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THE SECOND ATTEMPT TO CAPTURE AI
THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 2
Joshua 8:10-29

Psalm 6

 

“Let all mine enemies

be ashamed and sore vexed…”

 

THE SECOND ATTEMPT TO CAPTURE AI
 
Joshua laid down a strategy to capture Ai to ensure success. This was the second attempt to capture it, and he was sure of victory. As the leader, he took command and made a careful plan.
 
He chose thirty thousand men and sent them behind the city. This was to be the ambush team. Joshua remained with the rest of the people and prepared to command the attack team. The team that Joshua led would go directly against the city. The intention of gaining victory was foremost in Joshua’s plan. This was the approach that Israel had used in the first attempt, but they were defeated because God was not in that battle, and thirty-six of them were killed. This made Joshua go back to the drawing board, and it was revealed that sanctity was lacking in Israel.
 
When he had put all things right, God gave him the assurance and wisdom in this second approach. This time, he had the ambush team behind the city on the western side. When the assault team attacked, the men of Ai would respond by coming out and chasing them as they had done earlier. They would be more emboldened this time because they had defeated Israel and killed a number of them. However, in this second attempt, Joshua had the intention to draw the men of Ai out of the city. The army of Israel was commanded to flee when the men of Ai would chase them. The plan was that all would come out of the city and leave the gates open. Thus, the city would be without protection.
 
When they had all come out, the ambush team would then descend on the city and set it on fire. They would seize the city and take the spoils for themselves. God had commanded them and they followed His counsel (Josh 8:7-9). They were to follow the plan and capture the city.
 
The account affirms the doctrine of the sovereignty of God and human responsibility. Joshua was assured of victory, but he had to work hard.
 
THOUGHT: I am saved by grace, but I must live a holy life.

PRAYER: Father, help me to fulfil my spiritual duties.

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