From Mistakes to Miracles: Joshua Transformed

Joshua transformed as a leader by seeking God after failure, showing us how mistakes can become stepping stones to greater faith.

“Joshua struck the whole land, the hill country and the Negeb and the lowland and the slopes, and all their kings.”—Joshua 10:40

Joshua had the unenviable task of replacing Moses. He knew others would be watching him, wondering if he could measure up. He began his reign with remarkable success, leading the Israelites over the Jordan River and into victory over Jericho. It was clear that “the LORD was with Joshua, and his fame was in all the land” (Joshua 6:27).

But when he allowed Israel to be overconfident, and Ai defeated them, Joshua was devastated. Yet when he sought God, he learned how to reverse the impact of this defeat.

Then Joshua made another serious mistake, failing to discern that the Gibeonites were deceiving him into forming a covenant relationship. Joshua never prayed or sought God about the matter.

These mistakes could have marked the end of Joshua’s effectiveness as a leader. Instead, he emerged with greater confidence and boldness, no longer taking God for granted.

As we go through life, we can expect to face problems and make mistakes. When this happens, we need to be like Joshua, asking God for the wisdom and direction we need.

Don’t give up or panic. Instead, seek God’s face. Be honest with Him. As you humble yourself, let Him transform you and give you new confidence. Instead of allowing mistakes and problems to make you weaker, allow God to work through them to make you stronger.

Reflection Question: How can you let God use your mistakes to build stronger faith?