19
Preparing & Perseverance for Victory
John TiltonJoshua 6:20-21
When the trumpets sounded, the army shouted, and at the sound of the trumpet, when the men gave a loud shout, the wall collapsed; so everyone charged straight in, and they took the city. They devoted the city to the Lord and destroyed with the sword every living thing in it—men and women, young and old, cattle, sheep and donkeys.
Following God’s directions, on the seventh day, while sounding their trumpets for six days prior, the men gave a great shout that brought down the walls of Jericho. The Israelites were then able to storm and take the city and God directed.
I’m one who likes quick results. Thus, I often have to remind myself that some things take preparation time, as well as perseverance in continuance toward the goal and success I desire. In that time of perseverance, I am also reminded that challenges and obstacles may arise. Yet, I must keep my eye on the goal set before me. The Israelites who were sounding the trumpets each day must have pondered how their blowing trumpets each day might bring down the walls, especially as each day went on. Yet, their obedience and perseverance brought them victory.
I am thankful for this reminder that some goals and assignments or desires I have may require much preparation and perseverance. What I will need to do might not be completely understandable or seem to be progressing. However, I know that if I am confirmed and called to the goal before me; perseverance and prayer in the midst of routine tasks, challenges and obstacles will give me victory and success.
Dear Lord, I pray that when situations arise that require preparation and perseverance; that I will remember Jericho and what it took the Israelites to be victorious. May you enable me to be focused and perseverant.
