No survivors! Not even the 5 powerful Amorite kings could stand against the power of God when He fought for Israel.
In the previous lesson from chapter ten, we saw “the day the sun stood still“, where God allowed Joshua to win the battle.
The Bible study lesson today comes from Joshua 10:16-43.
And, it tells what happens after Joshua defeats the southern cities of the Amorites.
Let’s take a look at the verses first. Then, we’ll learn how we can use the lessons in our lives.
Five Amorite Kings and Joshua – The Southern Cities Defeated
“When they brought these kings out to Joshua, Joshua called for all the men of Israel, and said to the chiefs of the men of war who had gone with him, “Come near, put your feet on the necks of these kings.”
So they came near and put their feet on their necks.
Joshua then said to them, “Do not fear or be dismayed! Be strong and courageous, for thus the Lord will do to all your enemies with whom you fight.” – Joshua 10:24-25
Who Are The Amorites?
The Amorites are mentioned several times in the Bible. Genesis 10 for one.
And, again in Amos 2:9, the Amorites are described as giants. This Book says: “his height was like the height of cedars.” So, this was a strong tribe.
Also, the general term is Canaanite, since they did reside in the land of Canaan.
This background tells us that Joshua was up against a formidable force. But, not for God.
Foot on the Neck?
This was common practice during the time of Joshua. And, it became a public sign of the enemy’s submission and defeat.
The Amorites were very powerful kings who had been overthrown – and beaten by God’s power. Joshua defeated these kings in battle and gave all the credit to God.
He was quick to let everyone know who the true commander was.
Do We Give All Credit to God?
Joshua had no reservations about giving God all the credit. In his eyes, God defeated the Amorite kings. No question!
But, do we give God credit when amazing things happen in our lives?
I can only speak for myself. And, my answer is a resounding Yes!
Truth is, many times we are tempted to claim all the credit for every successful venture we complete.
But, we need to remember that anything we accomplish comes from God. So, we should thank Him for allowing us a victory, just as Joshua did.
No Amorite Survivors – Why?
Why was Joshua and his army so harsh in battle? Was it because he was a war monger? Or, did he just lack self-discipline?
The answer is none of the above.
Joshua left no survivors because that’s what God commanded. Repeat, that’s what God commanded him to do.
Just as Abraham was willing to sacrifice his son Isaac in Genesis 22, Joshua acted on God’s will without question.
We will most likely never be asked to go to the extremes of these Biblical characters. But, God does request us to do certain tasks for Him.
Your task will be different from mine. But, we all have them. God talks to us. So, when we pray, do we listen to what God is saying to us?
Yes, my weak point is; Sometimes I’m so busy talking I don’t take time to listen. But, He still looks after me. He knows what’s best for me (and you) – even if I don’t always ask.
Not on Our Own
God fought for Israel – as long as the people obeyed him. He was willing to give them victory because Israel was his people.
The Amorite kings were sworn enemies of God’s people. This made them sworn enemies of God.
What Do These Amorite Verses Have To Do With Us?
God also fights our battles for us. Many of these battles we are not even aware of. But, this study from Joshua encourages us to have faith and hope – even when things seem hopeless.
All we have to do is trust God – and obey.
Will the outcome always be the one we expected? No, but God is with us no matter what.
We can count on Him to stand beside us in every situation. Even if we don’t get the outcome we want, God will comfort us.
Yes, God Defeated the 5 Kings of the Amorites…
Because He loved Israel, God worked and led them to victory.
Joshua was the leader of the Israelites. But, God was the leader of Joshua.
The good news is, Christ loves us too!
Even though we don’t always follow His plan for us (neither did Israel), He still keeps His promises.
God is always faithful.
He works in our lives on a daily basis – without resting.
Can’t we have just a little faith and work for Him as well?
Love in Christ
– Bob
If you have never made the decision to receive the love and life-changing experience of Jesus Christ, please take a moment to read John 3:16 now.