Today's daily devotion

The Battle Belongs to the Lord

The commander of the Lord’s army replied, “Take off your sandals, for the place where you are standing is holy.” And Joshua did so.—JOSHUA 5:15 NIV

Joshua has some big sandals to fill. Moses is gone and now Joshua is in charge of the nation of Israel. Surrounded by enemies, the tiny nation has its first battle for the Promised Land coming up. Even though he’s seen God work in miraculous ways, Joshua must be at least a little afraid.

And then he hears the same message his predecessor, Moses, did. “Take off your sandals. You’re on holy ground.”

Moses heard it coming from a burning bush. Joshua hears it from the commander of the Lord’s army. If he wasn’t scared before, he certainly is now. But ultimately this messenger and his message give comfort to Joshua. He was anointed to be Israel’s leader in the same way Moses had been. The battle isn’t Joshua’s to win or lose. He just needs to be faithful. The battle is God’s, and He’s already won it. Joshua just needs to follow orders.

We can have the same comfort Joshua had. Whatever battle or challenge we may be facing, we don’t face it alone. God is with us every step of the way. He will never leave us or forsake us.

Heavenly Father, thank You for always being beside us. Remind us of Your presence and help us to bring all of our cares and concerns to You. Amen.

Adapted from