CHAPTER SUMMARIES & DEVOTIONS: Joshua
Read, study, and apply each chapter in Joshua as you read through the Scriptures.
JOSHUA 1: Courage for the Journey
The Book of Joshua begins with God commissioning Joshua to lead Israel after Moses’ death. God promises Joshua that He will be with him just as He was with Moses, instructing him to be strong and courageous. Joshua is commanded to obey all the laws given through Moses, meditate on them day and night, and not turn from them. This obedience, rooted in faith, is the key to success, and God reassures Joshua that He will be with him wherever he goes. He then commands the officers of Israel to prepare provisions, as they are about to cross the Jordan River to take possession of the land God has promised.
Just as Joshua faced daunting challenges, we may find ourselves amid seemingly insurmountable obstacles. In these moments, God’s command to be strong and courageous is not just a directive but a comforting reminder that we are never alone. As we meditate on His Word and remain obedient to His instructions, we can confidently move forward, knowing He is with us. His presence and promises anchor us in the storm, enabling us to step out in faith, even when the future seems uncertain. Let us embrace this call to courage, knowing that He is our ever-present help, our strength in times of weakness.
JOSHUA 2: Trusting God in Uncertain Times
Joshua 2 recounts how Joshua sends two spies to Jericho. They enter the city and stay with Rahab, a harlot. When the king of Jericho learns of their presence, Rahab hides the spies on her roof and lies to the king’s men, saying they already left. She then tells the spies that the inhabitants of Jericho fear Israel because of what God has done. In return for her protection, the spies promise to spare her and her family when they attack. Rahab lowers them down the city wall with a scarlet cord, and they escape back to Joshua with their report.
Rahab’s faith and courage in hiding the spies is a powerful testament to the transformative power of God’s grace. Despite her past and the fear gripping her people, Rahab trusted God’s power. Her faith was not in vain, for it led to her and her family’s salvation. This story is a beacon of hope, showing that no one is beyond the reach of God’s grace. Like Rahab, we are called to trust in God’s promises, even when circumstances seem uncertain. Our faith in His plan can be a source of inspiration for others, demonstrating the impact of believing and acting on God’s word.
JOSHUA 3: When God Goes Before Us
This chapter describes how the Israelites prepare to cross the Jordan River. As they reach the river’s edge, God instructs Joshua to have the priests carry the Ark of the Covenant ahead of the people. When the priests step into the water, the river stops flowing, allowing the Israelites to cross on dry ground. This miraculous event demonstrates God’s presence and power, confirming Joshua’s leadership and fulfilling His promise to bring Israel into the Promised Land.
God sometimes calls us to step out in faith, even when the way seems unclear. Like the Israelites crossing the Jordan, we must trust in His guidance, knowing He goes before us and makes a way. When we obediently follow God’s leading, He can remove obstacles and fulfill His promises. This passage encourages us to trust God’s timing and power, reminding us that our faith in Him will open doors that seem impossible to cross.
JOSHUA 4: Passing Down a Legacy of Faith
Under Joshua’s leadership, the Israelites cross the Jordan River on dry ground as God miraculously halts the river’s flow. Joshua commands twelve men, one from each tribe, to take stones from the middle of the river and set them up at their camp in Gilgal. These stones serve as a memorial to remind future generations of how the Lord dried up the Jordan, just as He did the Red Sea, allowing Israel to cross safely. The chapter concludes with the Israelites acknowledging God’s mighty power and their commitment to fear and serve Him.
The twelve stones from the Jordan are a powerful reminder of God’s faithfulness and the importance of remembering His works. Just as Israel was instructed to teach future generations about God’s miracles, we are called to pass on our faith stories. Reflecting on God’s past faithfulness strengthens our trust in Him during present challenges. When we establish “memorials” in our lives—whether through journaling, sharing testimonies, or setting up physical reminders—we cultivate a heart of gratitude and a legacy of faith that encourages others to trust in God, especially our children
JOSHUA 5: Spiritual Readiness for Life’s Challenges
The Israelites begin their preparation to conquer Jericho. After crossing the Jordan River, Joshua circumcises the men of Israel as a sign of renewed covenant obedience, since the rite had been neglected during their wilderness journey. They celebrate the Passover, marking their deliverance from Egypt, and the manna ceases, signaling the start of their reliance on the produce of the Promised Land. Finally, Joshua encounters a divine being, the Commander of the LORD’s army, who instructs him to remove his sandals because he is on holy ground.
