More Than A Conqueror Devotional #3

January 11, 2010

And Joshua had commanded the people, saying, Ye shall not shout, nor make any noise with your voice, neither shall [any] word proceed out of your mouth, until the day I bid you shout; then shall ye shout. – Joshua 6:10

You may be familiar with the story Israel’s Promised Land and the walled city of Jericho. At the end of their forty year journey through the wilderness God brings Israel to the door step of their deliverance represented by the city of Jericho. Jericho was a fortified city with massive impenetrable walls. Joshua was given very specific instructions by God as to how He would deliver the city unto Israel. In turn Joshua gives Israel very specific instructions to how they should carry out God’s plans which includes remaining silent for a period of time. Though the Israelites knew that their God was able and faithful to keep His word they were to remain silent until Joshua gave them instruction to shout. There are occasions when you know that God has delivered into your hands a mighty blessing however by putting your mouth on it too soon you put the very blessing itself in jeopardy. Given the nature of this particular fight Israel was not to say anything before time, but as soon as Joshua gave them the word they were to shout. We must learn to occasionally keep quiet until it is time to shout.

We are more than conquerors today because the Lord Jesus is a master strategist and has developed an infallible battle plan that will result in our absolute victory as long as we stick to the plan. We do not often understand the will of God; “For my thoughts are not your thoughts, neither are your ways my ways, says the LORD” Isaiah 55:8. Dearly beloved recognize that our Lord exists in all time and sees the end from the beginning. The Lord may have been kind enough to give you a glimpse of the victory that is to come, but be certain that you are not to maintain a spirit of quietness until such time as you are then able to shout. Recognize that even our praise is subject to be attacked and the adversary would welcome the chance to foil God’s plan by our invitation. Remain faithful and steadfast. Do not hold back that which God has freed you to release and in turn hold tight to that which Christ has instructed you to retain. The day of jubilee will come and when it does be sure you SHOUT!