the Jordan and the Red Sea, emphasizing faith in God's guidance.

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THOUGHT BY THOUGHT

Joshua 3 – Crossing the Jordan: Joshua prepares the Israelites for the miraculous crossing of the Jordan River. He instructs the people to consecrate themselves and follow the priests carrying the Ark of the Covenant. As the priests step into the river, the waters stop, allowing the Israelites to cross on dry ground. "Joshua told the people, 'Consecrate yourselves, for tomorrow the Lord will do amazing things among you'" (Joshua 3:5). This passage highlights the importance of preparation, faith, and obedience in witnessing God's miracles. Pastor Charles Stanley remarks, "When we consecrate ourselves and trust in God's guidance, we open the door for Him to work powerfully in our lives."

Joshua 4 – Setting Up Memorial Stones: After crossing the Jordan, Joshua instructs twelve men to take stones from the riverbed and set them up as a memorial. This act serves as a reminder to future generations of God's miraculous help and faithfulness. "These stones are to be a memorial to the people of Israel forever" (Joshua 4:7). This chapter emphasizes the importance of remembering and commemorating God's works in our lives. Theologian John Calvin noted, "Memorials serve to remind us of God's faithfulness and encourage us to trust Him in all circumstances."

By studying these chapters, we can gain a deeper understanding of the principles of faith, remembrance, and obedience. Reflecting on the crossing of the Jordan and the setting up of memorial stones helps us appreciate the significance of trusting in God's guidance and remembering His mighty works.

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THINK ABOUT THIS: REMEMBERING GOD’S FAITHFULNESS

Have you ever kept a souvenir from a special trip? Maybe a postcard, a shell from the beach, or even a ticket stub? These small things remind us of where we’ve been and the memories we made.

In Joshua 3-4, God tells the Israelites to take 12 stones from the middle of the Jordan River and stack them as a reminder of how He brought them safely across. These stones weren’t just decoration—they were proof of God’s power and faithfulness. Every time someone saw them, they would remember: God made a way when there was no way!

We all have “Jordan River” moments—times when God has helped us cross from fear to faith, from trouble to peace, or from uncertainty to trust. What are your “stones of remembrance”? Maybe it’s a Bible verse that helped you through a hard time, a song that lifted your spirit, or even a story of God’s goodness in your life.

"Remember the wonders He has done, His miracles, and the judgments He pronounced."—1 Chronicles 16:12 (NIV)

Just like the Israelites, we need reminders of how God has worked in our lives. Take a moment to think: What is one way God has been faithful to you? How can you use that memory to encourage someone else?

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LEAD-IN QUESTION: "When was a time you had to step out in faith, not knowing exactly how things would work out?"

- Share the story of Truett Cathy starting Chick-fil-A with just one small diner, taking a leap of faith to create a different kind of restaurant with Christian values - closing on Sundays despite potential profit loss.

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DISCUSSION QUESTION:

"What specific instructions did God give the Israelites about crossing the Jordan? Why do you think He chose this particular method?" - Focus on Joshua 3:3-4. God's instructions required trust - the priests had to step into the water before it parted. This demonstrates how faith often requires action before seeing results.

"The Israelites were told to stay 1000 yards behind the ark. What might this distance teach us about reverence for God?" - The physical distance reinforced God's holiness and helped the entire nation witness the miracle. Compare to modern worship - balancing intimacy with God while maintaining appropriate reverence.

"What's the significance of the twelve stones they were commanded to take from the river?" - The stones served as a memorial (Joshua 4:6-7). Discuss how we maintain reminders of God's faithfulness in our own lives - through photos, journals, or sharing stories with younger generations.

"How might this crossing have prepared the Israelites for taking Jericho?" - This miracle demonstrated God's power and built their faith for future challenges. Connect to how God often prepares us for bigger challenges through smaller acts of faithfulness.

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APPLY THIS CONTENT

Christians today can apply the content from Joshua 3-4 by recognizing the importance of faith, preparation, and remembering God's past works in their lives. Just as the Israelites were instructed to consecrate themselves before crossing the Jordan, we too can prepare our hearts and minds for the amazing things God wants to do in our lives. This involves seeking a deeper relationship with God through prayer, reading the Bible, and living a life of holiness. "Joshua told the people, 'Consecrate yourselves, for tomorrow the Lord will do amazing things among you'" (Joshua 3:5). Pastor Charles Stanley emphasizes, "When we consecrate ourselves and trust in God's guidance, we open the door for Him to work powerfully in our lives."

Additionally, the memorial stones set up by the Israelites after crossing the Jordan serve as a reminder of God's faithfulness and power. We can create our own "memorials" by keeping a journal of answered prayers, sharing testimonies of God's goodness, or simply reflecting on the ways God has worked in our lives. This helps to strengthen our faith and encourages us to trust God in future challenges. "These stones are to be a memorial to the people of Israel forever" (Joshua 4:7). Theologian John Calvin noted, "Memorials serve to remind us of God's faithfulness and encourage us to trust Him in all circumstances."

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SERIOUSLY THINKING- Growing Traits in the Person Who Learns from- Joshua 3-4

Trait →Description →Scripture Reference

—Faith in God’s Power →Trusting God to do what seems impossible and stepping forward even when the path is unclear. →Joshua 3:13–17

—Willingness to Transition →Being open to leaving comfort zones and embracing new seasons or challenges as God leads. →Joshua 3:1–4

—Obedience to Divine Guidance →Following God’s instructions precisely, even when they differ from past experiences or expectations. →Joshua 3:3–6

—Remembrance and Testimony →Creating tangible reminders of God’s faithfulness and sharing those stories with future generations. →Joshua 4:6–7, 20–24

—Reverence for God’s Presence →Maintaining a sense of awe and respect for God’s holiness, symbolized by the Ark leading the way and requiring distance. →Joshua 3:3–4

—Community Participation →Moving together in unity, recognizing that God’s miracles often involve the faith and action of the whole community. →Joshua 3:14–17

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TAKE-HOME THOUGHT

The bigger picture of God’s plan associated with Joshua 3-4 reveals His faithfulness in fulfilling His promises and His desire for His people to trust Him fully. The miraculous crossing of the Jordan River demonstrates God's power and His commitment to leading His people into the Promised Land. This teaches us that God is always with us, guiding and providing for us, even in seemingly impossible situations. "With man this is impossible, but with God all things are possible" (Matthew 19:26).

Reflecting on the memorial stones, we see that God wants us to remember His works and share them with future generations. This encourages us to keep our faith strong and to rely on God's power in all aspects of our lives. By setting up "memorials" of God's faithfulness, we can constantly remind ourselves and others of His goodness and His ability to work wonders. "Do this in remembrance of me" (Luke 22:19). These reminders help us stay grounded in our faith and encourage us to trust God in every situation.

By understanding and embracing these truths, we can find hope, direction, and purpose in our relationship with God. Our commitment to faith, preparation, and remembrance not only strengthens our relationship with Him but also allows us to witness the fulfillment of His purposes in our lives. Embracing the lessons from Joshua 3-4 helps us navigate the complexities of life with confidence and assurance, knowing that God is always with us and His plans are perfect.

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Session 3: “The Commander of the Lord’s Army”- Joshua 5-6
Printable Download
- Joshua 5-6 - Circumcision and Passover celebrated, The fall of Jericho, Obedience and God's power

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OVERVIEW

In Session 3, we will explore Joshua 5-6, which recounts the preparation of the Israelites for the conquest of Jericho and their encounter with the Commander of the Lord's Army. These chapters highlight God's guidance, the importance of obedience, and the miraculous victory at Jericho. Through this study, we will gain insights into the significance of divine leadership and the power of faith.

Key Verses:

Joshua 5:13-14: "Now when Joshua was near Jericho, he looked up and saw a man standing in front of him with a drawn sword in his hand. Joshua went up to him and asked, 'Are you for us or for our enemies?' 'Neither,' he replied, 'but as commander of the army of the Lord I have now come.' Then Joshua fell facedown to the ground in reverence, and asked him, 'What message does my Lord have for his servant?'"

Joshua 6:20: "When the trumpets sounded, the army shouted, and at the sound of the trumpet, when the men gave a loud shout, the wall collapsed; so everyone charged straight in, and they took the city."

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NEW TESTAMENT CONNECTION

Divine Leadership:

Joshua 5:13-14: "Now when Joshua was near Jericho, he looked up and saw a man standing in front of him with a drawn sword in his hand. Joshua went up to him and asked, 'Are you for us or for our enemies?' 'Neither,' he replied, 'but as commander of the army of the Lord I have now come.' Then Joshua fell facedown to the ground in reverence, and asked him, 'What message does my Lord have for his servant?'"

Tell the Story: Joshua encounters the Commander of the Lord's Army, who assures Joshua of divine leadership and guidance for the upcoming battle.

New Testament Connection: Revelation 19:11-16 describes Jesus as the rider on a white horse, leading the armies of heaven, emphasizing the theme of divine leadership and victory.

Obedience to God's Instructions:

Joshua 6:3-4: "March around the city once with all the armed men. Do this for six days. Have seven priests carry trumpets of rams' horns in front of the ark. On the seventh day, march around the city seven times, with the priests blowing the trumpets."

Tell the Story: God gives Joshua specific instructions for the Israelites to march around Jericho, emphasizing the importance of obedience to His commands.

New Testament Connection: John 14:15: "If you love me, keep my commands." Jesus emphasizes the importance of obedience as an expression of love for God.

Faith and Victory:

Joshua 6:20: "When the trumpets sounded, the army shouted, and at the sound of the trumpet, when the men gave a loud shout, the wall collapsed; so everyone charged straight in, and they took the city."

Tell the Story: The Israelites' faith and obedience lead to the miraculous collapse of Jericho's walls, demonstrating God's power and faithfulness.

New Testament Connection: Hebrews 11:30: "By faith the walls of Jericho fell, after the army had marched around them for seven days." This highlights the power of faith in achieving victory.

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THOUGHT BY THOUGHT

Joshua 5 – Encounter with the Commander of the Lord's Army: As Joshua prepares for the battle of Jericho, he encounters the Commander of the Lord's Army, who assures him of divine leadership and guidance. "Now when Joshua was near Jericho, he looked up and saw a man standing in front of him with a drawn sword in his hand. Joshua went up to him and asked, 'Are you for us or for our enemies?' 'Neither,' he replied, 'but as commander of the army of the Lord I have now come.'" (Joshua 5:13-14). This passage emphasizes the importance of recognizing and submitting to God's leadership in our lives. Pastor Charles Stanley notes, "God's presence with us provides the strength and courage we need to face life's challenges."

Joshua 6 – The Fall of Jericho: God gives Joshua specific instructions for the Israelites to march around Jericho for seven days, with the priests blowing trumpets. On the seventh day, the walls of Jericho collapse, and the Israelites take the city. "When the trumpets sounded, the army shouted, and at the sound of the trumpet, when the men gave a loud shout, the wall collapsed; so everyone charged straight in, and they took the city" (Joshua 6:20). This story highlights the importance of faith and obedience in achieving victory. Theologian John Calvin observed, "Faith and obedience to God's commands are essential for witnessing His miraculous works and experiencing His power."

By studying these chapters, we can gain a deeper understanding of the principles of divine leadership, obedience, and faith. Reflecting on the encounter with the Commander of the Lord's Army and the fall of Jericho helps us appreciate the significance of trusting in God's guidance and faithfully following His instructions.

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THINK ABOUT THIS

Have you ever faced a challenge that seemed impossible? Maybe it was a difficult decision, a personal struggle, or a time when you felt uncertain about the future. Joshua and the Israelites stood before the massive walls of Jericho, wondering how they could ever win the battle. But then, something amazing happened—God’s messenger, the Commander of the Lord’s Army, appeared to Joshua. Instead of offering a military strategy, the Commander reminded Joshua of an important truth: God was in charge of the battle.

This moment was a turning point. Joshua had to recognize that victory would not come from swords, soldiers, or his own wisdom—it would come from trusting and obeying God. The battle of Jericho was won, not by human strength, but by following God’s unusual plan: marching, shouting, and blowing trumpets!

Now, think about your own life. Have you ever faced a "Jericho wall"—something that seemed too big to handle? Maybe God is asking you, like Joshua, to trust Him and follow His direction, even when it doesn’t make sense. The real victory in life comes when we let God take command and lead the way.

“The Lord will fight for you; you need only to be still.” – Exodus 14:14

What’s one area of your life where you need to trust God as your Commander today?

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LEAD-IN QUESTION: "When have you faced what seemed like an impossible situation and had to trust in a greater power?"

- Share the story of Admiral Jim Stockdale, who survived 7+ years as a POW in Vietnam. He later said: "I never lost faith in the end of the story. I never doubted not only that I would get out, but also that I would prevail in the end."

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DISCUSSION QUESTION:

"Why do you think God made Joshua and the Israelites wait seven days at Jericho?" - This question explores themes of patience, obedience, and God's timing versus human timing. The seemingly unusual military strategy challenged conventional wisdom.

"How do you think the people of Jericho felt watching the Israelites march around their city?" - This helps participants consider the perspective of those inside Jericho's walls and how faith can appear foolish to outsiders.

"What 'walls' are you facing in your life right now?" - Encourages personal application by helping seniors connect ancient scripture to their current challenges like health issues, family concerns, or life transitions.

"How does Joshua's encounter with the Commander of the Lord's Army (Joshua 5:13-15) change your understanding of who's really in charge?" - Highlights that even Joshua, a powerful leader, needed to submit to God's authority. This can be especially relevant for seniors reflecting on control and trust.

