Joshua 5:13-15

the Commander and His Plan of Campaign

Joshua 5:13; Joshua 6:1

When the heart is perfect with God we may count on His presence and help. It is to the separated and obedient servant that the vision of Christ, as Ally and Captain, is given. Here were three hosts marshaled by Jericho-of the Canaanites, of Israel, and of the heavenly armies, waiting to war against the evil spirits which ruled the darkness of the land, Ephesians 6:12.

The answer to Joshua's question depended on whether Israel was prepared to accept God's plan of campaign, which was very humbling to the flesh. “The Lord is with us, if we are with Him,” Joshua 7:11; 2 Chronicles 15:2. As Jericho was the key to Canaan, and its fall was to be the earnest of complete victory, the program was carefully planned to give God His rightful position. From first to last its capture was the result of the interposition of Him who dwelled in the bush. Therefore, the Ark was borne around the city, as the symbol of His presence, Numbers 10:35.