How to Win Battles God’s Way (joshua 5-6)

Today, we’re diving into Joshua 5 and 6—one of the most famous battles in the Bible: the Battle of Jericho!

But here’s the crazy part… Israel doesn’t win with swords or strategy. They win by obeying God, marching, and shouting!

It’s an incredible story of faith, obedience, and watching God do the impossible.

So grab your Bible, hit that like button, and let’s explore Joshua 5 and 6 together!

Section 1: Preparing for Battle (Joshua 5:1-12)

Before the battle even begins, God makes sure Israel is spiritually ready.

1. Circumcision & Renewal of the Covenant

• All the men born in the wilderness had never been circumcised, so Joshua makes sure they fulfill God’s command.
• This wasn’t just about physical circumcision—it was about spiritually renewing their commitment to God.

2. The First Passover in the Promised Land

• After they heal, the Israelites celebrate Passover—remembering how God rescued them from Egypt.
• This marks a huge moment: Their time of wandering is over.

3. The Manna Stops

• Up until now, God had provided manna from heaven. But now that they’re in the land, the manna stops, and they eat from the produce of Canaan.
• This was a sign: God was leading them into a new season.

Section 2: The Commander of the Lord’s Army (Joshua 5:13-15)

Now, here’s one of the most mind-blowing moments in the Bible.

Joshua is near Jericho, probably strategizing, when suddenly he sees a man with a drawn sword.

Joshua asks, ‘Are you for us or for our enemies?’

And the man answers:

‘Neither, but as commander of the Lord’s army I have now come.’

This wasn’t just an angel—this was likely a pre-incarnate appearance of Jesus Himself!

Joshua falls facedown in worship, and the commander tells him:

‘Take off your sandals, for the place where you are standing is holy.’

This moment reminds us: The battle belongs to God. It’s not about asking God to be on our side—it’s about making sure we are on His side.

Section 3: The Battle Plan (Joshua 6:1-14)

Now, God gives Joshua the battle plan… and let’s be honest, it sounds crazy!

• March around Jericho once a day for six days.
• On the seventh day, march seven times, then shout!
• The walls will fall down, and you’ll take the city.

No weapons, no battering rams—just marching, trumpets, and faith.

Why? Because God wanted them to know that the victory was HIS, not theirs.

Section 4: The Fall of Jericho (Joshua 6:15-21)

On the seventh day, they march around seven times. Then, Joshua commands:

‘Shout! For the Lord has given you the city!’

And BOOM—the walls collapse! The Israelites rush in and conquer Jericho.

This wasn’t just about a military victory—this was about faith.

Hebrews 11:30 tells us:

‘By faith the walls of Jericho fell, after the army had marched around them for seven days.’

Sometimes, God’s instructions don’t make sense to us, but obedience leads to victory.

Section 5: Rahab’s Rescue (Joshua 6:22-25)

Before the battle, the spies promised to save Rahab and her family.

So, as Jericho falls, Rahab is rescued—and she becomes part of Israel!

Her story is proof that:

• God’s grace is for everyone.
• Faith saves us. Rahab believed in God before she saw the miracle.
• She became part of God’s bigger story. Rahab is in Jesus’ family line (Matthew 1:5)!

God can take anyone—no matter their past—and use them for His glory.

Section 6: How This Applies to Us Today

So, what do we learn from Joshua 5–6? Here are three big takeaways:

1. Obedience brings victory. Even when God’s instructions seem strange, trust and obey.
2. God fights for us. The battle isn’t ours—it’s the Lord’s.
3. Faith opens the door to salvation. Just like Rahab, when we trust God, He saves us.

And here’s the best part—just like Joshua led Israel into victory, Jesus leads us into victory over sin, fear, and anything we face!