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APPLY THIS CONTENT

Christians today can apply the content from Joshua 5-6 by recognizing the importance of submitting to God's leadership and trusting in His guidance. Just as Joshua encountered the Commander of the Lord's Army and received assurance of divine leadership, we too can seek God's guidance in our daily lives. This involves acknowledging God's sovereignty and following His instructions faithfully. "Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways submit to him, and he will make your paths straight" (Proverbs 3:5-6). Pastor Rick Warren emphasizes, "God's plan is always the best. Sometimes the process is painful and hard, but don’t forget that when God is silent, He is doing something for you."

Additionally, the story of Jericho teaches us the power of faith and obedience. The Israelites followed God's specific instructions, even when they seemed unusual, and witnessed a miraculous victory. This reminds us to trust in God's ways and be obedient, even when we don't fully understand His plan. "If you love me, keep my commands" (John 14:15). Theologian John Calvin noted, "Faith and obedience to God's commands are essential for witnessing His miraculous works and experiencing His power."

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SERIOUSLY THINKING- Growing Traits in the Person Who Learns from- Joshua 5-6

Trait →Description →Scripture Reference

—Submission to God’s Authority →Recognizing God’s ultimate leadership and submitting personal plans to His will, as Joshua did before Jericho. →Joshua 5:13–15

—Reverence and Worship →Responding to God’s presence with humility and awe, as shown by Joshua removing his sandals and bowing in worship. →Joshua 5:14–15

—Alignment with God’s Purposes →Seeking to align with God’s mission rather than asking God to support personal agendas, acknowledging His sovereignty. →Joshua 5:13–14

—Obedience to Divine Instruction →Following God’s specific and sometimes unusual commands (such as the Jericho strategy), trusting His wisdom over our own. →Joshua 6:2–5

—Confidence in God’s Victory →Trusting that victory comes from God’s presence and power, not human strength or strategy. →Joshua 6:16, 20

—Recognition of Holy Ground →Understanding that God’s presence transforms ordinary places and moments into holy ones, deserving respect and attention. →Joshua 5:15

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TAKE-HOME THOUGHT

The bigger picture of God’s plan associated with Joshua 5-6 reveals His unwavering commitment to leading and protecting His people. The encounter with the Commander of the Lord's Army and the fall of Jericho demonstrate God's desire for His people to trust in His guidance and follow His instructions faithfully. These chapters teach us that God’s leadership is essential for achieving victory and that His presence provides the strength and courage we need to face challenges.

Reflecting on these chapters, we see that God’s plan often involves steps that require faith and obedience. The Israelites’ victory at Jericho was a result of their unwavering trust in God's instructions. This encourages us to embrace a similar attitude of faith and obedience in our own lives, trusting that God’s ways are higher than our ways and His plans are perfect. "For I know the plans I have for you," declares the Lord, "plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future" (Jeremiah 29:11).

By understanding and embracing these truths, we can find hope, direction, and purpose in our relationship with God. Our commitment to submitting to His leadership, trusting His guidance, and faithfully following His instructions not only strengthens our relationship with Him but also allows us to witness the fulfillment of His purposes in our lives. Embracing the lessons from Joshua 5-6 helps us navigate the complexities of life with confidence and assurance, knowing that God is always with us and His plans are perfect.

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Session 4: “Failure and Renewal”- Joshua 7-8
Printable Download
- Joshua 7-8 - The sin of Achan and Israel’s defeat at Ai, Repentance and victory through obedience

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OVERVIEW

In Session 4, we will explore Joshua 7-8, which detail the events surrounding Israel's initial defeat at Ai and their subsequent victory after addressing sin in the camp. These chapters emphasize the themes of failure, repentance, and renewal through obedience to God. Through this study, we will gain insights into the consequences of sin, the importance of repentance, and the power of God's guidance and forgiveness.

Key Verses:

Joshua 7:12: "That is why the Israelites cannot stand against their enemies; they turn their backs and run because they have been made liable to destruction. I will not be with you anymore unless you destroy whatever among you is devoted to destruction."

Joshua 8:1: "Then the Lord said to Joshua, 'Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged. Take the whole army with you, and go up and attack Ai. For I have delivered into your hands the king of Ai, his people, his city, and his land.'"

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NEW TESTAMENT CONNECTION

Consequences of Sin:

Joshua 7:12: "That is why the Israelites cannot stand against their enemies; they turn their backs and run because they have been made liable to destruction. I will not be with you anymore unless you destroy whatever among you is devoted to destruction."

Tell the Story: The Israelites are defeated at Ai because of Achan's sin of taking forbidden items. This event highlights the seriousness of sin and its consequences.

New Testament Connection: Romans 6:23: "For the wages of sin is death, but the gift of God is eternal life in Christ Jesus our Lord." This verse underscores the consequences of sin and the hope of redemption through Christ.

Repentance and Renewal:

Joshua 7:13: "Go, consecrate the people. Tell them, 'Consecrate yourselves in preparation for tomorrow; for this is what the Lord, the God of Israel, says: There are devoted things among you, Israel. You cannot stand against your enemies until you remove them.'"

Tell the Story: Joshua instructs the people to consecrate themselves and remove the sin from their midst. This act of repentance leads to renewal and victory.

New Testament Connection: 1 John 1:9: "If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just and will forgive us our sins and purify us from all unrighteousness." This verse emphasizes the importance of confession and repentance for receiving God's forgiveness.

God's Guidance and Victory:

Joshua 8:1: "Then the Lord said to Joshua, 'Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged. Take the whole army with you, and go up and attack Ai. For I have delivered into your hands the king of Ai, his people, his city, and his land.'"

Tell the Story: After dealing with the sin in the camp, God reassures Joshua and provides guidance for a renewed attack on Ai, leading to victory.

New Testament Connection: Romans 8:37: "No, in all these things we are more than conquerors through him who loved us." This verse highlights the victory and guidance we have through Christ.

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THOUGHT BY THOUGHT

Joshua 7 – Failure and Consequences of Sin: The Israelites suffer a defeat at Ai due to Achan's sin of taking forbidden items. God reveals to Joshua that sin in the camp has caused their defeat and that it must be dealt with. "That is why the Israelites cannot stand against their enemies; they turn their backs and run because they have been made liable to destruction. I will not be with you anymore unless you destroy whatever among you is devoted to destruction" (Joshua 7:12). This passage highlights the seriousness of sin and the importance of addressing it promptly. Pastor Charles Stanley remarks, "Sin in our lives hinders our relationship with God and affects our ability to experience His blessings."

Joshua 8 – Renewal and Victory: After dealing with the sin in the camp, God reassures Joshua and provides guidance for a renewed attack on Ai. The Israelites follow God's instructions, leading to a decisive victory. "Then the Lord said to Joshua, 'Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged. Take the whole army with you, and go up and attack Ai. For I have delivered into your hands the king of Ai, his people, his city, and his land'" (Joshua 8:1). This story emphasizes the importance of repentance, obedience, and relying on God's guidance for victory. Theologian John Calvin noted, "True renewal comes through repentance and faithful obedience to God's commands."

By studying these chapters, we can gain a deeper understanding of the principles of dealing with sin, seeking repentance, and experiencing renewal through God's guidance. Reflecting on the events at Ai helps us appreciate the significance of addressing sin, trusting in God's forgiveness, and following His guidance for victory in our own lives.

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THINK ABOUT THIS: “Failure Is Not the End”

Have you ever made a mistake that left you feeling embarrassed or defeated? Maybe you said something you regretted, made a poor decision, or let someone down. Failure can feel like a heavy weight, making us think that we are beyond fixing. But Joshua 7-8 reminds us that failure is not the end of the story—God offers renewal and a fresh start.

In Joshua 7, we read about Achan’s sin, which led to Israel’s defeat. It was a painful moment, but instead of abandoning His people, God guided them toward repentance and restoration. In Joshua 8, Israel was given another chance, and this time, they walked in obedience and saw victory. This pattern is true in our lives, too—failure does not mean we are finished. God can redeem our mistakes and lead us forward.

Have you ever faced a moment when you thought failure had disqualified you? How did you experience God’s grace in that time?

Remember, even when we stumble, God is faithful to restore us when we turn to Him.

Encouraging Quotes

“Failure is not fatal, but failure to change might be.” — John Wooden

“Success is not final, failure is not fatal: it is the courage to continue that counts.” — Winston Churchill

“God never allows our failures to be the end of the story. His grace rewrites our mistakes into testimonies of His goodness.”

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LEAD-IN QUESTION: "When was the last time you had to face the consequences of a poor choice? How did you handle it?"

- "In 2023, a pastor shared how he had become addicted to his phone, constantly checking emails and social media instead of being present with his family. After his daughter said 'Dad, you love your phone more than me,' he realized he needed to make changes. He set boundaries, created phone-free times, and restored his relationships."

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DISCUSSION QUESTION:

"Why did one person's sin (Achan) affect the entire Israelite community?" - This highlights the interconnected nature of community and how individual choices can impact others. Consider modern examples like how one person's dishonesty in a workplace can affect the entire team's trust and effectiveness.

"What steps did Joshua and the people take to address their failure at Ai?" - Focus on the process: confession, repentance, removing sin, and seeking God's guidance. This pattern remains relevant for personal and communal spiritual renewal.

"How does God's response to Israel's repentance reveal His character?" - Emphasize God's faithfulness in restoration while maintaining justice. Note how He provides a second chance at Ai but requires dealing with sin first.

"What can we learn from this passage about handling personal and community failures?" - Draw parallels to modern church life - the importance of accountability, honest confession, and supporting each other through restoration.

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APPLY THIS CONTENT

Christians today can apply the content from Joshua 7-8 by understanding the importance of recognizing and addressing sin in their lives, seeking repentance, and experiencing renewal through obedience to God. The story of Israel's defeat at Ai due to Achan's sin reminds us that sin has serious consequences, and it can hinder our relationship with God. "For the wages of sin is death, but the gift of God is eternal life in Christ Jesus our Lord" (Romans 6:23). Pastor Charles Stanley emphasizes, "Sin in our lives hinders our relationship with God and affects our ability to experience His blessings."

Additionally, the process of repentance and renewal demonstrated by the Israelites serves as a powerful example for us. After dealing with the sin in the camp, God reassures Joshua and provides guidance for a renewed attack on Ai, leading to victory. This teaches us the importance of seeking forgiveness, turning away from sin, and trusting in God's guidance for a fresh start. "If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just and will forgive us our sins and purify us from all unrighteousness" (1 John 1:9). Theologian John Calvin noted, "True renewal comes through repentance and faithful obedience to God's commands."

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SERIOUSLY THINKING- Growing Traits in the Person Who Learns from- Joshua 7-8

Trait →Description →Scripture Reference

—Accountability →Recognizing that individual actions impact the whole community and taking responsibility for personal and collective failures. →Joshua 7:1, 11–12

—Honesty and Transparency →Confessing hidden sins rather than concealing them, understanding that nothing is hidden from God. →Joshua 7:20–21, 7:13

—Repentance and Restoration →Turning away from wrongdoing and seeking God’s forgiveness, which leads to renewed relationship and blessing. →Joshua 7:19, 8:30–35

—Reverence for God’s Holiness →Taking God’s commands seriously and respecting His holiness, knowing that disobedience disrupts fellowship and brings consequences. →Joshua 7:1, 7:15

—Learning from Failure →Viewing setbacks as opportunities for growth, correction, and deeper trust in God’s guidance. →Joshua 7:6–10, 8:1

—Dependence on God’s Guidance →Seeking God’s direction before acting, rather than relying on self-confidence or past successes. →Joshua 7:2–4, 8:1

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TAKE-HOME THOUGHT

The bigger picture of God’s plan associated with Joshua 7-8 reveals His commitment to justice, forgiveness, and the renewal of His people. The initial defeat at Ai due to Achan's sin demonstrates the serious nature of disobedience and the need for accountability within the community. This teaches us that God’s justice requires us to address sin and its consequences, but it also offers a path to forgiveness and restoration.

Reflecting on the renewal and victory at Ai, we see that God’s plan for His people includes not only consequences for sin but also opportunities for repentance and renewal. The Israelites' journey from failure to victory serves as a reminder that God is willing to forgive and restore us when we turn to Him with sincere repentance and obedience. "No, in all these things we are more than conquerors through him who loved us" (Romans 8:37). This verse highlights the victory and guidance we have through Christ.

By understanding and embracing these truths, we can find hope, direction, and purpose in our relationship with God. Our commitment to recognizing and addressing sin, seeking repentance, and trusting in God's guidance not only strengthens our relationship with Him but also allows us to experience renewal and victory in our lives. Embracing the lessons from Joshua 7-8 helps us navigate the complexities of life with confidence and assurance, knowing that God is always with us and His plans are perfect.

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Session 5: “Trickery and Promises”- Joshua 9-10
Printable Download
- Joshua 9-10 - The Gibeonite deception, The sun stands still in battle

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OVERVIEW

In Session 5, we will explore Joshua 9-10, which recount the deception of the Gibeonites and the subsequent battles that the Israelites face. These chapters highlight the themes of discernment, keeping promises, and God's intervention in battles. Through this study, we will gain insights into the importance of seeking God's guidance, the significance of honoring commitments, and trusting in God's power.

Key Verses:

Joshua 9:14-15: "The Israelites sampled their provisions but did not inquire of the Lord. Then Joshua made a treaty of peace with them to let them live, and the leaders of the assembly ratified it by oath."

Joshua 10:8: "The Lord said to Joshua, 'Do not be afraid of them; I have given them into your hand. Not one of them will be able to withstand you.'"

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NEW TESTAMENT CONNECTION

The Importance of Seeking God's Guidance:

Joshua 9:14: "The Israelites sampled their provisions but did not inquire of the Lord."

Tell the Story: The Gibeonites deceive the Israelites into making a treaty by pretending to be from a distant land. The Israelites fail to seek God's guidance before making the treaty.

