Keys to Victory

In his quest to conquer the world, Alexander the Great led his army across the Tigris and Euphrates Rivers in September, 331 BC. There he came face-to-face with the mighty Persian army. Alexander quickly realized that he was vastly outnumbered. The Persians had several hundred thousand men, while he had only about 45,000. On September 30, the day before the battle, he surveyed the landscape and developed a plan.

In her account, Agnes Savill describes how Alexander instructed his soldiers to advance into battle “in complete silence, so that when the trumpets sounded, and the signal was given, their battle cry would convey even more terror than usual.” Alexander’s strategy worked to perfection. The Persians were confused and he won one of the most decisive battles in history.

The march of silence was not a new strategy. It had been employed with great success by Joshua at the battle of Jericho. One key to his victory was following the strategy they had been given by God. Joshua commanded that Israel not let their voice be heard “until the day I tell you.”

They marched silently for six days, marching silently six more times on the seventh day. Finally, on the seventh march, Joshua gave the word: “Shout! For the Lord has given you the city.” The result was total victory.

In your life, remember the importance of having the right strategy and plan. Of acting at the right time. This is why we need to seek God and trust that He can provide the wisdom we need, and show us what to do, and when to do it.

Today, commit your battles to Him. Let Him guide you to victory.