In Joshua 10 we read that King Adonizedek of Jerusalem becomes extremely frightened when he hears that Joshua and the Israelites have captured the city of Ai and killed its king just as they did at Jericho. What disturbs him even more is that the Gibeonites have signed a peace treaty with the Israelites. Gibeon was a large town and all the men were strong warriors.
Afraid that his city will also be taken and he, too, will be killed, Adonizedek sends a message to four other Amorite kings. He outlines the Israelites' latest conquests and begs them to help him attack Gibeon.
The five kings come together and make war against Gibeon. Overwhelmed, the Gibeonites send a message to Joshua asking them for assistance. Joshua responds. After the Lord promises victory, Joshua and his army march all night from Gilgal to Gibeon. They make a surprise attack on the Amorites, who panic and flee. The Israelites save the day.
As I read this story, this verse stood:
"Joshua marched all night from Gilgal to Gibeon..." (Joshua 10:9, The Promise Translation).
The phrase "marched all night" seemed to leap from the page. Joshua and his crew were willing to give up much needed rest. Not only that, they traveled on foot for hours. They went the distance, doing what it took to reach their destination in order to help their friends. What are we willing to do to help those in need around us?? Are we willing to invest time in prayer until we see a breakthrough?? Are we available to counsel someone again and again until they overcome?
Let's ask ourselves these important questions as we remember Joshua and the Israelites' deed. The love of God demands it of us. Jesus called us the Light of the World. Let's ask the Lord to help us become beacons of hope.
Keywords: happiness, love of God, obedience, success