When the trumpets sounded, the army shouted, and at the sound of the trumpet, when the men gave a loud shout, the wall collapsed; so everyone charged straight in, and they took the city.
Joshua 6:20

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READ: Joshua 5:13–6:27

Sometimes, trying to overcome significant challenges in life can feel like hitting a brick wall. Will I ever get a job in my chosen field? Will I ever get accepted to my dream college? Will I ever find a life partner, have a family of my own, or meet my parents’ approval? No matter how hard we try, we can’t break through that wall. Other times, after prayerful pursuit of a God-given goal, the wall crumbles before us and we experience success.

Joshua and the Israelites experienced a literal crumbling wall at Jericho after following God’s unusual marching orders. Traditional military strategy for capturing a city would be to lay siege until they surrender. Jericho wasn’t a large city—only about nine acres in size—but it was well-fortified with double walls of 13-foot-thick mudbrick. A natural spring (Elisha’s Spring in Old Town Jericho) supplied ample fresh water, and the fall harvest had just been gathered, so Jericho could have lasted several years under siege.

God’s orders were for 40,000 of Israel’s 600,000 fighting men to march around the city silently, once a day for six days, behind seven priests blowing horns and carrying the ark of the covenant. On the seventh day, they were to march around the city seven times; then the priests would blow long blasts on their horns and the men would shout (6:2–5). What?! Not exactly the strategy they’d expected! But they followed God’s plan, and on the seventh day, after the priests sounded their horns and the men shouted, Jericho’s walls crumbled. Joshua’s army broke through and conquered the city. The impenetrable fortress had been no match for God. The same can be said for any wall we face in our lives. When we follow God’s strategy, He helps us break through.

Side note: Amid the excitement of leading his first major battle, Joshua didn’t forget the promise made to Rahab, the young woman who risked her life by hiding the two spies sent to scope out Jericho. Joshua sent those same two spies to rescue her. They spotted their pre-arranged sign (a scarlet cord hanging from Rahab’s window) and then escorted her and her family to safety. For Joshua, following God’s plan included keeping his promises.

A STORY OF THEN & NOW

A Break-Through Life | Maria S. | Willow Huntley

Two years ago, my life fell apart. At 59, I experienced infidelity, divorce, and abandonment. I lost my home, my small business, my stability, even my dog—and found myself couch surfing with my daughter. I was heartbroken, alone, and ashamed.

But God broke through. I walked into Willow Creek for the first time, feeling devastated, not knowing what to expect. I went forward for prayer, and from then on, I was never alone. People from Willow surrounded me—helping me move, praying for me, and even sitting with me in court. They became the hands and feet of Jesus for us. I clung to God’s Word like a lifeline. I remember imagining myself holding on to the hem of His garment, begging, “Lord, pull me out of this pit.” And He did. In the midst of my pain, God gave me glimpses of His love: I was unexpectedly nominated—and won—Educator of the Year for McHenry County. After my betrayal and divorce, I felt so unworthy; yet, standing on that stage, I looked up and whispered, “Thank you, Lord.” It was His way of saying, “You are seen. You are worthy.”

God broke through. He has helped me rebuild my life. I now have a home for my daughter and me, and I mentor women walking through heartbreak and hopelessness. I remind them, “You are not alone. You will make it! God can break through whatever circumstances you face.” I didn’t just survive—I’m thriving. God broke through and transformed my entire life.

DID YOU KNOW?

Modern archeological excavations of the ancient city of Jericho largely support the biblical account of the fall of this mighty city. Piles of crumbled brick from the walls appear just as described in Joshua’s narrative, and large vats of harvested grain were found, preserved, among the ruins.

A PRAYER

God, it’s easy to forget that no wall is unbreakable. Help me follow Your lead in pursuing the life I sense You have for me, as You break through barriers in Your way and Your time. Amen.

FOR REFLECTION

Have you ever received directions from God that made no earthly sense? Did you follow them? What was the outcome?

If you receive some unorthodox instructions you sense might be from God, who are the discerning people you turn to for wise counsel or next steps?