New Testament Connection: James 1:5: "If any of you lacks wisdom, you should ask God, who gives generously to all without finding fault, and it will be given to you." This emphasizes the importance of seeking God's wisdom in decision-making.

Honoring Commitments:

Joshua 9:15: "Then Joshua made a treaty of peace with them to let them live, and the leaders of the assembly ratified it by oath."

Tell the Story: Despite discovering the deception, the Israelites honor their commitment to the Gibeonites because they had sworn an oath.

New Testament Connection: Matthew 5:37: "All you need to say is simply ‘Yes’ or ‘No’; anything beyond this comes from the evil one." Jesus emphasizes the importance of keeping one's word.

God's Intervention in Battles:

Joshua 10:8: "The Lord said to Joshua, 'Do not be afraid of them; I have given them into your hand. Not one of them will be able to withstand you.'"

Tell the Story: The Israelites face a coalition of kings who attack Gibeon. God reassures Joshua and intervenes by causing confusion among the enemies and extending the daylight to ensure victory.

New Testament Connection: Romans 8:31: "If God is for us, who can be against us?" This highlights the assurance of God's support and intervention in our struggles.

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THOUGHT BY THOUGHT

Joshua 9 – The Deception of the Gibeonites: The Gibeonites, fearing the Israelites, deceive them by pretending to be from a distant land. The Israelites, without seeking God's guidance, make a treaty with them. "The Israelites sampled their provisions but did not inquire of the Lord. Then Joshua made a treaty of peace with them to let them live, and the leaders of the assembly ratified it by oath" (Joshua 9:14-15). This passage underscores the importance of seeking God's guidance before making decisions. Pastor Charles Stanley remarks, "When we fail to seek God's wisdom, we are more likely to be deceived and make decisions that are not in line with His will."

Joshua 10 – The Battle with the Amorite Kings: A coalition of Amorite kings attacks Gibeon because of their treaty with Israel. Joshua leads the Israelites to defend Gibeon, and God intervenes miraculously by causing confusion among the enemies and extending the daylight to ensure victory. "The Lord said to Joshua, 'Do not be afraid of them; I have given them into your hand. Not one of them will be able to withstand you'" (Joshua 10:8). This story emphasizes the importance of honoring commitments and trusting in God's power to intervene on our behalf. Theologian John Calvin noted, "God's intervention in battles reminds us that victory comes from Him and that we must trust in His power and guidance."

By studying these chapters, we can gain a deeper understanding of the principles of seeking God's guidance, honoring commitments, and trusting in God's intervention. Reflecting on the deception of the Gibeonites and the subsequent battles helps us appreciate the significance of relying on God's wisdom and power in our own lives.

Have you ever made a promise without thinking things through? Maybe you agreed to help a friend move, only to realize later that you already had other plans. Or maybe you signed up for something without reading all the details.

In Joshua 9, the Israelites were tricked by the Gibeonites. These people pretended to be from a faraway land so that Israel wouldn’t destroy them. Instead of asking God for guidance, Joshua and the leaders made a peace treaty with them. Later, when the truth came out, Israel had to keep their promise—even though it was based on a lie!

This story reminds us of two important lessons:

Seek God before making decisions. The Israelites forgot to ask God what to do. How many times do we rush into choices without praying first?

Honor our commitments. Even though the Gibeonites were dishonest, Israel kept their word. Our integrity matters to God, and keeping promises—even hard ones—shows our character.

Think about a time when you made a promise without knowing all the facts. How did you handle it? Did you keep your word, or did you try to get out of it?

Quotes to Reflect On

“A promise made is a debt unpaid.” – Robert W. Service

“It is better to say nothing than to make a promise and not keep it.” – Ecclesiastes 5:5 (NLT)

"Integrity is doing the right thing, even when no one is watching." – C.S. Lewis

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LEAD-IN QUESTION: "When was the last time you made a decision without seeking advice or guidance first?"

- Share a brief story about Sarah, an 80-year-old woman who impulsively bought a timeshare during a high-pressure sales presentation without consulting her family or financial advisor. Like the Israelites in Joshua 9, who failed to consult God before making a treaty with the Gibeonites, Sarah learned the importance of seeking wise counsel.

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DISCUSSION QUESTION:

"How did the Gibeonites deceive Joshua and the Israelites?" - This allows participants to explore the detailed deception (worn-out sacks, old wineskins, moldy bread) while discussing how convincing appearances can be misleading.

"What crucial step did Joshua and the leaders skip before making their decision?" - Focus on Joshua 9:14 - "The Israelites sampled their provisions but did not inquire of the Lord." This opens discussion about the importance of prayer in decision-making.

"How did Joshua handle the situation after discovering the deception?" - Emphasize how Joshua honored the treaty despite the deception, highlighting the importance of keeping promises even in difficult circumstances.

"What can we learn from God's response to Joshua's prayer during the battle that followed?" - Discuss God's faithfulness in Joshua 10:12-14 (the sun standing still), showing how God honors those who trust Him, even after mistakes.

"What modern-day situations might tempt us to make hasty decisions without consulting God?" - Encourage sharing of personal experiences with financial decisions, family matters, or health choices where seeking God's guidance is crucial.

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APPLY THIS CONTENT

Christians today can apply the content from Joshua 9-10 by understanding the importance of seeking God's guidance in their decisions and honoring their commitments. The story of the Gibeonites deceiving the Israelites emphasizes the necessity of consulting God before making important decisions. This teaches us to seek wisdom and discernment through prayer and scripture before acting. "If any of you lacks wisdom, you should ask God, who gives generously to all without finding fault, and it will be given to you" (James 1:5). Pastor Charles Stanley remarks, "When we fail to seek God's wisdom, we are more likely to be deceived and make decisions that are not in line with His will."

Additionally, the Israelites' commitment to honoring their treaty with the Gibeonites, despite the deception, underscores the importance of keeping our promises. This principle can guide us in maintaining integrity and trustworthiness in our relationships and commitments. "All you need to say is simply ‘Yes’ or ‘No’; anything beyond this comes from the evil one" (Matthew 5:37). Theologian John Calvin noted, "Keeping our promises reflects our character and our commitment to God’s principles of honesty and integrity."

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SERIOUSLY THINKING- Growing Traits in the Person Who Learns from- Joshua 9-10

Trait →Description →Scripture Reference

—Discernment →Exercising caution and seeking God’s guidance before making decisions, especially when situations appear deceptive. →Joshua 9:14

—Integrity in Keeping Promises →Honoring commitments, even when made under false pretenses, reflecting faithfulness and respect for oaths before God. →Joshua 9:18–20

—Consequences of Rash Choices →Recognizing that failing to consult God can lead to unintended consequences, emphasizing the need for spiritual vigilance. →Joshua 9:14–16

—Mercy and Justice →Balancing justice with mercy, as Joshua spared the Gibeonites but assigned them to serve the community. →Joshua 9:26–27

—Reliance on God’s Intervention →Trusting God to act powerfully on behalf of His people, as seen in miraculous victories and divine intervention. →Joshua 10:10–14

—The Power of Prayer →Understanding that God responds to bold, faithful prayer, as demonstrated when Joshua asked for the sun to stand still. →Joshua 10:12–14

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TAKE-HOME THOUGHT

The bigger picture of God’s plan associated with Joshua 9-10 reveals His desire for His people to seek His guidance, maintain integrity, and trust in His power to overcome challenges. The story of the Gibeonites and the subsequent battles teach us that even in difficult and deceptive situations, we must rely on God’s wisdom and honor our commitments. This reminds us that our relationship with God should be the foundation of all our decisions and actions.

Reflecting on these chapters, we see that God’s intervention in battles demonstrates His power and faithfulness. When the Israelites honored their commitment to the Gibeonites, God supported them and ensured their victory. This encourages us to trust that God will be with us when we act in accordance with His principles, even in challenging circumstances. "If God is for us, who can be against us?" (Romans 8:31). This verse highlights the assurance of God's support and intervention in our struggles.

By understanding and embracing these truths, we can find hope, direction, and purpose in our relationship with God. Our commitment to seeking His guidance, honoring our commitments, and trusting in His power not only strengthens our relationship with Him but also allows us to witness the fulfillment of His purposes in our lives. Embracing the lessons from Joshua 9-10 helps us navigate the complexities of life with confidence and assurance, knowing that God is always with us and His plans are perfect.

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Session 6: “Conquering the Land”- Joshua 11-12
Printable Download
- Joshua 11-12, Defeating the kings, A record of victories

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OVERVIEW

In Session 6, we will explore Joshua 11-12, which recount the Israelites' conquests under Joshua’s leadership as they claim the land promised to them by God. These chapters detail the battles against northern kings and the listing of conquered kings. The emphasis is on God's power, faithfulness, and the fulfillment of His promises. Through this study, we will gain insights into the importance of trusting in God's guidance, the power of unity, and the assurance of God's promises.

Key Verses:

Joshua 11:6: "The Lord said to Joshua, 'Do not be afraid of them, because by this time tomorrow I will hand all of them, slain, over to Israel. You are to hamstring their horses and burn their chariots.'"

Joshua 12:24: "The king of Tirzah, one; thirty-one kings in all."

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NEW TESTAMENT CONNECTION

Trusting in God's Guidance:

Joshua 11:6: "The Lord said to Joshua, 'Do not be afraid of them, because by this time tomorrow I will hand all of them, slain, over to Israel. You are to hamstring their horses and burn their chariots.'"

Tell the Story: God reassures Joshua and instructs him on how to deal with the enemies’ horses and chariots. Joshua follows God's commands, leading to victory.

New Testament Connection: Philippians 4:13: "I can do all this through him who gives me strength." Paul emphasizes the importance of relying on God's strength and guidance in our endeavors.

The Power of Unity and Obedience:

Joshua 11:15: "As the Lord commanded his servant Moses, so Moses commanded Joshua, and Joshua did it; he left nothing undone of all that the Lord commanded Moses."

Tell the Story: Joshua’s obedience to God's instructions and the unity of the Israelite army play crucial roles in their successful conquests.

New Testament Connection: John 17:23: "I in them and you in me—so that they may be brought to complete unity. Then the world will know that you sent me and have loved them even as you have loved me." Jesus prays for unity among His followers, highlighting its importance.

Assurance of God's Promises:

Joshua 12:24: "The king of Tirzah, one; thirty-one kings in all."

Tell the Story: The listing of the thirty-one conquered kings serves as a testament to God's faithfulness in fulfilling His promises to Israel.

New Testament Connection: 2 Corinthians 1:20: "For no matter how many promises God has made, they are 'Yes' in Christ. And so through him the 'Amen' is spoken by us to the glory of God." Paul assures us that God's promises are fulfilled in Christ.

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THOUGHT BY THOUGHT

Joshua 11 – The Northern Conquests: God commands Joshua to lead the Israelites in battle against a coalition of northern kings. God reassures Joshua and provides specific instructions, leading to a decisive victory. "The Lord said to Joshua, 'Do not be afraid of them, because by this time tomorrow I will hand all of them, slain, over to Israel. You are to hamstring their horses and burn their chariots'" (Joshua 11:6). This passage emphasizes the importance of trusting in God's guidance and obeying His commands. Pastor Charles Stanley notes, "When we trust in God's guidance and follow His instructions, we experience His power and victory."

Joshua 12 – List of Conquered Kings: This chapter lists the thirty-one kings conquered by the Israelites under Joshua's leadership. The detailed record serves as a testament to God's faithfulness in fulfilling His promises to Israel. "The king of Tirzah, one; thirty-one kings in all" (Joshua 12:24). This story underscores the assurance of God's promises and the importance of remembering His faithfulness. Theologian John Calvin noted, "The listing of conquered kings stands as a testament to God's unwavering faithfulness in fulfilling His promises to His people."

By studying these chapters, we can gain a deeper understanding of the principles of trusting in God's guidance, the power of unity and obedience, and the assurance of God's promises. Reflecting on the northern conquests and the list of conquered kings helps us appreciate the significance of relying on God's strength and remembering His faithfulness in our own lives.

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THINK ABOUT THIS

Have you ever faced a challenge that seemed way too big for you? Maybe it was a health issue, a financial struggle, or a relationship that seemed impossible to fix. When we face battles like these, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed.

In Joshua 11-12, we see that Israel was up against powerful enemies—many kings and large armies. But through it all, God was in control. He gave them victory, not because they were the strongest, but because they trusted Him.

Just like Joshua and the Israelites, we all face “battles” in life. But God doesn’t expect us to win them alone. He fights for us when we walk in obedience and trust Him.

Take a moment to think:

What battles in your life feel overwhelming right now?

How can you remind yourself that God is in control, just like He was in Joshua’s time?

Encouraging Quotes:

“The Lord himself goes before you and will be with you; he will never leave you nor forsake you. Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged.” — Deuteronomy 31:8

“The battles you face are not bigger than the God who fights for you.” — Unknown

“The horse is made ready for the day of battle, but victory rests with the Lord.” — Proverbs 21:31

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LEAD-IN QUESTION: "When have you faced a challenge that seemed impossible to overcome at first?"

- "Like Colonel Sanders who was rejected by 1,009 restaurants before successfully franchising KFC at age 65, Joshua faced seemingly insurmountable odds in conquering Canaan. Yet both persevered with faith and determination."

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DISCUSSION QUESTION:

"What strikes you about God's promise to Joshua in 11:6 - 'Do not be afraid of them, for by this time tomorrow I will hand all of them, slain, over to Israel'?" - This highlights God's reliability and timing. He didn't just promise victory - He gave a specific timeframe, showing His detailed involvement in our lives.

