“But I would not hearken unto Balaam; therefore he blessed you still: so I delivered you out of his hand.”
Context: The book of Joshua records the events after the death of Moses and the Israelites’ entry into the Promised Land. Joshua, who succeeded Moses as the leader of the Israelites, led them in conquering various territories. In Joshua 24, Joshua gathers the people of Israel to Shechem to renew their covenant with God.
Acknowledging God’s Faithfulness: In verse 10, Joshua reminds the people of Israel of God’s faithfulness in delivering them from the hand of Balaam. Balaam was a prophet whom the king of Moab had hired to curse the Israelites, but God intervened and turned his curses into blessings (Numbers 22-24). Despite Balaam’s attempts to curse them, God blessed the Israelites and protected them.
God’s Sovereign Intervention: The phrase “I would not hearken unto Balaam” highlights God’s sovereignty. Although Balaam had been hired to curse Israel, God chose not to listen to him. God’s refusal to listen to Balaam’s words demonstrates His authority over the affairs of nations and His commitment to fulfilling His promises to His chosen people.
Divine Deliverance: Joshua emphasizes that it was God who delivered the Israelites from the hand of Balaam. Despite the threats and intentions of their enemies, God intervened and saved them. This highlights God’s power and protection over His people.
Application for Believers: This verse reminds us of God’s faithfulness and His ability to deliver us from any situation or enemy we face. It reassures us that when God is on our side, no one can prevail against us. As believers, we can trust in God’s sovereign intervention and His unfailing love to protect and guide us in all circumstances.
Gratitude and Trust: Reflecting on God’s faithfulness should lead us to gratitude and trust. Just as the Israelites were called to remember God’s deliverance, we should also recall God’s past faithfulness in our lives. This cultivates a heart of thanksgiving and strengthens our trust in Him for the future.
Renewing the Covenant: Joshua 24 is about renewing the covenant between God and His people. By reminding the Israelites of God’s deliverance, Joshua encourages them to reaffirm their commitment to serving and obeying God. In a similar way, this verse challenges us to renew our dedication to God and live in obedience to His commands.
Remember, studying the Bible involves exploring the context, understanding the text’s meaning, and applying its principles to our lives. I hope this study of Joshua 24:10 helps you gain insight into God’s faithfulness and encourages you in your faith journey.
