A long time ago, after Moses passed away, a man named Joshua became the leader of the Israelites. God had promised to give His people a special land called Canaan, and it was Joshua’s job to help them get there. The story of Joshua is all about trusting God, being brave, and following His instructions.
1. Crossing the Jordan River The first big challenge for Joshua and the Israelites was crossing the Jordan River. The river was too deep and strong to cross, but God told Joshua not to worry. When the priests carrying the Ark of the Covenant stepped into the water, the river stopped flowing, and the people crossed on dry ground!
Lesson: God can help us do things that seem impossible when we trust Him and follow His lead.
2. The Battle of Jericho After crossing the river, the Israelites came to a city called Jericho. Jericho had big, strong walls around it, and it seemed impossible to conquer. But God gave Joshua a special plan: for six days, the people were to march around the city quietly, and on the seventh day, they were to march around seven times, blowing trumpets and shouting. They did exactly what God said, and on the seventh day, the walls of Jericho came crashing down!
Lesson: When we follow God’s instructions, even if they seem unusual, great things can happen.
3. Joshua’s Leadership Under Joshua’s leadership, the Israelites won many battles and took over much of the Promised Land. Joshua was a strong leader because he trusted God and always asked for His guidance. He reminded the people that it was God who was giving them victory, not their own strength.
Lesson: Like Joshua, we should always trust in God’s power and not rely on our own strength.
4. Dividing the Land Once the Israelites had taken the land, Joshua divided it among the twelve tribes of Israel. Each tribe received its own portion, just as God had promised long ago. Joshua made sure that everyone had a place to call home.
Lesson: God keeps His promises and provides for His people, just like He gave the Israelites their land.
5. Joshua’s Final Words At the end of his life, Joshua gathered the people together and reminded them to always follow God. He told them, “Choose for yourselves this day whom you will serve… But as for me and my house, we will serve the Lord.” Joshua wanted the people to remember all that God had done for them and to stay faithful to Him.
Lesson: We should always choose to follow God, just like Joshua did. He is faithful and always keeps His promises.
Key Lessons from Joshua for Kids:
- Trusting God helps us face challenges, even when things seem difficult or scary.
- When we follow God’s instructions, He can do amazing things through us.
- God is powerful and faithful—He keeps His promises and takes care of His people.
- Like Joshua, we should always choose to serve God and encourage others to do the same.
The Book of Joshua teaches us to be brave, to trust in God’s guidance, and to always remember that God is with us in everything we do!
