SCRIPTURE: Joshua 11:1-15
OBSERVATION:
Why hamstring the horses and burn the chariots? It would be the equivalent of destroying the guns and the ammunition of the enemy. This was God’s ways of saying, don’t trust in their weapons, trust in Me! Not sure if hamstringing the horses made them suffer, or just useless for battle (if I try to imagine it, I would think it is not pleasant). “Totally destroyed” is a Hebrew word for dedicated (sacrificed) for the Lord. Is this human sacrifice? Once again I must give God the benefit of the doubt, for I just cannot understand and handle this kind of death and violence. I understand the theological meaning and interpretation given to this, but it still is awful. Weak person that I am, I’m almost certain I could not have done this.
APPLICATION:
As Christians we need to be honest about the violence contained in this story. Its no wonder that Hollywood has never done (to the best of my knowledge) a movie of the Book of Joshua. It would definitely be R-rated for extreme blood and gore. Christians who complain about the violence on television and in video games need to take a second look at this book. But one important difference is purpose. War is hell, but who would deny that the bombing and shooting of WW2 was necessary for a greater purpose. I find reason for hope in that (1) God is not the source of this violence, we introduced it into the world, and (2) God is controlling and directing its destruction for His purpose, to restore Paradise.
PRAYER:
Lord, I admit it, I am weak. I cannot stomach this kind of violence. I choose to trust You, and to cling to Your good purpose, and the wisdom of Your unfolding plan, as hard as it is. Amen.