"Joshua 11:15 says 'He left nothing undone.' What areas of your life need this kind of complete obedience?" - Joshua's thoroughness in following God's commands presents a practical model for daily Christian living. It's not about perfection, but about faithful dedication.

"Looking at Joshua 12's list of defeated kings, what does this tell us about God's faithfulness to His promises?" - This chapter serves as a "victory log" - concrete evidence of God's fulfilled promises. Just as seniors might keep photo albums of life milestones, this passage records God's faithfulness.

"How does Joshua's persistence in these battles encourage you in your current challenges?" - The conquest wasn't quick - it took about 7 years. This can encourage seniors facing their own long-term challenges, whether health-related or otherwise.

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APPLY THIS CONTENT

Christians today can apply the content from Joshua 11-12 by recognizing the importance of trusting in God's guidance and power in their daily lives. Just as God reassured Joshua and provided specific instructions for conquering the land, we too can seek God's guidance in our decisions and trust in His ability to lead us to victory. "I can do all this through him who gives me strength" (Philippians 4:13). Pastor Rick Warren emphasizes, "When you trust God's wisdom and follow His guidance, you experience His power and victory in your life."

Additionally, the unity and obedience of the Israelites in following God's commands highlight the significance of working together in harmony and faithfully adhering to God's instructions. This teaches us the value of unity and cooperation within our communities and the importance of being obedient to God's Word. Jesus prayed for unity among His followers: "I in them and you in me—so that they may be brought to complete unity" (John 17:23). Theologian John Calvin noted, "Unity and obedience to God's commands are essential for witnessing His miraculous works and experiencing His power."

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SERIOUSLY THINKING- Growing Traits in the Person Who Learns from- Joshua 11-12

Trait →Description →Scripture Reference

—Trust in God’s Promises →Relying on God’s faithfulness to fulfill what He has promised, despite overwhelming odds and challenges. →Joshua 11:6; 21:43–45

—Perseverance in Adversity →Continuing steadfastly through prolonged and difficult battles, not giving up until the task is complete. →Joshua 11:18–20

—Obedience to God’s Commands →Following God’s instructions precisely, even when they require difficult or unconventional actions. →Joshua 11:9, 15

—Courage in the Face of Opposition →Facing formidable enemies and circumstances with boldness, knowing God is with you. →Joshua 11:4–8

—Unity in Community Effort →Working together as a unified people, recognizing that God’s victories are achieved through collective faith and action. →Joshua 11:7, 12:1–24

—Commitment to God’s Covenant →Maintaining loyalty and devotion to God, remembering that victory and blessing are tied to faithfulness in relationship. →Joshua 11:15, 24:21

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TAKE-HOME THOUGHT

The bigger picture of God’s plan associated with Joshua 11-12 reveals His unwavering faithfulness and His desire for His people to trust in His guidance and power. The northern conquests and the listing of thirty-one conquered kings demonstrate God's commitment to fulfilling His promises to Israel. This teaches us that God’s promises are trustworthy, and His power is unmatched in bringing about victory and fulfillment of His plans.

Reflecting on these chapters, we see that God's guidance and power are crucial in overcoming challenges and achieving success. The Israelites' victories were a result of their trust in God's guidance and their unity in following His instructions. This encourages us to rely on God’s strength and seek His guidance in all aspects of our lives. "For no matter how many promises God has made, they are 'Yes' in Christ. And so through him the 'Amen' is spoken by us to the glory of God" (2 Corinthians 1:20).

By understanding and embracing these truths, we can find hope, direction, and purpose in our relationship with God. Our commitment to trusting His guidance, working together in unity, and being obedient to His Word not only strengthens our relationship with Him but also allows us to witness the fulfillment of His purposes in our lives. Embracing the lessons from Joshua 11-12 helps us navigate the complexities of life with confidence and assurance, knowing that God is always with us and His plans are perfect.

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Session 7: “Dividing the Land”- Joshua 13-14
Printable Download
- Joshua 13-14- The inheritance of the tribes, Caleb’s faith and reward

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OVERVIEW

In Session 7, we will explore Joshua 13-14, which detail the division of the Promised Land among the tribes of Israel. These chapters focus on the allocation of land east of the Jordan River and Caleb's request for Hebron. This study emphasizes God's faithfulness in fulfilling His promises and the importance of trusting Him in every season of life.

Key Verses:

Joshua 14:9: "So on that day Moses swore to me, ‘The land on which your feet have walked will be your inheritance and that of your children forever, because you have followed the Lord my God wholeheartedly.’"

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NEW TESTAMENT CONNECTION

God’s Faithfulness in Fulfillment:

Joshua 13:1: "When Joshua had grown old, the Lord said to him, 'You are now very old, and there are still very large areas of land to be taken over.'"

Tell the Story: Even as Joshua grew older, God reminded him of the unfinished task and continued to fulfill His promises to the Israelites.

New Testament Connection: Philippians 1:6: "Being confident of this, that he who began a good work in you will carry it on to completion until the day of Christ Jesus." Paul emphasizes God's faithfulness in completing His work in us.

Inheritance and Reward:

Joshua 14:9: "So on that day Moses swore to me, ‘The land on which your feet have walked will be your inheritance and that of your children forever, because you have followed the Lord my God wholeheartedly.’"

Tell the Story: Caleb reminds Joshua of the promise made to him by Moses and claims Hebron as his inheritance because of his faithfulness to God.

New Testament Connection: 2 Timothy 4:7-8: "I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, I have kept the faith. Now there is in store for me the crown of righteousness, which the Lord, the righteous Judge, will award to me on that day—and not only to me, but also to all who have longed for his appearing." Paul speaks of the reward for faithfulness.

Trust in God’s Provision:

Joshua 14:12: "Now give me this hill country that the Lord promised me that day. You yourself heard then that the Anakites were there and their cities were large and fortified, but, the Lord helping me, I will drive them out just as he said."

Tell the Story: Caleb, despite his advanced age, confidently asks for the hill country, trusting in God's help to drive out the inhabitants and claiming the land promised to him.

New Testament Connection: Hebrews 11:1: "Now faith is confidence in what we hope for and assurance about what we do not see." The writer of Hebrews emphasizes the importance of faith and trust in God’s promises.

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THOUGHT BY THOUGHT

Joshua 13 – Division of the Land East of the Jordan: As Joshua grows older, God instructs him to divide the remaining land among the tribes of Israel. Although there are still areas to be conquered, God's faithfulness in fulfilling His promises is evident. "When Joshua had grown old, the Lord said to him, 'You are now very old, and there are still very large areas of land to be taken over'" (Joshua 13:1). This passage highlights God's commitment to His promises and the importance of trusting Him in every season of life. Pastor Charles Stanley notes, "God's faithfulness is unwavering, and His promises are sure, regardless of our circumstances."

Joshua 14 – Caleb’s Inheritance: Caleb approaches Joshua to remind him of the promise made by Moses and requests the hill country of Hebron as his inheritance. Despite his age, Caleb's faith and trust in God's provision remain strong. "So on that day Moses swore to me, ‘The land on which your feet have walked will be your inheritance and that of your children forever, because you have followed the Lord my God wholeheartedly’" (Joshua 14:9). This story emphasizes the importance of faithfulness and trusting in God's provision. Theologian John Calvin remarked, "Caleb’s unwavering faith serves as an example of trusting in God’s promises and claiming His blessings with confidence."

By studying these chapters, we can gain a deeper understanding of the principles of faithfulness, inheritance, and trusting in God's provision. Reflecting on the division of the land and Caleb's inheritance helps us appreciate the significance of relying on God's promises and His faithfulness in our own lives.

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THINK ABOUT THIS

Have you ever waited a long time for something? Maybe you saved up for a special trip, waited for a grandchild to be born, or prayed for years about a loved one’s salvation. Waiting can be hard, but it’s even harder when we wonder if we’ll ever see the answer.

In Joshua 14, we meet Caleb, a man who had been waiting for 45 years to receive the land God had promised him. He was one of the 12 spies who had seen the Promised Land long ago, but because of the people’s fear and lack of faith, he had to wander in the wilderness with everyone else. Now, at 85 years old, Caleb could have said, “I’m too old for this.” Instead, he boldly claimed the promise, saying:

"Now give me this hill country that the Lord promised me that day." – Joshua 14:12

Caleb knew that God's promises don’t expire. Even though he was older, he still had strength, faith, and courage to take on what God had planned for him. His story reminds us that God isn’t done with us just because we’ve grown older. Whether we’re 25 or 85, He still has a purpose for us!

Reflection

Think about your own life. Has God ever fulfilled a promise in an unexpected way or after a long wait? What is something you are still believing Him for? Just like Caleb, we can trust that God’s promises are still good—no matter our age.

Quotes to Reflect On

“God’s promises are like the stars; the darker the night, the brighter they shine.” – David Nicholas

“Faith is taking the first step even when you don’t see the whole staircase.” – Martin Luther King Jr.

"The Lord will fulfill his purpose for me; your steadfast love, O Lord, endures forever." – Psalm 138:8

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LEAD-IN QUESTION: "What's the most meaningful inheritance or gift you've ever received from someone special in your life?"

- "A grandmother passes down her wedding ring not just as jewelry, but as a symbol of enduring love and family legacy. The ring carries stories, memories, and values that connect generations."

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DISCUSSION QUESTION:

"Why did God instruct Joshua to divide the land while he was 'very old and advanced in years' (Joshua 13:1)?" - This highlights God's timing and trust in Joshua's wisdom. Even in his advanced age, Joshua had an important role to play in establishing Israel's future.

"What strikes you about Caleb's faith when he says 'I am still as strong today as I was the day Moses sent me out' (Joshua 14:11)?" - Caleb's statement reflects both physical and spiritual strength, demonstrating how faith can sustain us through decades of waiting.

"How does the concept of inheritance in Joshua's time relate to our spiritual inheritance in Christ?" - Just as the Israelites received specific portions of the Promised Land, believers receive spiritual gifts and responsibilities in God's kingdom.

"What can we learn from the way the tribes had to participate in claiming their inheritance?" - This illustrates how faith often requires action on our part, even when God has made promises to us.

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APPLY THIS CONTENT

Christians today can apply the content from Joshua 13-14 by trusting in God's faithfulness and promises in their own lives. Just as God fulfilled His promises to Israel by allocating the land among the tribes, we too can trust that God will fulfill His promises to us. "Being confident of this, that he who began a good work in you will carry it on to completion until the day of Christ Jesus" (Philippians 1:6). Pastor Charles Stanley emphasizes, "God's faithfulness is unwavering, and His promises are sure, regardless of our circumstances."

Additionally, Caleb's story teaches us the importance of wholehearted devotion to God and confidently claiming His promises. Despite his advanced age, Caleb trusted in God's provision and was rewarded with the inheritance promised to him. This encourages us to remain faithful and trust in God's promises, no matter our age or circumstances. "So on that day Moses swore to me, ‘The land on which your feet have walked will be your inheritance and that of your children forever, because you have followed the Lord my God wholeheartedly’" (Joshua 14:9). Theologian John Calvin remarked, "Caleb’s unwavering faith serves as an example of trusting in God’s promises and claiming His blessings with confidence."

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SERIOUSLY THINKING- Growing Traits in the Person Who Learns from- Joshua 13-14

Trait →Description →Scripture Reference

—Faithfulness to God’s Promises →Trusting that God will fulfill His promises, even when tasks remain unfinished or challenges persist. →Joshua 13:1–7

—Stewardship and Responsibility →Taking personal and communal responsibility for the inheritance and tasks God assigns, ensuring each fulfills their role. →Joshua 13:6–7

—Unity Amid Diversity →Valuing the unique roles and inheritances of each tribe, while maintaining unity as one people of God. →Joshua 13:8–14

—Contentment and Gratitude →Accepting one’s allotted portion with gratitude, recognizing God’s wisdom in distribution, as seen in the Levites’ unique calling. →Joshua 13:14, 33

—Perseverance in Unfinished Work →Continuing the mission even when much remains to be done, not growing complacent or discouraged by incomplete victories. →Joshua 13:1–2

—Respect for God’s Order →Honoring the structure and boundaries God establishes, which brings order, justice, and peace to community life. →Joshua 13:7–14

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TAKE-HOME THOUGHT

The bigger picture of God’s plan associated with Joshua 13-14 reveals His unwavering faithfulness and His desire for His people to trust in His promises. The division of the land and Caleb's inheritance demonstrate God's commitment to fulfilling His promises to Israel. This teaches us that God’s promises are trustworthy, and His faithfulness is constant throughout all generations. "For no matter how many promises God has made, they are 'Yes' in Christ. And so through him the 'Amen' is spoken by us to the glory of God" (2 Corinthians 1:20).

Reflecting on these chapters, we see that God's faithfulness is not limited by our circumstances or age. Caleb's story, in particular, highlights the importance of faith, perseverance, and trusting in God's provision. As we navigate the challenges and uncertainties of life, we can take comfort in knowing that God is always faithful and that His promises will be fulfilled. Our commitment to trusting in His faithfulness and claiming His promises not only strengthens our relationship with Him but also allows us to witness the fulfillment of His purposes in our lives.

By understanding and embracing these truths, we can find hope, direction, and purpose in our relationship with God. Embracing the lessons from Joshua 13-14 helps us navigate the complexities of life with confidence and assurance, knowing that God is always with us and His plans are perfect.

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Session 8: “Possessing the Promise”- Joshua 15-17
Printable Download
- Joshua 15-17 - The specific allotments of land, Overcoming obstacles in claiming the inheritance

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OVERVIEW

In Session 8, we will explore Joshua 15-17, which detail the allocation of the Promised Land to the tribes of Judah, Ephraim, and the half-tribe of Manasseh. These chapters highlight the fulfillment of God's promises and the importance of possessing and maintaining the inheritance given by God. Through this study, we will gain insights into God's faithfulness, the significance of inheritance, and the need for perseverance in claiming God's promises.