As the Israelites prepare for battle, God calls them to renew their commitment to Him. This passage reminds us that we must be spiritually prepared before we face challenges, aligning ourselves with God’s will. Just as Joshua is reminded of the holiness of the ground he stands on, we, too, must recognize that our lives are lived in the presence of a holy God. Spiritual preparation, including confession, obedience, and worship, equips us to face life’s battles with confidence that God is with us.
JOSHUA 6: Unconventional Victories
Joshua leads the Israelites in the conquest of Jericho. The Lord instructs them to march around the city once a day for six days, with seven priests carrying trumpets of rams’ horns before the ark of the covenant. On the seventh day, they march around the city seven times, and when the priests blow their trumpets, the people shout, and the walls of Jericho collapse. The Israelites then destroy everything in the city except for Rahab and her family, who are spared because she hid the spies. The city is burned, and the Israelites are forbidden from taking any spoils.
The fall of Jericho reminds us of the power of obedience and faith in God’s promises. The Israelites follow God’s instructions even though they seem unconventional, and they witness a miraculous victory. In our lives, God may call us to act in ways that defy human logic or expectations, but when we trust and obey Him, we experience His mighty works. This passage encourages us to trust God’s plan and timing, even when we don’t understand it, knowing that He is faithful to fulfill His promises when we walk in obedience.
JOSHUA 7: The High Cost of Hidden Sin
Israel faces a setback at Ai after Achan secretly takes forbidden items from Jericho, violating God’s command. The Lord’s anger burns against Israel, leading to their defeat in battle. Joshua seeks the Lord, who reveals Achan’s sin as the cause of their failure. The people of Israel identify Achan through a casting of lots. He confesses his sin, and the people execute him and his family, destroying all he took and burying him under a heap of stones. This act turns God’s anger away from Israel, restoring His favor.
Sin in our lives, even when hidden, disrupts our fellowship with God and leads to defeat. Achan’s disobedience shows that one person’s sin can bring consequences to many. Like Joshua and the Israelites, we must diligently seek out sin and deal with it decisively. Confession and repentance are essential to restore our relationship with God. Just as the Lord’s anger was turned away after Achan’s sin was dealt with, God is ready to forgive and restore us when we come to Him in repentance.
JOSHUA 8: Victory and Blessing through Obedience
After dealing with Achan’s sin, Israel returns to Ai, this time with God’s blessing. The Lord instructs Joshua to set an ambush behind the city. As the main army draws the men of Ai out, the ambushers capture and set the city on fire. Joshua and the Israelites then defeat Ai’s army, completely destroying the city and its inhabitants. Following this victory, Joshua builds an altar on Mount Ebal, writes the law of Moses on stones, and reads the blessings and curses to all Israel as a reminder of their covenant with God.
Obedience to God brings victory and blessing. When Joshua and Israel obey God’s instructions at Ai, they experience a complete triumph, contrasting their earlier defeat due to disobedience. This teaches us that following God’s guidance, even when it seems unconventional, leads to success. Just as Joshua renewed the covenant by reading the law to the people, we should regularly remind ourselves of God’s Word and His promises. True success comes from living in obedience to God, seeking His will, and staying committed to His covenant.
JOSHUA 9: The Importance of Prayer for Godly Decisions
The Gibeonites, fearing Israel’s advance, deceive Joshua and the leaders of Israel by pretending to be from a distant land. Without seeking the Lord’s counsel, Israel makes a peace treaty with them. When the truth is discovered, the Israelites honor their oath but make the Gibeonites servants as woodcutters and water carriers for the congregation and the altar of the Lord. Though deceived, Israel keeps their word, demonstrating the importance of integrity even in difficult circumstances.
