Joshua 10:20

And it came to pass, when Joshua and the children of Israel had made an end of slaying them with a very great slaughter, till they were consumed, that the rest which remained of them entered into fenced cities.

Joshua 10:20 (KJV)

Context

In Joshua 10, Israel fights the Amorite kings who attacked Gibeon after making a treaty with Joshua. God fights for Israel, sending hail and making the sun stand still (Joshua 10:14). By verse 20, the main battle is over. Joshua and the people have killed most of the enemy, and only a few survivors remain. These survivors run into fortified cities for safety. This victory is part of God’s larger plan to give Israel the land He promised.

Meaning

The verse says the slaughter was “very great” and continued “till they were consumed.” This shows the completeness of the victory. God gave Israel success, and they finished the work. The survivors entering fenced cities are not a sign of failure. They show that the conquest is not yet complete. The cities will need to be taken later, as part of God’s plan to give Israel the land. God’s faithfulness is seen in this victory, and His purposes will be accomplished.

Biblical connections

God’s promise to fight for Israel is repeated throughout Joshua (Joshua 10:42). This verse is a direct result of that promise. The escape of some enemies reminds us that God’s people must continue to trust and obey even after a great victory. The same pattern appears later in the conquest, where some Canaanites remain in the land (Joshua 13:1-6). God’s faithfulness does not remove the need for continued obedience. Victory comes through God’s intervention, not merely human effort.

Application

We learn to rely on God’s power, not our own strength. The victory came because God fought for Israel. In our lives, we face battles against sin, fear, and doubt. We can trust that God is with us and will give us strength. We also learn to persevere. The Israelites did not stop after the first success. They continued until the task was done. We should not give up when we face obstacles. Instead, we press on, knowing God will help us finish what He has called us to do.

Reflection

This verse also warns us that some enemies may remain. Even after a great spiritual victory, we may still face temptations or old habits. We must not be discouraged. God’s plan is not finished. He will give us grace to deal with what remains. Our part is to stay faithful and trust His timing. The survivors in the cities remind us that the battle is not over until God says it is over. We can rest in His sovereignty, knowing He will complete the good work He began in us.