WORKERS FIGHT FOR SURVIVAL AS RESCUERS PERSEVERE
Nine days after the devastating Nepal-Tibet floods, two men were rescued from a tunnel that had been buried by massive amounts of mud and debris. An air pocket within the underground tunnel system allowed the men to survive while they were trapped. Because of the muddy conditions, it took nearly three days to build the infrastructure to begin meaningful rescue efforts. People feared there was no chance of finding anyone alive after more than a week had passed. Rescue workers persevered through additional rain, flooding, and being temporarily trapped themselves to rescue these men. Above ground, family members admitted they had begun to lose hope. Underground, one of the men recited prayers to remain calm and focused. As rescuers brought the men to safety, the lead rescue coordinator could not contain his emotions, bursting into tears of relief and joy.

GOD’S PEOPLE FIGHT FAITHFULLY AS GOD EMPOWERS VICTORY
Joshua and the Israelites face a threat from Canaanite tribes who form a united opposition. A large army with horses and chariots stands in the way of God’s people’s ability to take possession of the land. God tells Joshua that there is nothing to fear, that the whole army will be destroyed in a day. Joshua is not to keep the horses or chariots that are captured. When God gives this army into their hands, Joshua obediently orders destruction of these weapons. From the Negev desert in the south to the hill country of the north, God is with his people as they are able to take possession of all of this territory, even when local rulers oppose them. God even sets the Anakites fleeing from the area (giant people who had terrified the Israelites). Once each tribe receives an inheritance, the area is at peace.

Questions

• When is a time you had to fight for hope?
• How does Joshua’s faithfulness play into victory?
• Why does God require his people to participate obediently in victory?