This account reminds us to seek God’s guidance in all decisions. The Israelites’ failure to consult the Lord before making a treaty with the Gibeonites led to unintended consequences. We should learn from their mistake and bring every matter before God in prayer. Maintaining integrity and honor is crucial even when we face situations where we have been deceived or misled. Trusting God’s wisdom and guidance can help us avoid pitfalls and make wise choices.
JOSHUA 10: Faith for the Impossible
When five Amorite kings unite against Gibeon, Israel comes to the city’s defense. Joshua and his army launch a surprise attack, and the Lord confuses the enemy. God also causes the sun to stand still, prolonging the day until Israel achieves complete victory. The Amorite kings hide in a cave, but Joshua orders the cave to be sealed until the battle is won. Afterward, the kings are executed, and Israel continues its campaign, defeating many cities, demonstrating the Lord’s power and faithfulness.
This chapter should remind us that God fights for His people and gives them victory in impossible situations. Joshua’s faith in God’s promise of deliverance resulted in the Lord working miraculously on Israel’s behalf. We, too, can trust that God will intervene on our behalf when we are walking in His will. Like Joshua, we should pray boldly, believing God can do the impossible. Such should encourage us to believe in God’s power to overcome any obstacle and fight our battles, knowing He is with us.
JOSHUA 11: The Blessing of Complete Obedience
Israel faces a coalition of northern kings led by Jabin, king of Hazor. The Lord assures Joshua of victory, and Israel defeats this vast army in a surprise attack at the waters of Merom. Following God’s instructions, Joshua cripples the horses and burns the chariots of the enemy. He also captures and destroys Hazor, the leading city, and continues to subdue the remaining territories. Joshua faithfully executes the Lord’s commands, leaving nothing undone that the Lord commanded Moses, and the land finally has rest from war.
This passage highlights the importance of complete obedience to God’s commands. Joshua’s success in battle was directly tied to his faithful execution of God’s instructions, even when they involved difficult actions. We, too, are called to obey God fully, not picking and choosing which commands to follow. Partial obedience can lead to incomplete victory and lingering issues. By committing to follow God’s Word in its entirety, we can experience the fullness of His blessings and the peace that comes from walking in His will.
JOSHUA 12: Count Your Blessings, Name Them One by One
Joshua records Israel’s victories under Moses and himself, listing the kings and territories conquered on both sides of the Jordan. Thirty-one kings in Canaan are defeated, demonstrating God’s faithfulness in fulfilling His promise to give the land to Israel. This record serves as a testimony to the power and faithfulness of God, who has given Israel the land as an inheritance, just as He promised their forefathers.
The detailed account of Israel’s victories reminds us that God is faithful to His promises. Each king and territory defeated by Israel testifies to God’s power and commitment to His people. As believers, we can look back on the victories God has given us and be encouraged. These memories strengthen our faith and remind us of God’s ability to fulfill His promises. Just as Israel recorded their victories, we should remember and recount the ways God has worked in our lives, giving Him praise and trusting Him for future victories.
JOSHUA 13: Claiming God’s Promises Now and for the Future
Joshua grows old, and the Lord instructs him to divide the remaining land among the tribes of Israel, even though much territory remains to be possessed. The Lord details the areas yet to be conquered and commands that the land east of the Jordan, already won under Moses, be distributed to the tribes of Reuben, Gad, and half of Manasseh. The Levites receive no land inheritance, for the Lord Himself is their inheritance. The chapter concludes with the specific allotments given to the tribes on the east side of the Jordan.
Even as Joshua nears the end of his life, the work of claiming God’s promises continues. This teaches us that our journey of faith and obedience to God is lifelong. Some areas of our lives still need to be surrendered to God, much like the land that remained to be conquered. We must continue to press on in faith, trusting God to fulfill His promises. Additionally, the Levites’ inheritance being the Lord Himself reminds us that our greatest reward is not earthly possessions but our relationship with God.
JOSHUA 14: The Reward of Perseverance
Caleb approaches Joshua to remind him of the promise Moses made 45 years earlier. At 85 years old, Caleb claims the hill country of Hebron as his inheritance because he wholly followed the Lord. Joshua blesses Caleb and grants him Hebron. The text highlights Caleb’s unwavering faith and strength, even in his old age. Hebron, previously known as Kirjath Arba, becomes Caleb’s inheritance because of his faithfulness.
