God often calls us to pause and prepare our hearts before leading us into new territory, as demonstrated in Joshua 5. Before conquering the Promised Land, the Israelites underwent three preparatory acts: renewal of circumcision, celebration of Passover, and transition to eating the land's produce. These acts reestablished their identity as God's covenant people and removed the reproach of Egypt. The chapter concludes with Joshua learning that God doesn't take sides in human conflicts - rather than God being with us, we are called to be with God. This teaches us to join God's mission instead of asking Him to bless ours.