SUMMARY: Renewal
OVERVIEW: Israel defeats and plunders Ai.
BIG IDEA: One defeat doesn’t prevent future victory.
KEY VERSE: Joshua 8:1 (God to Joshua)
Then the Lord said to Joshua, “Do not be afraid or discouraged. Take all your fighting men and attack Ai, for I have given you the king of Ai, his people, his town, and his land.”
IF GOD WROTE YOU A LETTER
Don’t hang your head in defeat. You will fail, you will be disappointed, and you will be discouraged. But you don’t have to live in that place. Don’t be afraid to try again. You will have another opportunity. I’m still with you, so take my hand and get up. And let that be your reminder to do the same for others. Help those who have fallen or stumbled to stand and encourage them to trust me.
I hope you noticed that not only did I give Ai to Israel, but I also allowed them to keep all plunder. If only Achan had waited! Israel’s victory was a chance for a fresh start and a way to renew their commitment with me. I want the same for us. I am here, extending my hand to you. I want to be in a relationship with you and see you become the person I know you can be. And I’m eager to equip you to encourage others to do the same.
NEXT STEP
Don’t be overcome by defeat. Thank God for whatever challenge he has allowed you to persevere, and look ahead to what God has next in store for you. Remind God you trust him and that you are willing to take any necessary next steps.
LYRIC VIDEO