Daily Devotional
"Then the Lord said to Joshua, 'Stretch out the javelin that is in your hand toward Ai, for I will give it into your hand.' And Joshua stretched out the javelin that was in his hand toward the city"
Joshua 8:18
The javelin Joshua held up wasn’t just a military signal – it was a symbol of dependence on God’s power. As long as Joshua kept that javelin raised in obedience to God’s command, victory was assured. The moment reminds us of Moses holding up his staff during the battle against the Amalekites. The message is clear: victory belongs to the Lord.
How often do we try to fight our battles without acknowledging our need for God’s presence and power? We face challenges at work, in our marriages, with our children, and we think, “I’ve got this. I can handle this. I’ve done this before.” But success in any endeavor requires God’s presence and blessing. Human effort without divine empowerment leads to failure every time.
This isn’t just true for ancient military campaigns – it’s true for every area of our lives. The difference between victory and defeat isn’t our strength or strategy; it’s God’s presence with us. Whether it’s our marriage, parenting, career, or ministry, if God isn’t central to our efforts, we’re setting ourselves up for failure.
Today's Challenge
What battles are you currently trying to fight in your own strength? How can you practically acknowledge your need for God's presence and power in these areas?
Prayer
Father, forgive me for the times I've tried to handle life's challenges without seeking Your help. I confess my tendency toward self-sufficiency. Help me to remember that victory in every area of my life depends on Your presence with me, not my own strength or strategy. Teach me to raise my "javelin" in dependence on You. In Jesus' name, Amen.