Key Verse:

Joshua 15:13: "In accordance with the Lord’s command to him, Joshua gave to Caleb son of Jephunneh a portion in Judah—Kiriath Arba, that is, Hebron. (Arba was the forefather of Anak.)"

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NEW TESTAMENT CONNECTION

Faithfulness in Fulfilling Promises:

Joshua 15:13: "In accordance with the Lord’s command to him, Joshua gave to Caleb son of Jephunneh a portion in Judah—Kiriath Arba, that is, Hebron."

Tell the Story: Caleb receives Hebron as his inheritance, fulfilling the promise made to him for his faithfulness and courage.

New Testament Connection: 2 Corinthians 1:20: "For no matter how many promises God has made, they are 'Yes' in Christ. And so through him the 'Amen' is spoken by us to the glory of God." This emphasizes that God's promises are fulfilled through Christ.

Inheritance and Responsibility:

Joshua 16:10: "They did not dislodge the Canaanites living in Gezer; to this day the Canaanites live among the people of Ephraim but are required to do forced labor."

Tell the Story: The tribe of Ephraim does not fully drive out the Canaanites, leading to challenges in possessing their inheritance.

New Testament Connection: Hebrews 6:12: "We do not want you to become lazy, but to imitate those who through faith and patience inherit what has been promised." This encourages diligence in claiming God's promises.

Perseverance in Claiming the Land:

Joshua 17:18: "But the forested hill country as well. Clear it, and its farthest limits will be yours; though the Canaanites have chariots fitted with iron and though they are strong, you can drive them out."

Tell the Story: Joshua encourages the descendants of Joseph to clear the forested hill country and possess their full inheritance despite the challenges.

New Testament Connection: Philippians 3:14: "I press on toward the goal to win the prize for which God has called me heavenward in Christ Jesus." This highlights perseverance in pursuing God's promises.

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THOUGHT BY THOUGHT

Joshua 15 – The Allotment for Judah: God's faithfulness is evident in the detailed allotment of land to the tribe of Judah. Caleb, because of his faithfulness, receives Hebron as his inheritance. "In accordance with the Lord’s command to him, Joshua gave to Caleb son of Jephunneh a portion in Judah—Kiriath Arba, that is, Hebron" (Joshua 15:13). This passage emphasizes the importance of faithfulness and courage in receiving God's promises. Pastor Rick Warren notes, "God always rewards faithfulness, and His promises are sure."

Joshua 16 – The Allotment for Ephraim: The tribe of Ephraim receives their inheritance, but they do not fully drive out the Canaanites, leading to future challenges. "They did not dislodge the Canaanites living in Gezer; to this day the Canaanites live among the people of Ephraim but are required to do forced labor" (Joshua 16:10). This highlights the importance of fully claiming God's promises and dealing with obstacles that hinder our inheritance. Theologian John Calvin observed, "Partial obedience can lead to future difficulties and hinder the full realization of God's promises."

Joshua 17 – The Allotment for Manasseh: Joshua encourages the descendants of Joseph to clear the forested hill country and possess their full inheritance despite the challenges. "But the forested hill country as well. Clear it, and its farthest limits will be yours; though the Canaanites have chariots fitted with iron and though they are strong, you can drive them out" (Joshua 17:18). This passage emphasizes the importance of perseverance and determination in claiming God's promises. Pastor Charles Stanley remarks, "God’s promises often require our active participation and perseverance to fully realize them."

By studying these chapters, we can gain a deeper understanding of the principles of faithfulness, inheritance, and perseverance. Reflecting on the allotment of the land to Judah, Ephraim, and Manasseh helps us appreciate the significance of relying on God's promises and actively participating in their fulfillment

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THINK ABOUT THIS: "Possessing the Promise"

Imagine you’ve been given a wonderful gift—maybe a piece of land, a family keepsake, or even a special inheritance. The gift is yours, but there’s one catch: You have to go and claim it. It won’t just drop into your lap. You have to step out in faith, take action, and sometimes face challenges along the way.

This is exactly what happened to the Israelites in Joshua 15-17. God had already promised them the land, but they had to go in and take possession of it. Some areas were easier to claim, while others required courage and determination. Caleb, for example, didn’t shy away from claiming his portion (Joshua 15:13-19). The daughters of Zelophehad stepped forward in faith to ask for what was rightfully theirs (Joshua 17:3-6). But others hesitated, unsure or afraid to move forward (Joshua 17:14-18).

Isn’t that how life works sometimes? God gives us promises, blessings, and opportunities, but we have to step out in faith to receive them. Maybe it’s trusting Him in a difficult time, stepping into a new opportunity, or sharing His love with someone who needs encouragement.

A Thought to Reflect On:

Are there areas in your life where God is calling you to step forward in faith? What “promised land” might you be hesitant to claim?

Encouraging Quotes:

“Faith is taking the first step even when you don't see the whole staircase.” — Martin Luther King Jr.

“God’s promises are like the stars; the darker the night, the brighter they shine.” — David Nicholas

“The land was already theirs by promise, but it remained to be theirs in actual possession.” — Charles Spurgeon

Let’s remember: God’s promises are sure, but He often calls us to trust Him and take action. What step of faith might He be calling you to take today?

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LEAD-IN QUESTION: "When has waiting for something important tested your faith?"

- Share the story of Sarah waiting 25 years to have Isaac, or a modern example like waiting for medical test results or a loved one's recovery. This connects to the Israelites waiting to possess their promised inheritance.

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DISCUSSION QUESTION:

"What challenges did the tribes face when claiming their inheritance? (Joshua 15:14-15, 16:10)" - This helps participants recognize how the tribes dealt with existing inhabitants and geographical challenges, similar to obstacles we face in our spiritual journey.

"Why do you think Caleb's daughter Aksah asked for springs of water along with her land? (Joshua 15:18-19)" - Explores the practical wisdom of asking for resources needed to thrive, not just survive. Relates to asking God for specific needs.

"How does Caleb's confidence at age 85 (Joshua 14:10-12) inspire you?" - Demonstrates that age doesn't limit God's purpose for our lives, particularly relevant for your senior audience.

"What can we learn from the daughters of Zelophehad about approaching God with our requests? (Joshua 17:3-4)" - Shows how these women respectfully but boldly approached leadership with their inheritance request, modeling faithful advocacy.

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APPLY THIS CONTENT

Christians today can apply the content from Joshua 15-17 by embracing God's promises and trusting in His faithfulness. Just as God allocated the Promised Land to the tribes of Israel, we too can trust that God has a plan and purpose for each of us. "The land on which your feet have walked will be your inheritance and that of your children forever, because you have followed the Lord my God wholeheartedly" (Joshua 14:9). This verse reminds us to faithfully follow God and believe in His promises. Pastor Rick Warren emphasizes, "God's promises are not just for the future, but they are for our everyday lives as well."

Furthermore, the story of Caleb’s inheritance encourages us to remain confident and persistent in claiming God’s promises, regardless of our age or circumstances. Caleb's faith and determination serve as an example for us to trust in God's provision and boldly claim the blessings He has promised. "Now give me this hill country that the Lord promised me that day" (Joshua 14:12). Theologian John Calvin noted, "Caleb’s unwavering faith and determination to claim God's promises exemplify the trust and confidence we should have in God's provision."

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SERIOUSLY THINKING- Growing Traits in the Person Who Learns from- Joshua 15-17

Trait →Description →Scripture Reference

—Embracing God’s Provision →Accepting and stewarding the inheritance God assigns, recognizing His sovereignty and goodness in all distributions. →Joshua 15:1–12

—Perseverance in Overcoming Obstacles →Willingness to do hard work and face challenges (e.g., clearing forests, confronting strong enemies) to fully possess God’s promise. →Joshua 17:14–18

—Faith to Claim God’s Promises →Acting in faith to claim what God has promised, even when circumstances seem daunting or resources appear limited. →Joshua 17:14–18

—Advocacy for Justice and Inclusion →Valuing fairness and advocating for rightful inheritance, as seen in the daughters of Zelophehad’s pursuit of their portion. →Joshua 17:3–6

—Contentment and Gratitude →Receiving one’s allotted portion with gratitude, trusting God’s wisdom in His provision for each tribe and family. →Joshua 15:20; 16:4

—Obedience to God’s Commands →Following God’s instructions in detail, ensuring that His word is honored in the distribution and possession of the land. →Joshua 15:1–5; 17:3–6

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TAKE-HOME THOUGHT

The bigger picture of God’s plan associated with Joshua 15-17 reveals His unwavering faithfulness and His desire for His people to trust in His promises and provision. The allocation of the Promised Land and Caleb's inheritance demonstrate God's commitment to fulfilling His promises to Israel. This teaches us that God's promises are reliable and His faithfulness is unchanging across all generations. "For no matter how many promises God has made, they are 'Yes' in Christ. And so through him the 'Amen' is spoken by us to the glory of God" (2 Corinthians 1:20).

Reflecting on these chapters, we see that God's faithfulness is not limited by our circumstances or age. Caleb's story, in particular, highlights the importance of faith, perseverance, and trusting in God's provision. As we face challenges and uncertainties in our own lives, we can take comfort in knowing that God is always faithful and that His promises will be fulfilled. Our commitment to trusting in His faithfulness and claiming His promises not only strengthens our relationship with Him but also allows us to witness the fulfillment of His purposes in our lives.

By understanding and embracing these truths, we can find hope, direction, and purpose in our relationship with God. Embracing the lessons from Joshua 15-17 helps us navigate the complexities of life with confidence and assurance, knowing that God is always with us and His plans are perfect.

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Session 9: “The Cities of Refuge”- Joshua 18-20
Printable Download
- Joshua 18-20 - The importance of justice and mercy, The role of the cities of refuge

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OVERVIEW

In Session 9, we will explore Joshua 18-20, which recount the allocation of the remaining land among the tribes of Israel and the establishment of cities of refuge. These chapters highlight the themes of justice, mercy, and God's provision for His people. Through this study, we will gain insights into the importance of providing places of refuge and the significance of dividing the land according to God's instructions.

Key Verses:

Joshua 20:2-3: "Tell the Israelites to designate the cities of refuge, as I instructed you through Moses, so that anyone who kills a person accidentally and unintentionally may flee there and find protection from the avenger of blood."

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NEW TESTAMENT CONNECTION

Justice and Mercy:

Joshua 20:2-3: "Tell the Israelites to designate the cities of refuge, as I instructed you through Moses, so that anyone who kills a person accidentally and unintentionally may flee there and find protection from the avenger of blood."

Tell the Story: God instructs the Israelites to establish cities of refuge where those who accidentally cause a death can find protection and a fair trial, emphasizing mercy and justice.

New Testament Connection: Matthew 5:7: "Blessed are the merciful, for they will be shown mercy." Jesus teaches the importance of showing mercy, reflecting the principles of the cities of refuge.

God’s Provision and Guidance:

Joshua 18:1: "The whole assembly of the Israelites gathered at Shiloh and set up the tent of meeting there. The country was brought under their control."

Tell the Story: The Israelites gather at Shiloh to set up the tent of meeting and allocate the remaining land among the tribes, following God's guidance.

New Testament Connection: Philippians 4:19: "And my God will meet all your needs according to the riches of his glory in Christ Jesus." This emphasizes God's provision and care for His people.

Community Responsibility:

Joshua 20:4: "When they flee to one of these cities, they are to stand in the entrance of the city gate and state their case before the elders of that city. Then the elders are to admit the fugitive into their city and provide a place to live among them."

Tell the Story: The establishment of cities of refuge highlights the responsibility of the community to provide protection and justice for those in need.

New Testament Connection: Galatians 6:2: "Carry each other’s burdens, and in this way you will fulfill the law of Christ." This encourages us to support and care for one another within the community.

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THOUGHT BY THOUGHT

Joshua 18 – Allocation of Remaining Land: The Israelites gather at Shiloh to set up the tent of meeting and allocate the remaining land among the tribes. This passage emphasizes the importance of following God's guidance in distributing the land and ensuring that each tribe receives its inheritance. "The whole assembly of the Israelites gathered at Shiloh and set up the tent of meeting there. The country was brought under their control" (Joshua 18:1). Pastor Charles Stanley notes, "God's provision and guidance are evident in the allocation of the land, demonstrating His care for His people."

Joshua 20 – The Cities of Refuge: God commands Joshua to designate cities of refuge where individuals who have accidentally killed someone can flee for safety and receive a fair trial. "Then the Lord said to Joshua: 'Tell the Israelites to designate the cities of refuge, as I instructed you through Moses'" (Joshua 20:1-2). This passage highlights the principles of justice, mercy, and protection within the community. The cities of refuge were a means to ensure that those who committed unintentional manslaughter could find protection from revenge until a proper trial could be held. Pastor Charles Stanley emphasizes, "The cities of refuge remind us of God’s desire for justice and mercy, ensuring that everyone has the opportunity for a fair hearing and protection."

The cities of refuge also reflect the concept of sanctuary, where individuals can find safety and a second chance. This principle resonates with the New Testament teaching of Jesus as our ultimate refuge. "God is our refuge and strength, an ever-present help in trouble" (Psalm 46:1). Jesus provides spiritual refuge and forgiveness for all who seek Him, just as the cities of refuge provided physical safety. Theologian John Calvin noted, "The provision of cities of refuge shows God’s compassion and care for the vulnerable, ensuring that justice is tempered with mercy."

By studying Joshua 20, we can gain a deeper understanding of the principles of justice, mercy, and protection in the context of God's law. Reflecting on the establishment of the cities of refuge helps us appreciate the importance of providing safety, fairness, and second chances within our communities.

