“So they went out, they and all their armies with them, as many people as the sand that is on the seashore in multitude, with very many horses and chariots. And when all these kings had met together, they came and camped together at the waters of Merom to fight against Israel.” (vv.4-5)
After Jabin king of Hazor heard of Israel’s total conquest of the southern kings, the northern kings came together to defeat Israel. The huge army assembled together reflects an attitude that they believe they must stop Israel now or never. All this was prompted by what the northern kings heard regarding Israel’s success and victory. Walking in victory means that we become targets – when we are awakened, so is the devil.
Israel was about to face challenges they had never faced before. First, the size of the enemy army: as many people as the sand that is on the seashore in multitude. Second, the technological superiority of the Canaanites: with very many horses and chariots (vv.4-5). Here a massive army gathered in the valley of Megiddo to come against Joshua. Because this attack was new, and more severe than previous challenges, Joshua needed a fresh confirmation of God’s promise for his life. And the LORD was faithful to bring it, "Tomorrow about this time I will deliver all of them slain before Israel" (v.6).
The historian Josephus tells us this coalition numbered 300,000 infantrymen, 10,000 cavalrymen, and 20,00 chariots - being like tanks in those days, a formidable arm to say the least. Israel again is outnumbered and seemingly no match for its enemy. Sound familiar? This event pictures the prophecies of Revelation, when a massive army will one day come against Jesus Christ and His reign here on earth in the “Battle of Armageddon” (Rev.16:16). And, like the five kings of the north (with their overwhelming numbers) who came against Joshua and were utterly destroyed (v.18), so too shall this future army who comes against Jesus be totally destroyed (Rev.19:19-21).
We too can have victory against overwhelming odds in our lives as well. Remember, He who is in us is greater that he who is in this world. God Bless you all.
The Truth: “But thanks be to God, who gives us the victory through our Lord Jesus Christ.” (1 Corinthians 15:57)
