Joshua 11:6

Then the LORD said to Joshua, "Do not be afraid of them, for by this time tomorrow I will deliver all of them slain before Israel. You are to hamstring their horses and burn up their chariots."

Study Bible

Then the LORD said to Joshua
This phrase indicates direct divine communication, emphasizing the leadership role of Joshua as God's chosen successor to Moses. It reflects the ongoing relationship between God and His people, where God provides guidance and assurance. This divine interaction is consistent with other instances in the Old Testament where God speaks to His leaders, such as Moses at the burning bush (Exodus 3) and Samuel in the temple (1 Samuel 3).

Do not be afraid of them
God's command to not fear is a recurring theme in Scripture, often given to leaders facing overwhelming odds. This assurance is rooted in God's sovereignty and faithfulness, as seen in Deuteronomy 31:6, where Moses tells Israel to be strong and courageous. The command addresses the natural human tendency towards fear in the face of formidable enemies, reminding believers of God's power and presence.

for by this time tomorrow I will deliver all of them slain before Israel
This promise of victory underscores God's control over the outcome of battles. It reflects the covenant relationship where God fights for Israel, as seen in previous victories like the crossing of the Red Sea (Exodus 14:13-14). The specific timing ("by this time tomorrow") highlights God's precise orchestration of events, reinforcing trust in His promises.

You are to hamstring their horses
Hamstringing horses was a military strategy to incapacitate the enemy's cavalry, ensuring they could not be used again in battle. This action reflects a reliance on God's power rather than military might, as horses and chariots were symbols of strength in ancient warfare (Psalm 20:7). It also aligns with God's instructions to not accumulate horses, which could lead to reliance on human strength (Deuteronomy 17:16).

and burn up their chariots
Burning chariots further symbolizes the destruction of the enemy's military capabilities. Chariots were advanced war technology, and their destruction signifies the futility of human power against God's will. This act serves as a reminder of God's supremacy and the importance of obedience to His commands, as seen in the destruction of Jericho (Joshua 6). It also prefigures the ultimate victory over sin and death through Jesus Christ, who triumphs not by earthly power but through sacrificial love.

Persons / Places / Events

1. The LORD
The covenant-keeping God of Israel, who provides guidance and assurance to His people.

2. Joshua
The leader of Israel, successor to Moses, tasked with leading the Israelites into the Promised Land.

3. The Enemy Kings and Armies
A coalition of Canaanite kings and their armies who oppose Israel's conquest of the land.

4. Horses and Chariots
Symbols of military power and strength in ancient warfare, representing the might of the enemy forces.

5. Israel
The chosen people of God, who are in the process of conquering the Promised Land as part of God's covenant promise.

Teaching Points

Trust in God's Promises
Just as God assured Joshua of victory, believers today can trust in God's promises and His faithfulness.

Overcoming Fear
God's command to Joshua not to fear is a reminder that fear can be overcome by faith in God's power and plan.

Divine Strategy
God's instruction to hamstring the horses and burn the chariots teaches reliance on divine strategy rather than human strength.

God's Sovereignty
The passage underscores God's control over the events of history and His ability to deliver His people.

Spiritual Warfare
The physical battle faced by Joshua can be seen as a metaphor for spiritual battles, where believers are called to rely on God's strength.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does God's assurance to Joshua in this passage encourage you in facing your own fears and challenges?

2. What are some "horses and chariots" in your life that you might be tempted to rely on instead of trusting in God?

3. How can the principle of divine strategy in this passage be applied to decision-making in your life?

4. In what ways does this passage demonstrate God's sovereignty, and how can that understanding impact your daily walk with Him?

5. How can the themes of this passage be connected to the New Testament teachings on spiritual warfare and reliance on God's power?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Deuteronomy 20:1
This verse provides a similar assurance from God to Israel not to fear their enemies, emphasizing God's presence and deliverance.

Psalm 20:7
Highlights the contrast between trusting in chariots and horses versus trusting in the name of the LORD.

Isaiah 31:1
Warns against relying on horses and chariots for security instead of trusting in God.

Romans 8:31
Echoes the theme of God's support, stating that if God is for us, who can be against us?