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THINK ABOUT THIS: Our Safe Place

Have you ever been in a situation where you just needed a safe place to go? Maybe as a child, you ran to a parent or grandparent when you were scared. Or maybe, as an adult, you’ve had moments when life felt overwhelming, and you just needed somewhere to rest, to be understood, and to feel secure.

The Cities of Refuge in Joshua 20 were places where people could go when they were in trouble. If someone accidentally hurt another person, they could flee to one of these cities and be safe until they received a fair trial. These cities were God’s way of providing protection and justice at the same time.

Doesn’t that sound like what God does for us? Psalm 46:1 says, “God is our refuge and strength, a very present help in trouble.” No matter what we face—fear, regret, uncertainty—God offers us a safe place in Him. He welcomes us with open arms, just like those cities of refuge welcomed people in need.

Take a moment and think: Where do you turn when you feel overwhelmed or afraid? How can you remind yourself that God is your safe place?

Quotes on Refuge & Safety in God

“The name of the Lord is a strong tower; the righteous run to it and are safe.” — Proverbs 18:10

“You are my hiding place; You shall preserve me from trouble; You shall surround me with songs of deliverance.” — Psalm 32:7

“Safety is not the absence of trouble, but the presence of God.” — Unknown

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LEAD-IN QUESTION: "Have you ever needed a safe place to go when you were in trouble or afraid?"

- "Think about how Dorothy in 'The Wizard of Oz' ran to her Aunt Em's house during the storm, or how we all seek shelter during severe weather. Sometimes we need physical safety, and other times we need emotional sanctuary. Today we'll learn about special cities God established as places of refuge and protection."

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DISCUSSION QUESTION:

"What were the Cities of Refuge used for, and why do you think God commanded their creation?" - This helps participants understand that these cities were established to protect those who had accidentally killed someone, providing a place where they could receive a fair trial and be safe from revenge. It shows God's concern for justice and mercy working together.

"The Cities of Refuge were spread out across the promised land so they would be accessible to everyone. What does this tell us about God's character?" - This question helps seniors reflect on God's thoughtfulness in ensuring that help was available to all people, not just those in certain regions. It demonstrates His desire that everyone should have access to justice and mercy.

"Before highways and cars, people had to travel on foot to reach these cities. How do you think someone would feel making that journey to find safety?" - This question helps participants empathize with those seeking refuge and can lead to discussions about modern parallels of seeking God's protection in times of trouble.

"The person seeking refuge had to stay in the city until the high priest died. How might this connect to what Jesus, our High Priest, did for us?" - This creates an opportunity to discuss how Jesus' death provides our ultimate refuge from the consequences of sin, making a beautiful connection between the Old and New Testaments.

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APPLY THIS CONTENT

Christians today can apply the content from Joshua 18-20 by recognizing the importance of providing justice, mercy, and refuge within our communities. Just as the cities of refuge were established to offer protection and a fair trial for those who accidentally caused harm, we too can create environments that promote compassion and fairness. "God is our refuge and strength, an ever-present help in trouble" (Psalm 46:1). Pastor Charles Stanley emphasizes, "The cities of refuge remind us of God’s desire for justice and mercy, ensuring that everyone has the opportunity for a fair hearing and protection."

Furthermore, the concept of refuge in the Old Testament can be seen as a precursor to the spiritual refuge we find in Jesus Christ. In times of trouble and distress, we can turn to Jesus, who offers forgiveness, grace, and protection. "Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest" (Matthew 11:28). Theologian John Calvin noted, "The provision of cities of refuge shows God’s compassion and care for the vulnerable, ensuring that justice is tempered with mercy."

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SERIOUSLY THINKING- Growing Traits in the Person Who Learns from- Joshua 18-20

Trait →Description →Scripture Reference

—Justice and Fairness →Ensuring that every person receives a fair hearing and protection from unjust punishment, especially in cases of unintentional harm. →Joshua 20:3–6

—Mercy Toward the Vulnerable →Providing refuge and safety for those in danger, reflecting God’s mercy toward the vulnerable and those in need of protection. →Joshua 20:3, 9

—Due Process and Accountability →Requiring a case to be presented and judged by elders, upholding the principle of due process and communal accountability. →Joshua 20:4, 6

—Inclusion and Accessibility →Making refuge available to all, including foreigners and resident aliens, demonstrating inclusivity and equal access to justice. →Joshua 20:9

—Respect for Life and Limits →Distinguishing between intentional and unintentional acts, teaching respect for life and the importance of motive in justice. →Joshua 20:3, 5

—Restoration and Release →Allowing for eventual restoration and return home after the high priest’s death, symbolizing hope for renewal and second chances. →Joshua 20:6

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TAKE-HOME THOUGHT

The bigger picture of God’s plan associated with Joshua 18-20 reveals His unwavering commitment to justice, mercy, and protection for His people. The establishment of the cities of refuge demonstrates God’s desire to provide a system of justice that is both fair and compassionate. This teaches us that God values every individual and seeks to protect the vulnerable while ensuring that justice is served.

Reflecting on these chapters, we see that God’s provision of refuge is not limited to physical safety but extends to spiritual and emotional well-being. Jesus Christ is our ultimate refuge, offering forgiveness, grace, and rest to all who come to Him. "Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest" (Matthew 11:28). This encourages us to turn to Jesus in times of trouble and to extend His love and compassion to others in our communities.

By understanding and embracing these truths, we can find hope, direction, and purpose in our relationship with God. Our commitment to promoting justice, mercy, and refuge within our communities not only reflects God’s character but also strengthens our relationships with Him and with others. Embracing the lessons from Joshua 18-20 helps us navigate the complexities of life with confidence and assurance, knowing that God is always with us and His plans are perfect.

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Session 10: “Finalizing the Inheritance”- Joshua 21-22
Printable Download
- Joshua 21-22 - The fulfillment of God’s promise, Unity and potential division among the tribes

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OVERVIEW

In Session 10, we will explore Joshua 21-22, which detail the allotment of cities to the Levites and the establishment of an altar by the eastern tribes. These chapters emphasize the importance of fulfilling God's promises, providing for spiritual leaders, and promoting unity among the tribes of Israel. Through this study, we will gain insights into God's faithfulness, the role of spiritual leadership, and the significance of unity in the community.

Key Verses:

Joshua 21:45: "Not one of all the Lord's good promises to Israel failed; every one was fulfilled."

Joshua 22:34: "And the Reubenites and the Gadites gave the altar this name: A Witness Between Us—that the Lord is God."

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NEW TESTAMENT CONNECTION

God’s Faithfulness in Fulfillment:

Joshua 21:45: "Not one of all the Lord's good promises to Israel failed; every one was fulfilled."

Tell the Story: The allotment of cities to the Levites and the completion of the distribution of the land demonstrate God's faithfulness in fulfilling His promises to Israel.

New Testament Connection: 2 Peter 3:9: "The Lord is not slow in keeping his promise, as some understand slowness. Instead he is patient with you, not wanting anyone to perish, but everyone to come to repentance." Peter assures us of God's faithfulness and patience in fulfilling His promises.

Provision for Spiritual Leadership:

Joshua 21:2: "They went to them at Shiloh in Canaan and said to them, 'The Lord commanded through Moses that you give us towns to live in, with pasturelands for our livestock.'"

Tell the Story: The Levites receive cities and pasturelands as their inheritance, emphasizing the importance of providing for spiritual leaders within the community.

New Testament Connection: 1 Timothy 5:17-18: "The elders who direct the affairs of the church well are worthy of double honor, especially those whose work is preaching and teaching. For Scripture says, 'Do not muzzle an ox while it is treading out the grain,' and 'The worker deserves his wages.'" Paul emphasizes the importance of honoring and providing for spiritual leaders.

Unity and Reconciliation:

Joshua 22:34: "And the Reubenites and the Gadites gave the altar this name: A Witness Between Us—that the Lord is God."

Tell the Story: The eastern tribes build an altar as a witness to their shared faith with the western tribes, promoting unity and reconciliation among the Israelites.

New Testament Connection: Ephesians 4:3: "Make every effort to keep the unity of the Spirit through the bond of peace." Paul encourages believers to strive for unity and peace within the community of faith.

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THOUGHT BY THOUGHT

Joshua 21 – Allotment of Cities to the Levites: God commands the allocation of cities and pasturelands to the Levites, fulfilling His promise to provide for the spiritual leaders of Israel. "Not one of all the Lord's good promises to Israel failed; every one was fulfilled" (Joshua 21:45). This passage highlights God's faithfulness and the importance of supporting those who serve in spiritual leadership. Pastor Charles Stanley notes, "God's provision for the Levites demonstrates His commitment to the spiritual well-being of His people and the importance of honoring those who lead in faith."

Joshua 22 – The Altar of Witness: The eastern tribes build an altar as a witness to their shared faith with the western tribes, initially causing misunderstanding but ultimately leading to reconciliation and unity. "And the Reubenites and the Gadites gave the altar this name: A Witness Between Us—that the Lord is God" (Joshua 22:34). This story emphasizes the importance of unity, communication, and reconciliation within the community of faith. Theologian John Calvin remarked, "The altar of witness serves as a powerful reminder of the need for unity and mutual understanding among God's people."

By studying these chapters, we can gain a deeper understanding of the principles of God's faithfulness, the role of spiritual leadership, and the significance of unity within the community. Reflecting on the allotment of cities to the Levites and the altar of witness helps us appreciate the importance of trusting in God's promises, supporting spiritual leaders, and fostering unity and reconciliation among believers.

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THINK ABOUT THIS: "Holding on to Promises"

Have you ever waited a long time for something? Maybe you saved for years to buy a house, or you worked hard at a job, hoping to retire comfortably. The longer we wait, the sweeter the reward, right?

In Joshua 21, God’s people finally received what He had promised them generations earlier. He had told Abraham that his descendants would have a land of their own (Genesis 12:7). After years of slavery in Egypt, 40 years in the wilderness, and many battles, the Israelites stood in the Promised Land. And here’s the key verse:

"Not one of all the Lord’s good promises to Israel failed; every one was fulfilled." — Joshua 21:45 (NIV)

God had been faithful to His word. The same is true for us. Life may not always go as planned, and we may have times of waiting, struggle, or doubt. But God’s promises still hold firm. He is always faithful.

Think about a time when God answered a prayer in your life, even if it took longer than expected. What did that teach you about trust? How can remembering God’s past faithfulness help you face the future with confidence?

"God never made a promise that was too good to be true." — D.L. Moody

No matter where we are in life, we can rest in knowing that God keeps His word. His faithfulness in the past is a reminder that He will continue to be faithful in the future.

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LEAD-IN QUESTION

"Have you ever been part of dividing up an inheritance, like after someone passes away? What was that experience like?"

- "I remember when my grandfather passed, we had to decide who got his tools, his books, his furniture. It wasn't always easy, but we tried to be fair."

Discussion Questions

"Why do you think it was important for the Israelites to receive their specific land portions?"

- "God had promised this land to their ancestors. Receiving it showed God's faithfulness and gave each tribe a place to call home. It also helped them stay separate from other nations and keep their identity as God's people."

"The Levites didn't get land like the other tribes. Why was that, and what did they receive instead?"

- "The Levites were the priests and had a special job serving God in the Tabernacle (and later the Temple). They were supported by the other tribes through tithes (offerings). Instead of land, they were given cities to live in scattered throughout the other tribes' territories, so they could be near and serve all the people."

"What do you think the Israelites learned about God through this process of dividing the land?"

- "They saw that God keeps His promises. He is fair and provides for His people. It also showed them that belonging to God's family means having responsibilities and working together (like the tribes supporting the Levites)."

"In Joshua 22, some tribes built an altar that looked like the one in the Tabernacle. Why did this cause a problem, and what can we learn from it?"

- "The other tribes misunderstood and thought these tribes were rebelling against God. It reminds us how important it is to communicate clearly and avoid misunderstandings. It's also a lesson about how we should be careful not to do things that might appear wrong, even if our intentions are good."

"How can the idea of an 'inheritance' apply to us as Christians today?"

- "Just like the Israelites, God has promised us an inheritance—eternal life with Him in heaven. We don't earn it, but receive it as a gift through Jesus. Like the Israelites, we also have responsibilities as God's people – to love Him and love others."

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APPLY THIS CONTENT

Christians today can apply the content from Joshua 21-22 by recognizing the importance of God's faithfulness and the necessity of unity within the community of believers. As the Israelites received their inheritance and established cities for the Levites, they witnessed the fulfillment of God's promises. This reminds us that God's promises are reliable and that He will always fulfill them in His perfect timing. "Not one of all the Lord's good promises to Israel failed; every one was fulfilled" (Joshua 21:45). Pastor Charles Stanley emphasizes, "God's faithfulness is unwavering, and His promises are sure, regardless of our circumstances."

Additionally, the building of the altar by the eastern tribes highlights the importance of unity and reconciliation among God's people. Despite initial misunderstandings, the tribes communicated and reaffirmed their shared faith, promoting peace and unity. This teaches us to prioritize open communication and reconciliation within our communities. "Make every effort to keep the unity of the Spirit through the bond of peace" (Ephesians 4:3). Theologian John Calvin noted, "The altar of witness serves as a powerful reminder of the need for unity and mutual understanding among God's people."

