“The pattern of divine strategy for the conquest of Canaan was based on geographic factors: Jericho needed to fall before the Israelites could move forward. In spite of it being a well thought-out military plan, it would have failed had God not stepped in.’ -Campbell. The scriptures has it that, “Jericho was shut up tight as a drum because of the People of Israel: no one going in, no one coming out.” So, Israel had a problem: Jericho was tightly shut up, outer wall was about 6ft thick and 20ft high, inner wall was 12ft thick and 30ft high, and between the walls was a 15ft guarded walkway. But Jericho had to fall before Canaan can be captured. What are the strategies needed to achieve this great feat, seeing that Jericho is a fortified city, and Ai is a fortress?
God never leaves His people to their own strategies. He comes to their aid with His own divinely-provided plan. “Then he said to the people, “Go forward, and march around the city, and let the armed men go on before the ark of the LORD.”-Josh 6:7. Foolish as it may seem, that was the right strategy for the conquest. If God be involved in your plans and strategies for the new year, you are sure to win over life challenges and oppositions.

The scriptures repeatedly warns us against leaning on our own understanding (Prov. 3:5-6). No matter how lofty your dreams are, they can never be better than God’s plan and purpose for your life. So, let God lead the way! Don’t try to figure out everything on your own. The wise king councils, “You can make many plans, but the Lord’s purpose will prevail.” Prov. 19:21. Therefore,  you must listen for God’s voice in everything you do, everywhere you go; He’s the one who will keep you on track.

We each have our Jericho or Ai that stands in the way of our ability to possess our possessions in Christ; virtual strongholds that impede our spiritual progress. It may be a weakness in our character, a physical infirmity, it may be indifference to spiritual things in general or to a specific area we are neglecting. It could be materialism or some life-dominating pattern. It may be a difficulty at one’s place of work, in the home, with a particular personality, or it may be a financial burden. Regardless of the nature of our Jericho, we must realize victory always comes through God’s plan of deliverance—never ours! You’re winning! Yes, we are winning!

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