Caleb’s story teaches us that God honors faithfulness, regardless of age. Caleb’s courage and unwavering trust in God’s promises should inspire us to remain steadfast in our faith, even when we face challenges. Just as Caleb claimed Hebron because of his unwavering trust in God, we, too, can claim God’s promises by standing firm in our faith. In our later years, we should continue to serve the Lord wholeheartedly, knowing that our labor in the Lord is never in vain.
JOSHUA 15: Passing on a Godly Legacy
The boundaries of the land allotted to the tribe of Judah are detailed. Caleb, from the tribe of Judah, drives out the three sons of Anak from Hebron. He then offers his daughter Achsah in marriage to whoever conquers Kirjath Sepher. Othniel, Caleb’s nephew, captures it and marries Achsah. Achsah requests and receives springs of water from Caleb, showing the importance of provision and inheritance.
Judah’s inheritance reminds us of the importance of God-given boundaries and the significance of spiritual inheritance. Caleb’s example of passing on a legacy to the next generation is crucial for believers today. As Caleb provided for his daughter, we should ensure that our children receive not just material blessings but also spiritual guidance and a legacy of faith. Our actions and faith today will impact the spiritual inheritance of future generations.
JOSHUA 16: Consequences of Compromise
The land allotted to the tribes of Ephraim and Manasseh, descendants of Joseph, is described. However, the Ephraimites do not drive out the Canaanites from Gezer, allowing them to dwell in the land and become forced laborers. This partial obedience has lasting consequences, as the Canaanites continue to live among the Israelites.
The Ephraimites’ failure to fully obey God’s command by leaving the Canaanites in the land warns about the dangers of partial obedience. God calls us to complete obedience, as compromise can lead to future challenges and spiritual struggles. In our lives, we must diligently follow God’s commands, resisting the temptation to compromise with sin. Only by complete obedience can we fully enjoy God’s blessings.
JOSHUA 17: God’s Provision and Our Responsibility
Manasseh’s inheritance is detailed, including lands on both sides of the Jordan River. The daughters of Zelophehad receive an inheritance because there are no male heirs. However, the Manassites fail to fully drive out the Canaanites, similar to the Ephraimites. When they complain about the size of their land, Joshua challenges them to clear the forested hill country to expand their territory.
The story of Manasseh teaches us about God’s provision and justice, as seen in the inheritance of Zelophehad’s daughters. Yet, their failure to drive out the Canaanites reminds us of the consequences of incomplete obedience. When faced with challenges, like the Manassites who desired more land, we should be ready to put in the effort required to receive God’s full blessing. God provides, but He also expects us to act with faith and diligence.
JOSHUA 18: Pursuing Your Spiritual Inheritance
The Israelites gather at Shiloh, where the Tabernacle is set up. Seven tribes have not yet received their inheritance, so Joshua instructs them to send three men from each tribe to survey the land and divide it into seven parts. The land is then divided by lot before the Lord. The tribe of Benjamin receives its inheritance, with its boundaries and cities listed in detail.
God’s provision for His people is evident in the careful division of the Promised Land. Each tribe is given specific instructions to receive their inheritance, showing that God’s blessings are meant to be actively pursued. Just as the Israelites needed to step out and survey the land, we are called to actively seek and claim God's promises. We must approach God’s Word intentionally, seeking His direction and embracing the spiritual inheritance He offers through Christ.
JOSHUA 19: Perseverance in God’s Plan
The remaining six tribes receive their inheritances by lot. The specific territories for Simeon, Zebulun, Issachar, Asher, Naphtali, and Dan are described, including their boundaries and cities. The tribe of Dan initially struggles with their allotted land and later captures the city of Leshem, renaming it Dan. Joshua himself is given the city of Timnath Serah in the hill country of Ephraim, where he settles.