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SERIOUSLY THINKING- Growing Traits in the Person Who Learns from- Joshua 21-22

Trait →Description →Scripture Reference

—Trust in God’s Faithfulness →Recognizing that God keeps all His promises, as seen in the completion of land distribution and fulfillment of His word to Israel. →Joshua 21:43–45

—Valuing Spiritual Inheritance →Understanding that, like the Levites, our greatest inheritance is relationship and service to God, not material possessions. →Joshua 21:1–3

—Unity and Community Responsibility →Fostering unity by ensuring every tribe, including the Levites, received their portion and by supporting one another’s needs. →Joshua 21:1–8

—Obedience to God’s Commands →Faithfully carrying out God’s instructions in the allocation of land and cities, demonstrating commitment to His word. →Joshua 21:2–3, 22:1–4

—Provision for Spiritual Leadership →Supporting those called to spiritual service, as the Levites were provided for by the other tribes, ensuring ministry could flourish. →Joshua 21:8

—Commitment to Worship and Covenant →Prioritizing proper worship and covenant faithfulness, as emphasized in the unity and instructions regarding worship in the new land. →Joshua 22:5

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TAKE-HOME THOUGHT

The bigger picture of God’s plan associated with Joshua 21-22 reveals His unwavering commitment to fulfilling His promises and fostering unity among His people. The allotment of cities to the Levites and the building of the altar demonstrate God's faithfulness and His desire for His people to live in harmony. These chapters remind us that God values the spiritual well-being of His people and seeks to provide for and unite them.

Reflecting on these chapters, we see that God's faithfulness is evident in the fulfillment of His promises to the Israelites. This encourages us to trust in God's promises and remain confident that He will bring them to completion in our own lives. "The Lord is not slow in keeping his promise, as some understand slowness. Instead he is patient with you, not wanting anyone to perish, but everyone to come to repentance" (2 Peter 3:9).

Moreover, the emphasis on unity and reconciliation among the tribes teaches us the importance of fostering unity within our communities. By prioritizing open communication, understanding, and reconciliation, we can strengthen our relationships with one another and reflect God's love and peace. Our commitment to unity and trust in God's faithfulness not only enhances our spiritual well-being but also allows us to witness the fulfillment of His purposes in our lives.

By understanding and embracing these truths, we can find hope, direction, and purpose in our relationship with God. Embracing the lessons from Joshua 21-22 helps us navigate the complexities of life with confidence and assurance, knowing that God is always with us and His plans are perfect.

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Session 11: “Choose This Day”- Joshua 23
Printable Download
- Joshua 23 - Joshua’s farewell speech, A call to faithfulness

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OVERVIEW

In Session 11, we will explore Joshua 23, where Joshua gives his farewell address to the leaders of Israel. These final words emphasize the importance of faithfulness, obedience, and choosing to serve the Lord wholeheartedly. Through this study, we will gain insights into the significance of remaining faithful to God's covenant and the consequences of turning away from Him.

Key Verse:

Joshua 23:14: "Now I am about to go the way of all the earth. You know with all your heart and soul that not one of all the good promises the Lord your God gave you has failed. Every promise has been fulfilled; not one has failed."

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NEW TESTAMENT CONNECTION

Faithfulness to God's Covenant:

Joshua 23:6: "Be very strong; be careful to obey all that is written in the Book of the Law of Moses, without turning aside to the right or to the left."

Tell the Story: Joshua reminds the Israelites to remain faithful to God's covenant by obeying His commandments and not turning away from His teachings.

New Testament Connection: John 14:15: "If you love me, keep my commands." Jesus emphasizes the importance of obedience as an expression of love for God.

The Consequences of Turning Away:

Joshua 23:12-13: "But if you turn away and ally yourselves with the survivors of these nations that remain among you and if you intermarry with them and associate with them, then you may be sure that the Lord your God will no longer drive out these nations before you. Instead, they will become snares and traps for you, whips on your backs and thorns in your eyes, until you perish from this good land, which the Lord your God has given you."

Tell the Story: Joshua warns the Israelites of the consequences of turning away from God and forming alliances with the remaining nations.

New Testament Connection: 2 Peter 2:20-21: "If they have escaped the corruption of the world by knowing our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ and are again entangled in it and are overcome, they are worse off at the end than they were at the beginning. It would have been better for them not to have known the way of righteousness, than to have known it and then to turn their backs on the sacred command that was passed on to them." Peter warns of the dangers of falling back into sin after knowing Christ.

Choosing to Serve the Lord:

Joshua 23:8: "But you are to hold fast to the Lord your God, as you have until now."

Tell the Story: Joshua urges the Israelites to continue holding fast to the Lord and serving Him wholeheartedly.

New Testament Connection: Romans 12:1: "Therefore, I urge you, brothers and sisters, in view of God’s mercy, to offer your bodies as a living sacrifice, holy and pleasing to God—this is your true and proper worship." Paul encourages believers to dedicate their lives to serving God.

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THOUGHT BY THOUGHT

Joshua 23 – Faithfulness to God’s Covenant: Joshua's farewell address emphasizes the importance of remaining faithful to God's covenant. He urges the Israelites to obey God's commandments and avoid turning away from His teachings. "Be very strong; be careful to obey all that is written in the Book of the Law of Moses, without turning aside to the right or to the left" (Joshua 23:6). This passage highlights the significance of obedience and dedication to God's Word. Pastor Charles Stanley notes, "Obedience to God's commands is a demonstration of our love and commitment to Him."

Joshua 23 – The Consequences of Turning Away: Joshua warns the Israelites of the consequences of turning away from God and forming alliances with the remaining nations. He explains that disobedience will lead to suffering and loss of the blessings God has given them. "But if you turn away and ally yourselves with the survivors of these nations...they will become snares and traps for you" (Joshua 23:12-13). This story underscores the importance of staying true to God and the dangers of compromising our faith. Theologian John Calvin observed, "Turning away from God leads to spiritual downfall and the loss of His protection and blessings."

By studying Joshua 23, we can gain a deeper understanding of the principles of faithfulness, obedience, and the importance of choosing to serve the Lord wholeheartedly. Reflecting on Joshua's farewell address helps us appreciate the significance of remaining steadfast in our commitment to God and recognizing the consequences of turning away from Him.

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THINK ABOUT THIS: Choices That Shape Our Lives

Every day, we make choices—some small, like what to eat for breakfast, and some big, like how we treat others or where we put our trust. In Joshua 23, Joshua reminds the Israelites that they have a choice: to follow God or to turn away. He urges them to stay faithful because they have seen God’s goodness firsthand.

Think about a time in your life when you had to make a big decision. Maybe it was choosing a job, moving to a new place, or deciding how to handle a difficult situation. Looking back, how did that choice shape where you are today?

Joshua’s message is simple but powerful: Faithfulness is a choice we make every day. It’s not just about one big moment, but the little decisions we make—choosing to trust God even when life is uncertain, choosing to show kindness when it’s easier to walk away, choosing to pray instead of worry.

As you reflect on today’s passage, ask yourself:
What choices am I making today that bring me closer to God?
Are there areas in my life where I need to be more faithful?

Encouraging Quotes to Reflect On:

“Choose this day whom you will serve... But as for me and my house, we will serve the Lord.” — Joshua 24:15

“We are what we repeatedly do. Excellence, then, is not an act, but a habit.” — Aristotle

“One step of obedience is better than a hundred sermons.” — Dietrich Bonhoeffer

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LEAD-IN QUESTION

"Have you ever given someone important advice, maybe to your children or grandchildren? What was that advice about, and why did you think it was important?"

- "I told my grandson, 'Always be honest, even when it's hard.' Because I know honesty builds trust and character."

Discussion Questions

"Joshua is old now and about to retire (or die). What is the main message of his speech to the Israelites in this chapter?"

- "Joshua reminds them of all the great things God has done for them – how He fought for them and gave them the Promised Land. He's urging them to remember God's faithfulness and stay loyal to Him."

"Joshua warns the people not to associate with the remaining nations in the land. Why was this so important?"

- "The other nations worshipped different gods. Joshua knew that if the Israelites mixed with them, they might be tempted to turn away from the one true God. It was about protecting their relationship with God."

"Joshua says, 'Choose this day whom you will serve.' What does he mean by this? Wasn't it obvious they should serve God?"

- "Even though it should have been obvious, Joshua knew that following God is a daily choice. There are always temptations to do things our own way or follow other influences. He's calling them to make a conscious decision to serve God wholeheartedly."

"What are some of the blessings Joshua mentions that come from obeying God?"

- "He talks about continued blessings, like living safely in the land and God fighting for them against their enemies. It's about experiencing God's favor and protection."

"What are some of the consequences Joshua mentions for disobeying God?"

- "He warns that if they turn away from God, they will lose the blessings and even the land itself. It's a reminder that our choices have consequences."

"How does Joshua's challenge, 'Choose this day,' apply to us today?"

- "We also face choices every day about who we will follow – God or other things. It might not be worshipping other gods in the same way, but it could be things like putting our own desires first, or letting other things take priority over our relationship with God. We need to regularly choose to follow God."

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APPLY THIS CONTENT

Christians today can apply the content from Joshua 23-24 by making a deliberate and conscious choice to serve the Lord wholeheartedly. Just as Joshua challenged the Israelites to choose whom they would serve, we too can reflect on our own commitment to God and decide to dedicate our lives to Him. "But as for me and my household, we will serve the Lord" (Joshua 24:15). Pastor Rick Warren emphasizes, "Making a commitment to serve God is a daily decision that requires intentionality and dedication."

Furthermore, Joshua's reminder of God's faithfulness and the many ways He has provided for and protected the Israelites encourages us to remember and celebrate God's faithfulness in our own lives. By recalling God's past faithfulness, we can strengthen our trust in His continued guidance and provision. "Now fear the Lord and serve him with all faithfulness. Throw away the gods your ancestors worshiped beyond the Euphrates River and in Egypt, and serve the Lord" (Joshua 24:14). Theologian John Calvin noted, "Reflecting on God's past mercies strengthens our resolve to remain faithful and dedicated to His service."

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SERIOUSLY THINKING- Growing Traits in the Person Who Learns from- Joshua 23

Trait →Description →Scripture Reference

—Remembering God’s Faithfulness →Reflecting on all that God has done—His victories, provision, and fulfilled promises—as the foundation for ongoing trust and loyalty. →Joshua 23:3–5

—Commitment to Obedience →Being strong and steadfast to keep and do all that is written in God’s Word, not turning aside or compromising with other influences. →Joshua 23:6

—Separation from Idolatry →Avoiding entanglement with the values, practices, or “gods” of surrounding cultures; maintaining spiritual distinctiveness. →Joshua 23:7

—Clinging to God →Holding fast to the Lord in devotion and dependence, rather than relying on personal strength or alliances. →Joshua 23:8

—Realizing the Consequences of Choice →Understanding that serving God or turning away both have real consequences for life and legacy; the choice is personal and urgent. →Joshua 23:12–13

—Perseverance in Covenant Loyalty →Remaining faithful to God over time, especially as circumstances change and temptations arise, echoing Joshua’s charge to Israel. →Joshua 23:11, 16

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TAKE-HOME THOUGHT

The bigger picture of God’s plan associated with Joshua 23-24 reveals His unwavering faithfulness and His desire for His people to remain faithful and dedicated to Him. Joshua's call to the Israelites to choose whom they will serve emphasizes the importance of intentional commitment and the daily decision to follow God. This chapter reminds us that our relationship with God requires active participation and dedication.

Reflecting on Joshua's farewell address, we see that God's faithfulness is evident in the many ways He has provided for and protected His people. This encourages us to trust in God's continued faithfulness and to remain confident that He will guide us in our own lives. "The Lord is not slow in keeping his promise, as some understand slowness. Instead he is patient with you, not wanting anyone to perish, but everyone to come to repentance" (2 Peter 3:9).

Moreover, Joshua's challenge to the Israelites to choose whom they will serve highlights the importance of making a deliberate decision to follow God. This teaches us that our faith journey requires conscious choices and actions that align with God's will. By choosing to serve the Lord and obey His commandments, we strengthen our relationship with Him and witness the fulfillment of His purposes in our lives.

By understanding and embracing these truths, we can find hope, direction, and purpose in our relationship with God. Embracing the lessons from Joshua 23-24 helps us navigate the complexities of life with confidence and assurance, knowing that God is always with us and His plans are perfect.

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Session 12: “As for Me and My House”- Joshua 24
Printable Download
- Joshua 24 - The renewal of the covenant, Joshua’s famous declaration

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OVERVIEW

In Session 12, we will explore Joshua 24, which captures Joshua's final farewell to the Israelites and his strong call for them to renew their covenant with God. Joshua challenges the people to choose whom they will serve and reaffirms his own commitment to serving the Lord. This chapter emphasizes the importance of faithfulness, commitment, and the conscious choice to serve God.

Key Verse:

Joshua 24:15: "But if serving the Lord seems undesirable to you, then choose for yourselves this day whom you will serve, whether the gods your ancestors served beyond the Euphrates, or the gods of the Amorites, in whose land you are living. But as for me and my household, we will serve the Lord."

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NEW TESTAMENT CONNECTION

Commitment to Serve the Lord:

Joshua 24:15: "But if serving the Lord seems undesirable to you, then choose for yourselves this day whom you will serve, whether the gods your ancestors served beyond the Euphrates, or the gods of the Amorites, in whose land you are living. But as for me and my household, we will serve the Lord."

Tell the Story: Joshua challenges the Israelites to make a conscious choice about whom they will serve and declares his own commitment to serve the Lord.

New Testament Connection: Romans 12:1: "Therefore, I urge you, brothers and sisters, in view of God’s mercy, to offer your bodies as a living sacrifice, holy and pleasing to God—this is your true and proper worship." Paul encourages believers to dedicate their lives to serving God.

Faithfulness to God’s Covenant:

Joshua 24:14: "Now fear the Lord and serve him with all faithfulness. Throw away the gods your ancestors worshiped beyond the Euphrates River and in Egypt, and serve the Lord."

Tell the Story: Joshua reminds the Israelites to remain faithful to God's covenant and to reject any other gods.

