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A while ago I began reading the Book of Joshua in a mom’s Bible study group, and today it’s still one of my favorite books of the Bible. I’ll admit, I knew many verses in Joshua, but I had never sat down and read it in its entirety. It’s a tough one–full of battles and death, and Joshua is continuously called to have a whole lot of faith in God.

When Joshua was named the successor to Moses, he led the Israelites into the Promised Land to take possession, but not without a fight. Time after time Joshua is called into battle by the Lord. Even when it seemed impossible, God was with him and directed his steps, and when he obeyed there was an optimal outcome.

“No man shall be able to stand against you all the days of your life. Just as I was with Moses, so I will be with you. I will not leave you or forsake you.”
Joshua 1:5 (NIV)

He fights for us.

God has and will call us into our own battles. Rest assured, the Lord fights alongside us and does the heavy lifting.

Losing my husband Michael to depression and suicide when our son was just one-year-old was the most horrific battle I’ve faced. It was a battle I was sure would be lost. It is easy to believe the lie that the battle is too painful to fight, but the Lord has armed us with strength for every trial. He was there and continues to be with me every step of this journey. His strength, peace, mercy, and faithfulness are what pulled me from the depths of despair to a life, once again, filled with joy.

Though the battles that we face may seem treacherous and hopeless, they are often the qualifying lap that is sanctifying us in the “good race”. Widowhood is a battle that we have been called on. (I know God doesn’t plan terrible things, but He can allow them if it ultimately brings glory and good, though we may never, ever, understand!) The Good News: We know how this story plays out! God sent Jesus to earth for you and me, and the battle is already won, sisters! Death has been defeated.

“In this world you will have trouble, but take heart, I have overcome the world.”
John 16:33 (NIV)

He knows the outcome.

In Joshua, chapter 11, Joshua is planning an attack against the Northern Kings. God tells him before ever stepping foot on the battleground how it will end.

“The Lord said to Joshua, ‘Do not be afraid of them, because by this time tomorrow I will hand all of them over to Israel, slain …’”
Joshua 11:6 (NIV)

Though we may not know the details, the Lord knows the outcome of our battles, too. However, here’s the thing: Joshua knew that God would claim victory, but he still had to show up. We have to show up, too. We have to put our feet on the floor each morning, asking God, “What now?” There is a reason we are still on this earth, and He has plans for us. We have to do the work God has called us to be a part of …

“’For I know the plans I have for you,’ declares the Lord, ‘plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.’”
Jeremiah 29:11 (NIV)

Just as Joshua realized, I have learned that the more I surrender my struggles to the Lord and obey His calling, the more I experience peace (and ultimate victory) in the midst of every battle.

He is with us. He is for us. He will fight for us.

Lord, I pray for peace and strength for each of my sisters fighting their own battles. You know what they need. Like Joshua, help us to be faithful to you, obey your Word, and follow your will. We know you will be victorious. Continue to lead us and guide us through it all. Amen.