But all the siluer, and gold, and vessels of brasse and yron, are consecrated vnto the Lord: they shall come into the treasurie of the Lord. Joshua 6:19 (KJV)
Context and Background: Joshua 6:19 is part of the narrative of the conquest of Jericho, a significant event as the Israelites entered the Promised Land. The city of Jericho was the first major obstacle they encountered, and its fall marked a crucial victory for Israel under Joshua’s leadership.
The Conquest of Jericho: Before the walls fell, the Lord gave Joshua a unique battle strategy. The Israelites marched around the city once each day for six days, and on the seventh day they marched around seven times, blew trumpets, and shouted. When they obeyed, the walls miraculously collapsed and the people of Israel gained victory.
The Command regarding the Spoils: After the walls fell, the Lord commanded that specific items from the spoils—silver, gold, and vessels made of brass and iron—were to be consecrated to Him and brought into the treasury of the Lord. All other items in the city were to be destroyed, while personal belongings such as clothing could be kept.
Consecration to the Lord: The consecration of these precious items was an act of dedicating them to God. By setting apart the silver, gold, and metal vessels, the Israelites acknowledged that their triumph was due to God’s power and intervention. It was a tangible expression of thanks and recognition of God’s role in their success.
Lessons and Application:
Recognizing God’s Sovereignty – The command to consecrate reminds us to recognize God’s sovereignty in our lives. Just as the Israelites credited their victory to the Lord, we should acknowledge God’s hand in our successes.
Gratitude and Thankfulness – The act of setting the spoils apart demonstrates a heart of gratitude. We are called to be thankful for God’s provision and to cultivate thankfulness for all He has done and continues to do.
Giving Back to God – Offering the consecrated items to the treasury shows a willingness to give back what we have received. Likewise, we are invited to return to God through tithes, offerings, and service, recognizing that everything belongs to Him.
Trusting in God’s Instructions – The fall of Jericho was achieved by obeying specific divine instructions. This reminds us that obedience to God’s commands leads to victory, and that trusting His guidance can help us overcome our own obstacles.
In conclusion, Joshua 6:19 teaches us about consecration, gratitude, and acknowledging God’s sovereignty. It calls us to be thankful for God’s provision, to give back to Him, and to trust in His instructions as we walk in faith.