New Testament Connection: John 14:15: "If you love me, keep my commands." Jesus emphasizes the importance of obedience as an expression of love for God.

Remembering God's Faithfulness:

Joshua 24:17: "It was the Lord our God himself who brought us and our parents up out of Egypt, from that land of slavery, and performed those great signs before our eyes. He protected us on our entire journey and among all the nations through which we traveled."

Tell the Story: Joshua recounts the numerous ways God has been faithful and has protected and provided for the Israelites.

New Testament Connection: Hebrews 13:8: "Jesus Christ is the same yesterday and today and forever." This verse highlights the consistency and faithfulness of God throughout generations.

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THOUGHT BY THOUGHT

Joshua 24 – Commitment to Serve the Lord: Joshua's final address to the Israelites emphasizes the importance of making a deliberate and conscious choice to serve the Lord. He challenges the people to choose whom they will serve and declares his own family's commitment to serve God. "But as for me and my household, we will serve the Lord" (Joshua 24:15). This passage highlights the significance of personal and family commitment to God. Pastor Rick Warren emphasizes, "Making a commitment to serve God is a daily decision that requires intentionality and dedication."

Joshua 24 – Faithfulness to God’s Covenant: Joshua reminds the Israelites to remain faithful to God's covenant and to reject any other gods. He urges them to serve the Lord with all faithfulness and to remember God's past faithfulness in leading them out of Egypt and protecting them throughout their journey. "Now fear the Lord and serve him with all faithfulness. Throw away the gods your ancestors worshiped beyond the Euphrates River and in Egypt, and serve the Lord" (Joshua 24:14). This story emphasizes the importance of faithfulness and rejecting anything that may hinder our relationship with God. Theologian John Calvin noted, "Reflecting on God's past mercies strengthens our resolve to remain faithful and dedicated to His service."

By studying Joshua 24, we can gain a deeper understanding of the principles of commitment, faithfulness, and the importance of making a conscious choice to serve God. Reflecting on Joshua's final address helps us appreciate the significance of personal dedication to God and recognizing His faithfulness in our lives.

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APPLY THIS CONTENT

Christians today can apply the content from Joshua 23 by remaining faithful to God's teachings and making a deliberate choice to serve Him wholeheartedly. Just as Joshua urged the Israelites to obey God's commandments and avoid turning away from His teachings, we too can strive to live our lives according to God's Word. "Be very strong; be careful to obey all that is written in the Book of the Law of Moses, without turning aside to the right or to the left" (Joshua 23:6). Pastor Charles Stanley emphasizes, "Obedience to God's commands is a demonstration of our love and commitment to Him."

Moreover, Joshua's reminder of God's faithfulness and the fulfillment of His promises encourages us to trust in God's promises in our own lives. "Now I am about to go the way of all the earth. You know with all your heart and soul that not one of all the good promises the Lord your God gave you has failed. Every promise has been fulfilled; not one has failed" (Joshua 23:14). This reassures us that God's faithfulness is unwavering and that we can rely on His promises. Theologian John Calvin noted, "God's faithfulness remains constant, even when we face challenges and uncertainties."

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SERIOUSLY THINKING- Growing Traits in the Person Who Learns from- Joshua 23

Trait →Description →Scripture Reference

—Remembering God’s Faithfulness →Reflecting on all that God has done—His victories, provision, and fulfilled promises—as the foundation for ongoing trust and loyalty. →Joshua 23:3–5

—Commitment to Obedience →Being strong and steadfast to keep and do all that is written in God’s Word, not turning aside or compromising with other influences. →Joshua 23:6

—Separation from Idolatry →Avoiding entanglement with the values, practices, or “gods” of surrounding cultures; maintaining spiritual distinctiveness. →Joshua 23:7

—Clinging to God →Holding fast to the Lord in devotion and dependence, rather than relying on personal strength or alliances. →Joshua 23:8

—Realizing the Consequences of Choice →Understanding that serving God or turning away both have real consequences for life and legacy; the choice is personal and urgent. →Joshua 23:12–13

—Perseverance in Covenant Loyalty →Remaining faithful to God over time, especially as circumstances change and temptations arise, echoing Joshua’s charge to Israel. →Joshua 23:11, 16

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TAKE-HOME THOUGHT

The bigger picture of God’s plan associated with Joshua 23 reveals His unwavering faithfulness and His desire for His people to remain faithful to Him. Joshua's farewell address emphasizes the importance of obedience, faithfulness, and choosing to serve the Lord wholeheartedly. These chapters remind us that our relationship with God requires intentional commitment and dedication.

Reflecting on Joshua's words, we see that God's faithfulness is evident in the fulfillment of His promises to the Israelites. This encourages us to trust in God's promises and remain confident that He will bring them to completion in our own lives. "The Lord is not slow in keeping his promise, as some understand slowness. Instead he is patient with you, not wanting anyone to perish, but everyone to come to repentance" (2 Peter 3:9).

Moreover, Joshua's call to choose to serve the Lord highlights the importance of making a deliberate decision to follow God. This teaches us that our faith journey requires conscious choices and actions that align with God's will. By choosing to serve the Lord and obey His commandments, we strengthen our relationship with Him and witness the fulfillment of His purposes in our lives.

By understanding and embracing these truths, we can find hope, direction, and purpose in our relationship with God. Embracing the lessons from Joshua 23 helps us navigate the complexities of life with confidence and assurance, knowing that God is always with us and His plans are perfect.

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THINK ABOUT THIS: A Family Decision

Have you ever walked into someone’s home and immediately felt warmth and love? Maybe it was a grandparent’s house, a close friend’s home, or even your own. There’s something special about a home where God is honored—it’s not about the size of the house or the things inside, but the spirit of the people who live there.

In Joshua 24, Joshua stands before the Israelites and makes a bold statement:
“As for me and my house, we will serve the Lord.” (Joshua 24:15)

Joshua knew that faith wasn’t just a personal decision—it was something that shaped his whole household. Today, our homes are shaped by what we choose to focus on. Do we fill them with kindness, prayer, and encouragement? Or do we let fear, worry, or negativity take over?

Think back to your childhood home. What was the atmosphere like? What choices did your family make that shaped the way you see faith today?

The good news is that no matter our past, we can choose today to make our homes places where God is honored. That choice starts in the small moments—praying before a meal, offering a kind word, or simply thanking God for the blessings in front of us.

Ask yourself:
What does it mean for my home to serve the Lord?
What small choices can I make today to create a home filled with God’s presence?

Encouraging Quotes to Reflect On:

“Unless the Lord builds the house, the builders labor in vain.” — Psalm 127:1

“Your home should be a reflection of your heart—full of love, kindness, and faith.” — Unknown

“Serving God starts at home, in the little things we do every day.” — Corrie ten Boom

Would you like any additional discussion questions or tweaks for your group?

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LEAD-IN QUESTION

"Have you ever made a big, important decision that affected your whole family? What was that decision, and why was it so significant?"

- "When we decided to move closer to our children, it was a big change for everyone. But we felt it was the right thing to do for our family."

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DISCUSSION QUESTION

"Joshua gathers all the tribes together one last time. What is the purpose of this meeting?"

- "Joshua wants to renew the covenant (agreement) between the people and God. He reminds them of God's faithfulness throughout their history and urges them to commit to serving Him alone."

"Joshua retells the history of Israel, starting with Abraham. Why does he go so far back?"

- "He wants them to see that God's relationship with them is not something new. It's a long story of God's love and faithfulness, going back generations. It reminds them of the foundation of their faith."

"Joshua says, 'Choose for yourselves this day whom you will serve...' He then declares, 'But as for me and my household, we will serve the Lord.' Why do you think it was important for Joshua to make this personal declaration?"

- "Joshua is a leader, and his example matters. By publicly declaring his commitment, he's showing the people that this isn't just a general idea, but a personal conviction. He’s saying, 'This is what I believe, and this is what my family will do.'"

"What are some of the gods the people were tempted to worship instead of the Lord?"

- "The gods of the nations around them – idols made of wood and stone. These represented false promises and empty ways of life, in contrast to the true and living God."

"The people respond that they will serve the Lord. Joshua says they can't. What does he mean by this, and what does he tell them they need to do?"

- "Joshua isn't saying they can't choose God. He's saying it's not just a matter of saying the words. True commitment requires a change of heart – putting away other gods, obeying God's commands, and truly dedicating themselves to Him. It's about their ability to consistently follow God, which requires a deep inner change."

"How does Joshua's statement, 'as for me and my house, we will serve the Lord,' apply to us today?"

- "We can make the same declaration in our own lives. It's about setting a spiritual tone in our families, raising our children to love God, and making sure our homes are places where God is honored. It's about our personal commitment influencing our families and loved ones."

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APPLY THIS CONTENT

Christians today can apply the content from Joshua 24 by making a conscious decision to serve the Lord wholeheartedly and reaffirming their commitment to follow God's ways. Just as Joshua challenged the Israelites to choose whom they would serve, we too can reflect on our own commitment to God and decide to dedicate our lives to Him. "But as for me and my household, we will serve the Lord" (Joshua 24:15). Pastor Rick Warren emphasizes, "Making a commitment to serve God is a daily decision that requires intentionality and dedication."

Furthermore, Joshua's reminder of God's faithfulness and the many ways He has provided for and protected the Israelites encourages us to remember and celebrate God's faithfulness in our own lives. By recalling God's past faithfulness, we can strengthen our trust in His continued guidance and provision. "Now fear the Lord and serve him with all faithfulness. Throw away the gods your ancestors worshiped beyond the Euphrates River and in Egypt, and serve the Lord" (Joshua 24:14). Theologian John Calvin noted, "Reflecting on God's past mercies strengthens our resolve to remain faithful and dedicated to His service."

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TAKE-HOME THOUGHT

The bigger picture of God’s plan associated with Joshua 24 reveals His unwavering desire for His people to remain faithful and dedicated to Him. Joshua's call to the Israelites to choose whom they will serve emphasizes the importance of intentional commitment and the daily decision to follow God. This chapter reminds us that our relationship with God requires active participation and dedication.

Reflecting on Joshua's farewell address, we see that God's faithfulness is evident in the many ways He has provided for and protected His people. This encourages us to trust in God's continued faithfulness and to remain confident that He will guide us in our own lives. "The Lord is not slow in keeping his promise, as some understand slowness. Instead he is patient with you, not wanting anyone to perish, but everyone to come to repentance" (2 Peter 3:9).

Moreover, Joshua's challenge to the Israelites to choose whom they will serve highlights the importance of making a deliberate decision to follow God. This teaches us that our faith journey requires conscious choices and actions that align with God's will. By choosing to serve the Lord and obey His commandments, we strengthen our relationship with Him and witness the fulfillment of His purposes in our lives.

By understanding and embracing these truths, we can find hope, direction, and purpose in our relationship with God. Embracing the lessons from Joshua 24 helps us navigate the complexities of life with confidence and assurance, knowing that God is always with us and His plans are perfect.

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The book of Joshua narrates the Israelites' tumultuous transition from nomadic wanderers to settled inhabitants of the Promised Land, marked by both divine promises and divinely sanctioned violence. It details their conquest of Canaan, the division of the land among the tribes, and Joshua's final exhortations to remain faithful to God's covenant. As Matthew Henry observed, "Joshua's character...was a resemblance of Christ," foreshadowing the greater leader who would bring his people into true rest.

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1: “Be Strong and Courageous”- Joshua 1-2

2: “Crossing Over”- Joshua 3-4

3: “The Commander of the Lord’s Army”- Joshua 5-6

4: “Failure and Renewal”- Joshua 7-8

5: “Trickery and Promises”- Joshua 9-10

6: “Conquering the Land”- Joshua 11-12

7: “Dividing the Land”- Joshua 13-14

8: “Possessing the Promise”- Joshua 15-17

9: “The Cities of Refuge”- Joshua 18-20

10: “Finalizing the Inheritance”- Joshua 21-22

11: “Choose This Day”- Joshua 23

12: “As for Me and My House”- Joshua 24

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The Book of Joshua: Trusting God's Promises

The book of Joshua is a story of faith, leadership, and God’s unwavering promises. It picks up where Moses leaves off, with Joshua leading the Israelites into the Promised Land. After years of wandering in the wilderness, they finally step into what God had promised their ancestors. But the journey wasn’t easy—there were battles to fight, land to divide, and choices to make. Would they trust God and follow His ways, or would they turn to their own understanding?

At its core, Joshua is a book about God’s faithfulness. One of its most powerful verses reminds us: "Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged, for the Lord your God will be with you wherever you go." — Joshua 1:9 (NIV)

This message still speaks to us today. Life is full of challenges—health struggles, loss, uncertainty about the future. But just as God was with Joshua and the Israelites, He is with us. No matter what battles we face, we can trust that He goes before us, guiding and providing.

Joshua also teaches the importance of obedience and unity. The Israelites were only successful when they followed God’s commands together. When they obeyed, they saw victory (like at Jericho), but when they disobeyed, they faced hardship (like at Ai). In today’s world, we see the effects of division and straying from God’s truth. But Joshua reminds us that when we trust and follow Him, He leads us into His promises.

As pastor and author Warren Wiersbe once said: "The book of Joshua reminds us that faith and obedience go hand in hand. We can’t expect victory if we’re not willing to follow God’s instructions."

So what does this mean for us? It means that just as God had a plan for Israel, He has a plan for us. He is still faithful, still keeping His promises, and still calling us to trust Him in every season of life. Whether we are facing new beginnings or nearing the finish line, we can be strong and courageous, knowing that God is with us—just as He was with Joshua.

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How to Use This Plan

Each session can include reading, discussion, and personal application.

Key themes can be faith, obedience, leadership, and God's faithfulness.

Encourage sharing personal reflections on how Joshua’s story applies today.