Preacher: Anson McMahon

Summary

In this sermon, Anson opens with a humorous recounting of a frozen Thanksgiving half-marathon to illustrate the importance of listening to an expert - even when the advice is painful. This sets the stage for a return to the book of Joshua, where the Israelites face the impenetrable walls of Jericho. The strategy God provides - walking in circles in silence - defies all military logic and human reason.

Through this narrative, we explore why God often calls His people to seasons of "walking and waiting" rather than immediate action. It is a powerful reminder that while God's methods may seem confusing and His timing slow, His plan is designed to strip away our self-reliance and reveal His power.

Key Points

• When God gives me marching orders, they may not make sense to me, but I’m still supposed to march.
• God doesn’t always work as quickly as I like for Him to, but I still need to trust Him.
• God wants me to understand how desperately I need Him.
• The danger of refusing to obey simply because we do not understand the "why."
• Faith as quiet perseverance in impossible circumstances.

Reflect & Discuss

1. Is there a specific area in your life where you feel God has given you "marching orders" that don't make sense? What holds you back from obeying?
2. How do you typically react during seasons of waiting - do you tend to complain, or do you view it as a time of spiritual preparation?
3. In what ways might your current struggles be an invitation to stop relying on your own strength and acknowledge your desperation for God?

Main Passage

• Joshua 6

Supporting Passages

• Matthew 5:43-44
• James 1:2-4
• 2 Corinthians 9:6-8
• Psalm 42:1-2
• Psalm 68:5