“For it was of the Lord to harden their hearts, that they should come against Israel in battle, that he might destroy them utterly, and that they might have no favor, but that he might destroy them, as the Lord commanded Moses.”
Historical Context: Joshua 11 records the conquest of the Promised Land under the leadership of Joshua, following Moses’ death. The Israelites faced various battles against the Canaanite kings who opposed them.
God’s Sovereignty and His Purpose: In this verse, we see that God allowed the hearts of the Canaanite kings to be hardened, causing them to gather their armies and come against Israel in battle. It is important to note that it was God who hardened their hearts, not their own willful decision. This demonstrates God’s sovereignty and His ultimate control over the affairs of nations and individuals.
Divine Judgment: The purpose of hardening their hearts and bringing the Canaanite kings against Israel was for the divine judgment and destruction of these nations. God had commanded Moses to utterly destroy the Canaanite nations due to their wickedness and idolatry (Deuteronomy 7:1-2). God used the Israelites as instruments of His judgment, executing His justice upon these nations.
God’s Faithfulness: Throughout the conquest of the Promised Land, God remained faithful to His promises to the Israelites. He had pledged to give them the land, and He fulfilled His word by empowering them to defeat their enemies. The hardening of the Canaanite kings’ hearts served as part of God’s plan to ensure their complete destruction and to establish the Israelites in the land.
Lessons for Today:
- Trusting in God’s sovereignty: Joshua 11:20 reminds us that God is in control of all things, including the rise and fall of nations. We can trust in His wisdom and sovereignty, even when circumstances seem challenging or overwhelming.
- The consequences of sin: The judgment upon the Canaanite nations highlights the seriousness of sin and its consequences. It serves as a reminder that God will not tolerate persistent rebellion and wickedness. It is essential for us to repent and seek His forgiveness.
- God’s faithfulness and promises: Just as God remained faithful to His promises to the Israelites, He remains faithful to us today. We can rely on His promises, knowing that He will fulfill them in His perfect timing and according to His purposes.
- The role of obedience: The Israelites’ victory over their enemies was a result of their obedience to God’s command to utterly destroy the Canaanite nations. Obedience to God’s word is crucial for experiencing His blessings and victory in our lives.
In conclusion, Joshua 11:20 reveals God’s sovereignty, His righteous judgment, and His faithfulness. It teaches us to trust in His plans, to repent of our sins, and to obediently follow His commands.
