Joshua 11: Fight With Courage

Joshua 11 shows God’s triumph over mighty enemies, His judgment on hardened hearts, and His promise of rest fulfilled in Christ’s victory.

Introduction

Joshua 11 records the northern kings of Canaan joining forces against Israel in an overwhelming alliance. Jabin, king of Hazor, led armies described as numerous “like the sand that is on the seashore” with many horses and chariots (Joshua 11:4). Yet God told Joshua not to be afraid, for He would deliver them into Israel’s hand (Joshua 11:6). Joshua struck suddenly, crippled the horses, and burned the chariots as the Lord commanded (Joshua 11:7–9). Israel destroyed Hazor, the head of these kingdoms, because it had been the leader of their rebellion (Joshua 11:10). The chapter concludes by showing that Joshua left nothing undone of what the Lord commanded Moses, until the land had rest from war (Joshua 11:15, 23). This chapter bridges the gap between Israel’s long battles and the fulfillment of God’s promise of rest. It shows you that no enemy, however powerful, can withstand the judgment of God or overturn His promises to His people.

Proposition

You should fight with courage.

Because God Overrules Mighty Enemies (1–9)

The northern kings formed a coalition of unprecedented strength. They had horses and chariots, the most advanced military technology of their time. Yet God told Joshua, “Do not be afraid” (Joshua 11:6). The word “afraid” (yareʾ) means to tremble or dread. God assured Joshua He had already determined the outcome. This teaches the doctrine that God’s sovereignty extends over every alliance and power raised against His people. Historically, the Canaanites trusted in their chariots as invincible weapons. But God showed that no human advancement can overthrow His purpose. For you, the correction is clear: don’t measure challenges by human strength. Trust the God who rules over every enemy. The instruction is that you should not fear opposition when you obey God, because He has already secured the victory in Christ.

Because God Judges Rebellious Leaders (10–15)

Joshua destroyed Hazor, the head of the northern kingdoms, because it led the rebellion (Joshua 11:10). This act carried a doctrinal lesson: God holds leaders accountable who stir nations into rebellion against Him. The word “head” (roʾsh) points to authority and prominence. Historically, Hazor was the largest and most influential Canaanite city. Its destruction demonstrated that God topples the proud who lead others astray. For you, the reproof is to beware of following leaders who set themselves against God. The instruction is to submit to Christ, the true Head of His people, who leads not into rebellion but into life. Just as Joshua left nothing undone of God’s commands, Jesus left nothing undone in His work of redemption.

Because God Hardens Proud Hearts (16–20)

The text explains that “it was of the Lord to harden their hearts, that they should come against Israel in battle” (Joshua 11:20). The word “harden” (chazaq) means to strengthen or make obstinate. This teaches the doctrine that persistent rebellion results in God giving people over to judgment. Historically, the Canaanites had centuries to repent, but instead they hardened their hearts. For you, the warning is solemn: those who reject God’s mercy eventually face His wrath without remedy. The instruction is to change your mind now and trust in Christ while mercy is still extended. God shows you in this passage that judgment is not arbitrary but the result of hardened unbelief.

Because God Removes Fearsome Giants (21–23)

Joshua cut off the Anakim, the giants who had terrified Israel in Numbers 13. The word “rest” (shaqat) in Joshua 11:23 means to be quiet or undisturbed. This teaches that God not only defeats visible enemies but also removes the obstacles that once paralyzed His people with fear. Historically, the Anakim symbolized insurmountable threats. Their defeat demonstrated God’s faithfulness to His promise and brought Israel rest. For you, the instruction is that Christ, the greater Joshua, has conquered the greatest enemies—sin, death, and Satan. You can rest in Him, knowing the giants that once condemned you are defeated by His cross and resurrection.

Invitation

Joshua 11 warns you that those who harden their hearts against God abide under His wrath, just as the Canaanites were slated for destruction. John testifies that “whoever does not believe is condemned already” and “the wrath of God remains on him” (John 3:18, 36). Without Christ, you stand in the same danger. No power, wealth, or alliance can shield you from the coming judgment. Your only hope is to flee to Christ. He bore the wrath of God on the cross, dying as a substitute for your sins. His death satisfied God’s justice, and His resurrection proved that God accepted His sacrifice. He left nothing undone in providing salvation. You must change your mind about sin, stop trusting in yourself, and call on the name of the Lord Jesus. He alone saves from wrath and gives eternal rest. Do not remain under condemnation. Trust Christ today.

For you who belong to Christ, Joshua 11 calls you to trust God’s victory in your battles. The giants of fear, sin, and opposition cannot stand against the Lord who has already triumphed. Don’t measure your circumstances by the world’s standards of strength, but by God’s promises in Christ. Walk forward in faith, confident that God has secured the rest He promised. Use your life to point others to the same Savior who brought you peace.