Devotional
In our most desperate moments, God often reveals Himself in unexpected ways. For Joshua, standing alone before the walls of Jericho, that revelation came in the form of a warrior with a drawn sword—the commander of the Lord’s army. This encounter teaches us something profound about God’s presence in our lives. When Joshua asked, “Are you for us or for our enemies?” the commander’s response was startling: “Neither.” This divine messenger hadn’t come to take sides in a human conflict but to establish God’s authority over the situation. How often do we approach God with the same misunderstanding? We want Him to be on “our side,” to support our plans and perspectives. But God doesn’t come to join our agenda—He invites us to join His. He doesn’t serve our purposes; we serve His. When Joshua realized who stood before him, his response was immediate and appropriate: he fell facedown in reverence. This posture of surrender is where our victories begin. Before the walls of Jericho fell, Joshua’s pride and self-reliance fell first. Today, whatever battle you’re facing, remember that God’s presence changes everything. But that presence demands our reverence and submission. He is not our assistant or consultant—He is the commander of heaven’s armies.
Bible Verse
“Now when Joshua was near Jericho, he looked up and saw a man standing in front of him with a drawn sword in his hand. Joshua went up to him and asked, ‘Are you for us or for our enemies?’ ‘Neither,’ he replied, ‘but as commander of the army of the LORD I have now come.'” – Joshua 5:13-14a
Reflection Question
In what areas of your life have you been asking God to support your plans rather than surrendering to His authority and direction?
Quote “The question is not, am I for you? The question is, are you for me? Because I didn’t come here on your behalf, and I didn’t come here on behalf of your adversaries, but I am the commander of the armies of the Lord, and I am here on behalf of the King of Kings.”
Prayer
Commander of heaven’s armies, forgive me for the times I’ve tried to enlist You in my plans rather than submitting to Yours. I recognize that You don’t come to serve my purposes but to accomplish Your perfect will. Today, I bow before You in reverence and surrender. I acknowledge Your authority over every area of my life. Lead me according to Your wisdom, not my limited understanding. In Jesus’ name, Amen.