In Joshua 20–21, God’s justice and care are evident. Joshua 20 introduces "cities of refuge" for those accused of accidental killings, providing protection from vengeance and showcasing God’s wisdom in balancing justice and mercy. Chapter 21 focuses on assigning 48 cities to the Levites, the priestly tribe without a land inheritance, ensuring equitable land distribution among Israel. These chapters reveal God’s fairness in dividing land, preserving order, and providing for those who serve Him faithfully. The themes of justice, mercy, and provision highlight how God’s wisdom brings structure to spiritual and civil life.

Joshua 13–19 records how the land of Canaan, promised by God to Abraham and his descendants, was divided among the 12 tribes through the drawing of lots, demonstrating God’s involvement in fulfilling his promises. While many areas were conquered, some Canaanites remained, leading to lasting consequences for Israel. Caleb’s faith stands out as he inherits Hebron due to his trust in God. These chapters emphasize the importance of obedience, trusting God’s guidance, and fully following his plans to experience his promises. The theme, “Drawing the Map,” reminds us that God’s promises are fulfilled when his people actively trust and remove obstacles to their mission.

Joshua 11–12 highlights Israel’s mission to conquer Canaan under God’s guidance. Joshua led the Israelites to defeat the Northern kingdoms, including giants like the Anakim, trusting in God’s promise of victory. With unwavering faith, they saw God harden their enemies’ hearts, ensuring their defeat and giving Israel strength to overcome all odds. The story shows that God’s promises are trustworthy and victory is certain when his people fully rely on him, even if the journey takes time.

In Joshua 10, we learn about God’s miraculous intervention on behalf of Israel in a decisive battle where the sun and moon stood still, hailstones fell from the sky and the enemies of Israel were defeated. This chapter shows us how God works through both natural and supernatural events to fulfill his promises and support his people. Despite being drawn into a war that initially wasn’t their own, Joshua and his army courageously trusted God’s plan. Through their obedience and reliance on God, they witnessed his might and faithfulness as he fought for them and led them to victory in Canaan. The theme of this chapter reminds us that God is always in control, even when we face challenging and unprecedented circumstances.

The theme of Joshua 8-9 is Victory and Deceit. In chapter 8, Israel defeats the city of Ai with an ambush, following God’s instructions, and renews the covenant at Mount Ebal by building an altar and reading God’s Law. This victory came after Achan’s sin was addressed, showing that obedience leads to blessings. In chapter 9, the Gibeonites deceive Joshua into making a peace treaty by pretending to be travelers from afar. Joshua fails to consult God and is tricked, leading to the Gibeonites being cursed and made Israel’s servants. These chapters highlight the importance of seeking God’s guidance before acting and staying vigilant against deception.

The theme of Joshua 7 is “Hide and Seek.” Achan disobeyed God by stealing devoted items after Israel’s victory at Jericho. He hid a cloak, silver and gold in his tent, but God saw his sin, and the consequences were severe. Israel suffered defeat at Ai, and 36 men lost their lives. When Joshua prayed, God revealed the sin, and Achan’s guilt was exposed. His confession, made too late, resulted in his punishment as he and his family were stoned, and the stolen goods were destroyed. This chapter highlights the gravity of sin and the harm it causes to others, urging us to confess and turn from sin to experience true forgiveness.

The theme of Joshua 5-6 is “The Walls Came Tumbling Down,” describing Israel’s miraculous victory at Jericho, their first major conquest in Canaan. Before the battle, God commanded the younger males to be circumcised, fulfilling their covenant with Abraham. The Israelites celebrated Passover and began eating the land’s produce instead of manna. Joshua encountered the commander of the Lord’s army, believed to be a manifestation of Jesus. God provided an unusual strategy: March around Jericho’s walls for six days, then seven times on the seventh day, blow trumpets and shout. The walls fell solely by God’s power, while Rahab and her family were spared due to her faith. These events highlight the importance of obedience and trust in God’s supernatural power for victory.

The theme of Joshua 3-4 is “Crossing the Jordan.” After 40 years of wandering, the Israelites prepare to enter the Promised Land but must first cross the Jordan River during its flood stage. Guided by God, the priests carry the Ark of the Covenant into the river, and the waters miraculously halt, allowing the Israelites to cross on dry ground. Joshua instructs 12 men to take stones from the riverbed to create a memorial at Gilgal, reminding future generations of God’s power and faithfulness. This event demonstrates that trusting God and obeying him leads to overcoming seemingly impossible obstacles and entering into his promises.

The theme of Joshua 2 is about an unlikely ally. Preparing to conquer Jericho, Joshua sends two spies who hide in the home of Rahab, a woman with a bad reputation who risks her life to protect them. Rahab’s faith in God is remarkable, as she trusts in his power after hearing of his miracles, including parting the Red Sea and defeating enemy kings. Rahab secures a promise to save her family during the destruction by hanging a scarlet cord in her window. The spies return to Joshua with encouraging news about Jericho’s fear. Rahab’s story shows that anyone can trust in God and find redemption, regardless of their past.

The theme of Joshua 1 is “Strong and Courageous.” After Moses’ death, Joshua takes leadership, tasked with leading the Israelites into the Promised Land. God reassures Joshua to be strong and courageous and to obey and meditate on the Law, making God’s Word central to his leadership and success. Joshua prepares the tribes, including those living east of the Jordan, for the crossing while affirming unity. The chapter highlights faith, obedience and the courage needed to trust God’s promises and act boldly for his purposes.