In part 1 & 2 of this article, we understood that Israel began the journey to capture the promised land of Canaan, but they had a serious obstacle in Jericho. Both Jericho, which controlled the way of ascent into these mountains, and Ai, another fortress, which stood at the end of the ascent must fall before they can crossover to the other side! This was indeed a difficult situation for them, seeing the fortified mountains of Jericho, the fortress of Ai, and the limitation of their own military prowess. However, God’s assurance of Victory was enough motivation for the Israelite, who needed to follow divine instructions in other to conquer the land of promise. In this same way, through the sacrifice of Christ, God has given us victory over all of life’s battles. He only commands us to obey him and follow the divine strategies He has outlined in His word for us to have victories. And so Jesus said, “”I have told you these things, so that in me you may have peace. In this world you will have trouble. But take heart! I have overcome the world.” Thus, assurance of Victory makes the difference.

Before the Lord outlined His plan, He graciously assured Joshua of victory.  ^“And the Lord said unto Joshua, See, I have given into thine hand Jericho, and the king thereof, and the mighty men of valour” (Joshua 6:2). Note the emphasis, “See, I have given.” Joshua was commanded to see, understand, and so reflect on the fact, as a matter of confidence, that Yahweh had already given them victory. Victory is always by the Lord’s hand, and since victory is by God’s power, we should expect it to be something that bypasses dependence on man and his own strength or abilities. So with the word “see” Joshua is called to see with eyes of faith and to envision Jericho as destroyed. Likewise over and over again in the New Testament, we are assured of our triumph over sin and satan. Apostle Paul Enthused, “But thanks be to God, who always leads us in His triumph in Christ, and manifests through us the sweet aroma of the knowledge of Him in every place” (2 Cor. 2:14). Indeed, we have been made more than conquerors through Christ our Lord (Romans 8:31-39).

Furthermore, the words, “I have given” represent a prophetic perfect tense which describes a future event or action as having already been accomplished. Victory was assured by the promise of an omnipotent, faithful, and immutable God. The ordinary method and weapons of warfare does not guaranty victory! God does! So, do not fuss over your battles, if God is involved, then victory is certain! Therefore, be still, God knows your way, and He will sure guide you to victory.

Joshua, God’s servant understood that the God who has promised and assured of Victory is certainly the one who knows the strategies to win the battle, hence, His instruction must be followed in order to have absolute victory. Wherefore, Joshua and his men were careful to employ God’s plan of victory as outlined in verses 3-7. “And ye shall compass the
city, all ye men of war, and go round about the city once. Thus shalt thou do six days. And seven priests shall bear before the ark seven trumpets of rams’ horns: and the seventh day ye shall compass the city seven times, and the priests shall blow with the trumpets.” Each day they were to march silently around the city with the priests, and follow God’s instructions in details.

The Bible is God’s instruction to the world. Though written by men who were inspired by God, it contains all that we need for life and godliness (2 Peter 1:4). “There’s nothing like the written Word of God for showing you the way to salvation through faith in Christ Jesus. Every part of Scripture is God-breathed and useful one way or another—showing us truth, exposing our rebellion, correcting our mistakes, training us to live God’s way. Through the Word we are put together and shaped up for the tasks God has for us.” ‭(2 Timothy‬ ‭3:14-17‬ ‭MSG)

As you march forward in the new year, “see” with eyes of faith and envision Jericho, which represents barriers, persecutions, problems, sicknesses, oppositions, and all manner of afflictions as destroyed. Be positive in your disposition. “Faith words are not just mere positive affirmations, they open your life up to the supernatural power of God.” -Bo Sanchez. Therefore, speak the word of faith and not failure; live the life of faith because you have been made a winner! You are winning! Yes, we are winning!

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