God’s attention to detail is seen in how He assigns the inheritance for each tribe. He knows the needs and capacities of His people and provides accordingly. However, like the tribe of Dan, there are times when our circumstances require perseverance and adaptability. When faced with challenges in what God has given us, we should trust His wisdom and be willing to persist or make necessary adjustments. Our faithfulness in using what God has entrusted to us reflects our trust in His perfect provision.
JOSHUA 20: The Lord, Our Refuge
The Lord instructs Joshua to designate cities of refuge as He had commanded through Moses. These cities provide protection for anyone who accidentally kills another person, allowing them to flee there to avoid revenge until they stand trial. Six cities are chosen across the land: Kedesh, Shechem, Hebron, Bezer, Ramoth, and Golan, ensuring accessibility for all Israelites.
The cities of refuge illustrate God’s mercy and justice. Even in cases of accidental wrongdoing, God provides a means of protection and a fair trial. This reflects His nature as both just and compassionate. In Christ, we find our ultimate refuge, as He offers us protection from the consequences of sin and provides us with a place of safety. We can trust in His mercy and run to Him when we fall short, knowing He is our sanctuary.
JOSHUA 21: The Support of God’s Servants
The Levites, having no land of their own, are given cities and surrounding pasturelands within the territories of the other tribes. The Israelites give forty-eight cities to the Levites by lot, including the six cities of refuge. The chapter concludes by affirming that the Lord has fulfilled all His promises to Israel; not one word of His promises has failed.
God’s faithfulness is prominently displayed as the Levites receive their inheritance, showing He cares for all His people, including those dedicated to His service. The distribution of cities among the tribes reflects the communal responsibility to support those who serve in ministry. We are reminded that God’s promises are unfailing and that He is faithful in every detail of His Word. Just as the Levites were provided for, we can trust that God will meet our needs as we commit ourselves to His service.
JOSHUA 22: Building Bridges of Understanding
Joshua blesses the tribes of Reuben, Gad, and half of Manasseh, allowing them to return to their lands east of the Jordan. Before departing, they build a large altar by the Jordan River. The other tribes misinterpret this as rebellion and prepare for war, but the eastern tribes explain that the altar is a witness to their shared faith in the Lord. Peace is restored, and the tribes recognize that the Lord is among them.
The incident with the altar teaches us the importance of clear communication and understanding among God’s people. Misunderstandings can lead to unnecessary conflict, even among those who share the same faith. The eastern tribes built the altar as a symbol of unity and a reminder of their common worship of God, not as an act of rebellion. In our relationships, we should listen carefully and seek clarification before jumping to conclusions, ensuring that our actions reflect unity and peace within the body of Christ.
JOSHUA 23: Remaining Faithful to the End
Joshua, now old, gathers Israel’s leaders and reminds them of God’s faithfulness in giving them the land. He warns them to remain faithful to the Lord, avoiding the idols of the nations around them. Joshua emphasizes that they will lose the land if they turn away from God. He urges them to cling to the Lord and be courageous in obeying His commandments.
Joshua’s farewell address powerfully reminds us to remain faithful to God throughout our lives. He emphasizes the importance of clinging to the Lord and avoiding the temptations of the world. We are called to be vigilant in our walk with God, understanding that turning away from Him can lead to spiritual loss. Joshua’s words encourage us to be courageous in our faith, holding fast to God’s Word and trusting in His promises, no matter the challenges we face.
JOSHUA 24: Choose Whom You Will Serve
Joshua assembles all the tribes at Shechem and recounts God’s mighty acts from the time of Abraham to their conquest of the Promised Land. He challenges the people to serve the Lord faithfully and reject other gods. The people renew their covenant with the Lord, declaring their allegiance to Him. Joshua sets up a stone as a witness to their commitment and then dies at the age of 110, leaving a legacy of faithfulness.
Joshua’s final challenge to the Israelites is a call to decisive commitment to God. He urges them to choose whom they will serve, declaring his own unwavering loyalty to the Lord. This decision is crucial for every believer. We must continually choose to serve God with sincerity and truth, rejecting the idols of our time. Joshua’s example teaches us that our lives should reflect a steadfast devotion to God, influencing others to do the same. As we make our choices clear, we leave a legacy of faith that honors the Lord.