“And the second day they compassed the city once, and returned into the camp: so they did six days.”
Joshua 6:14 is part of the account of the Israelites’ conquest of the city of Jericho, which was one of the first major military campaigns they undertook upon entering the Promised Land. This verse describes the events that took place on the second day of their strategy to conquer Jericho.
To understand the context, it’s important to look at the preceding verses. In Joshua 6:1-5, God gave specific instructions to Joshua regarding the conquest of Jericho. God instructed Joshua:to march around the city once with all the armed men for six days. On the seventh day, they were to march around the city seven times, and after the seventh round, the priests were to blow their trumpets, and the people were to shout. God assured Joshua that the walls of Jericho would collapse, allowing the Israelites to take the city.
In Joshua 6:14, we learn that on the second day, the Israelites obeyed God’s command:by marching around the city once and then returning to their camp. This ritual was repeated for six consecutive days, indicating the obedience and discipline of the Israelites in following God’s instructions.
This passage highlights several significant aspects:
- Obedience to God’s instructions:The Israelites demonstrated their trust in God’s commands:by faithfully carrying out the prescribed actions, even though the strategy might have seemed unconventional or illogical.
- Persistence and patience:The Israelites marched around the city day after day, patiently waiting for God’s timing:and promise to come to fruition. This demonstrates the importance of perseverance in following God’s plans, even when the results are not immediately apparent.
- Dependence on God’s power:The Israelites did not rely solely on their own military strength or strategies to conquer Jericho. They trusted in God’s power:and intervention to bring about the victory they sought. By following His instructions, they acknowledged their dependence on Him.
- Faith:Although not explicitly mentioned in this particular verse, faith is a fundamental element underlying the Israelites’ actions. They believed in God’s promise:and trusted that His word would come to pass.
Joshua 6:14 serves as a reminder of the faith, obedience, and patience required to follow God’s guidance:It encourages us to trust in His plans, even when they may seem unconventional or challenging. Furthermore, it emphasizes the importance of perseverance and steadfastness in pursuing God’s promises:knowing that He is faithful to fulfill what He has spoken.
