“Joshua therefore came unto them suddenly, and went up from Gilgal all night.”
Context:To understand Joshua 10:9 better, let’s consider its context. In the previous verses, we read about the alliance of five Amorite kings who gathered against Gibeon because they had made a covenant with Israel. The Gibeonites, fearing for their lives, sent word to Joshua for help. Joshua, with divine guidance, decided to come to their aid.
Joshua’s response:Joshua, as a strong and capable leader, wasted no time in responding to the Gibeonites’ plea for help. Verse 9 tells us that he came to their aid suddenly. The phrase “went up from Gilgal all night” implies that Joshua and his army traveled throughout the night to reach the Gibeonite territory and provide assistance.
Courage and determination:Joshua’s swift response reveals his courage and determination to protect those who had sought the protection of Israel. Despite the odds stacked against them, Joshua was not willing to let the Gibeonites face their enemies alone. He took immediate action, demonstrating his faith in God’s promises and his commitment to fulfilling his leadership responsibilities.
Trust in God:Although Joshua’s actions were prompt, it’s important to note that he did not act independently. Throughout the book of Joshua, we see Joshua seeking guidance from the Lord, and in this situation as well, he would have sought God’s direction. Joshua’s decision to come to the aid of the Gibeonites was based on his trust in God’s promises and his confidence that God would be with him in battle.
Application:Joshua’s example challenges us to be people of action and integrity. When faced with challenges, we should not hesitate to stand up for what is right and come to the aid of those in need. Like Joshua, we should seek God’s guidance and trust in His promises as we navigate difficult situations.
In summary, Joshua 10:9 highlights Joshua’s swift response to the Gibeonites’ plea for help, demonstrating his courage, determination, and trust in God. It encourages us to be people of action, relying on God’s guidance and standing up for what is right.
