The books of Joshua through Esther tell the story of how the Israelites entered the Promised Land, faced challenges, and were led by judges, kings, and leaders. They show how the people struggled with faithfulness to God, experienced both victories and hardships, but also saw God’s help and protection through it all.
Be Strong and Courageous
In Joshua 1:1-18, after Moses’ death, God tells Joshua to lead the Israelites into the Promised Land. God promises to be with him just as He was with Moses, urging Joshua to be strong and courageous. He reminds Joshua to obey His laws and keep them in his heart. Joshua then prepares the people, instructing them to get ready to cross the Jordan River. The Israelites pledge their loyalty to Joshua, promising to follow him as they followed Moses, and they encourage him to be strong and brave.
Rahab Helps the Spies
In Joshua 2:1-24, Joshua sends two spies to explore the city of Jericho. They stay at the house of Rahab, a woman who decides to help them because she has heard about God’s power. When the king’s men come looking for the spies, Rahab hides them and later helps them escape by lowering them down the city wall with a rope. In return, the spies promise to protect Rahab and her family when the Israelites take the city. They return to Joshua, telling him that the people of Jericho are afraid because they know God is with Israel.
Crossing the Jordan River
In Joshua 3:1-17, Joshua leads the Israelites to the Jordan River, which they must cross to enter the Promised Land. God tells Joshua that when the priests carrying the Ark of the Covenant step into the river, the water will stop flowing. As soon as the priests touch the water, the river miraculously stops, creating dry ground for the people to walk across. The Israelites safely cross while the priests stand in the middle, holding the Ark. This amazing event shows that God is with Joshua, just as He was with Moses.
The Fall of Jericho
In Joshua 5:13-6:27, Joshua meets a mysterious warrior who tells him that he is the commander of God’s army. God then gives Joshua unusual instructions to conquer Jericho: the Israelites must march around the city once a day for six days, and on the seventh day, they must march around it seven times. After the final lap, the priests blow their trumpets, and the people shout loudly. Miraculously, the walls of Jericho collapse, and the Israelites take the city. They spare Rahab and her family, as promised, because she helped the spies. This victory shows God’s power and faithfulness to His people.
Achan’s Sin and Its Consequences
In Joshua 7:1-26, the Israelites suffer a surprising defeat at Ai because one man, Achan, disobeys God by secretly keeping treasures from Jericho that were meant to be destroyed. Joshua is confused about the loss, but God reveals that Israel cannot win until the sin is removed. After searching, Achan is found guilty, and he admits what he did. As a result, he and his family are punished, and the stolen items are destroyed. After this, God’s favor returns to Israel, teaching them the importance of obedience and honesty.
The Day the Sun Stood Still
In Joshua 10:1-15, five kings join forces to attack the city of Gibeon because it made a peace treaty with Israel. The Gibeonites ask Joshua for help, and God assures him that Israel will win. As Joshua and his army fight, God sends a powerful hailstorm that defeats many of the enemy soldiers. Then, Joshua prays for the sun to stand still so they can finish the battle, and God makes the sun stop moving until Israel is victorious. This incredible event shows God’s power and His willingness to help His people in their time of need.
Joshua’s Final Encouragement
In Joshua 23:1-16, Joshua, now old, gathers the Israelites to remind them of everything God has done for them. He encourages them to stay faithful, obey God’s laws, and not follow the ways of other nations. Joshua warns that if they turn away from God, they will lose His blessings and face trouble. He reminds them that God always keeps His promises—both His blessings and His warnings. Joshua’s message is clear: staying close to God is the key to their success and future.
Choose to Serve the Lord
In Joshua 24:1-31, Joshua gathers the Israelites and reminds them of everything God has done, from rescuing them from Egypt to giving them the Promised Land. He challenges them to decide whom they will serve—God or the false gods of other nations. Joshua boldly declares, “As for me and my house, we will serve the Lord.” The people promise to remain faithful to God, and Joshua makes a covenant with them to confirm their commitment. After Joshua’s death, the Israelites continue to follow God for a time, remembering his leadership and God’s faithfulness.
Deborah and Jael’s Victory
In Judges 4:4-24, Deborah, a wise and courageous judge, leads Israel during a time of oppression. She tells Barak, a military leader, that God wants him to fight against Sisera, the commander of the enemy army. Barak agrees but insists Deborah go with him. With God’s help, Israel defeats Sisera’s army, and Sisera flees on foot. He takes shelter in the tent of Jael, a woman who later kills him while he sleeps, bringing an end to Israel’s enemy. Through Deborah’s leadership and Jael’s bravery, God gives Israel a great victory.
God Calls Gideon
In Judges 6:1-40, the Israelites are suffering because they have turned away from God, and the Midianites keep attacking them. God chooses Gideon, a humble man, to rescue Israel. At first, Gideon doubts himself, but an angel assures him that God will be with him. Gideon destroys an altar to a false god, showing his trust in the Lord. Later, he asks God for signs using a fleece to make sure he is truly chosen. God patiently answers his requests, proving that He is with Gideon and will help him lead Israel to victory.