We can find freedom in the understanding that God has ultimate power. We can live in freedom by trusting God's wisdom above man's. We can experience freedom in knowing that God is present with us.

In this passage, Paul declares that Jesus desires his followers to be truly free. However, he cautions, we can fall prey to the notion that there's a checklist of things we must fulfill in order to make ourselves acceptable to God. Paul urges us to recognize that this "works"-based mindset actually robs us of the freedom God intends for us. He urges us to stand firm in the truth that God's grace is enough. We can't earn it or add to it.

There are so many competing desires in our hearts, so often we try to have the best of both worlds, to experience the blessings of God and the “good things” that this world offers. The reality, however, that it is impossible to serve God and live for ourselves at the same time. In the memorable ending to the book of Joshua, we are invited to get off the fence and make a choice.

We all face battles in life—some big, some small. In the well-known story of the battle of Jericho, we find seven practical lessons for facing our battles today with fresh encouragement, wisdom, strength and hope.