Joshua 6 -- Warfare In The Bible

I admit that years ago I did what it mentions in my commentary -- wondered how a merciful God could have destroyed the people like He did at Jericho.  My commentary helps to set our thinking straight.

"You are but a poor soldier of Christ if you think you can overcome without fighting, and suppose you can have the crown without the conflict ... Our enemies are constantly waging war against us and trying to keep us from claiming our inheritance in Jesus Christ.  The World, the flesh, and the devil are united against Christ and His people ... We've forgotten that the main theme of the Bible is God's holy warfare against Satan and sin ... If you eliminate the militant side of the Christian faith, then you must abandon the cross, for it was on the cross that Jesus won the victory over Satan and sin ... Too many Christians cultivate only a sentimental emphasis on peace and goodwill and ignore the spiritual battle against sin, and this means they've already lost the victory, and are working for the enemy ... The Christian's warfare is not against flesh and blood, but against enemies in the spiritual realm, and the weapons we us are spiritual.  Satan and his demonic armies use people to oppose and attack the church of God, and if we don't take our stand with Christ, we've already lost the battle.  In the army of Jesus Christ there can be no neutrality.  'He that is not with me is against Me,' Jesus said.  And He spoke those words in the context of spiritual warfare."

Three principles of spiritual conflict and victory applicable to our lives:

Before the challenge:  Remember that you fight from victory, not just for victory.

During the challenge:  Remember that you overcome the enemy by faith.

After the victory:  Remember to obey God's commands and give Him the glory.

"We should also keep in mind that these historical events were written for our learning ... In the destruction of Jericho and its population God is telling us that He will tolerate no compromise with sin in the lives of His people ... Thank God He will not make peace with sin in my heart!"

Father God, show me how to do this in my life situations right now.  I want to be fighting with You and not against You by default.  I understand that there is no neutrality.

Your Brother In Christ,
Gary Ford