Read Joshua 11 (New International Version)
In Joshua 11, we encounter what might, at first glance, seem a harsh
and difficult passage. Joshua and Israel engage in extensive battles
against numerous Canaanite city-states coordinated by Jabin, king of
Hazor. The force arrayed against Israel is massive, described vividly in
verse 4:
> “They came out with all their troops and a large number of horses
and chariots—a huge army, as numerous as the sand on the seashore.” (New
International Version)
We should pause here and recognize the literary device used. The phrase “as numerous as the sand on the seashore” is a classic Hebrew metaphor indicating an overwhelming enemy (also used in Genesis 22:17, promising Abraham numerous descendants). God intentionally puts Israel in situations where victory seems impossible from a human standpoint. The purpose becomes clear—only God’s hand can provide victory.
Theologically, this reveals God’s sovereignty. The extensive list of kings and cities echo historical authenticity, matching archaeological evidence confirming extensive destructions in the late Bronze Age period. Though modern sensibilities struggle with such violent narratives, understanding ancient cultural and historical contexts helps deepen appreciation for the Bible’s authenticity.
Furthermore, this unity of enemy nations (northern tribes allied under Hazor’s leadership) juxtaposes strongly with the previous southern alliance in chapter 10, reminding readers of God’s continual, faithful provision in every challenge.
Cross-reference: Psalm 20:7 (New International
Version)
“Some trust in chariots and some in horses, but we trust in the name
of the Lord our God.”
An important emphasis in Joshua 11 is obedience. Joshua diligently obeyed God’s specific command to destroy the enemy’s chariots and hamstring their horses (v.9). Why? Historically, horses and chariots represented military might—power that tempted Israel to self-reliance instead of dependence upon God (Deuteronomy 17:16). Joshua’s obedience protected Israel spiritually, safeguarding her dependence upon Yahweh alone.
In verse 15, we read,
> “As the LORD commanded his servant Moses, so Moses commanded
Joshua, and Joshua did it; he left nothing undone of all that the LORD
commanded Moses.” (New International Version)
The Hebrew verb translated as “he left nothing undone,” lo-hesir davar, subtly stresses meticulous, wholehearted obedience to God’s commands. Joshua functioned as God’s faithful servant, completing tasks exactly as instructed, a versatile model for believers today who struggle with partial obedience or compromise.
Cross-reference: Deuteronomy 20:1 (New International
Version)
“When you go to war against your enemies and see horses and chariots
and an army greater than yours, do not be afraid…”
We come now to a significant theological point: the declaration that God “hardened” the enemy’s hearts (v. 20). For a Western Protestant reader, this phrase might raise tensions around free will and predestination. The Hebrew word translated as “hardened” is chazaq, meaning “to strengthen or confirm.” God judicially confirms decisions people freely make against Him, as seen earlier in Pharaoh’s story (Exodus 9:12). Renowned theologians such as Augustine and Calvin discussed these divine judgments—God’s sovereignty preserves human accountability, administering just judgment upon persistent rebellion. This insight should humble rather than embolden us, prompting sincere gratitude for God’s mercy extended toward us in Christ.
Archaeologically, layers of destruction matching Joshua’s campaign period have been found at Hazor, Israel’s principal northern opponent city. This bolsters our sense of the text’s reliability.
Cross-reference: Romans 9:18 (New International
Version)
“Therefore God has mercy on whom he wants to have mercy, and he
hardens whom he wants to harden.”
Like Israel, we may face troubles or battles seemingly beyond our abilities. Joshua urges us: trust not in human might, but firmly and obediently in the Lord. The narratives indeed cause discomfort—yet remind us clearly of God’s holiness, justice, and sovereignty. We are also reminded of our Savior, who conquers not through sword and violence, but through sacrificial love—the decisive victory at Calvary.
“Lead on, O King Eternal” (written by Ernest W. Shurtleff in 1887) beautifully captures today’s theme of trusting obediently in God’s guidance, declaring,
“Lead on, O King eternal, we follow not with fears,
For gladness breaks like morning where’er Thy face appears;
Thy cross is lifted o’er us; we journey in its light;
The crown awaits the conquest; lead on, O God of might.”
Gracious Sovereign Father,
Grant us hearts like Joshua’s—hearts that trust fully in Your power and
depend wholeheartedly upon Your instructions. Give us humility before
passages that challenge us, wisdom to learn from ancient contexts, and
courage to obey even in challenging circumstances. Strengthen our faith,
Lord Jesus, as we surrender to Your perfect will, knowing that You have
already secured the victory at Calvary. Lead us onward confidently, in
the power of Your Holy Spirit, we pray. Amen.