Article April 14, 1951 Issue

"SHOUT; FOR THE LORD HATH GIVEN YOU THE CITY"

ELEANOR DAISY LEES

In the sixth chapter of the book of Joshua there is an account of the taking of the city of Jericho. This strongly walled city was the first to fall before the armies of Israel after they had crossed the river Jordan, which had rolled back as the feet of the priests bearing the ark of the Lord touched the edge of the waters.

Now safely over, they stood on the soil of the land promised to their forefathers Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob; but this promised land, so long desired, had to be taken from its heathen inhabitants. These were men strong in evil, worshipers of fierce and cruel gods named Baal and Moloch. Joshua, the leader of the armies of Israel, wisely waited for God's guidance in this task. His humility was rewarded by the vision of a man holding a drawn sword in his hand, who proclaimed himself "captain of the host of the Lord," and before whom Joshua reverently bowed.

How released and relieved Joshua must have felt! He had only to be obedient, and the armies of Israel would be safe and victorious under the Lord's leadership. Accordingly, as Joshua listened for divine direction, the plan of the siege of Jericho was unfolded to him. This strong walled city, awaiting attack, was not to be assaulted; its formidable walls were not to be scaled. Armed men were to march around the city once a day for six days in silence, carrying in their midst the ark of the covenant. White-robed priests carrying trumpets of rams' horns were to march in front of the ark, sounding triumphant music. On the seventh day the city was to be encircled seven times. After this would come the shout of victors from each man of the armies of Israel.

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"PREPARE HIM ROOM"
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