1. Do not be fainthearted (1-9)

When the Israelites crossed the border, they had a whole nation to win and many peoples to drive from the land. This would be a daunting task for anyone! But Moses told God's people to not be fainthearted or afraid. They were not to give in to panic in any way. If they were afraid, they should stay home. If they had other things on their mind, they should stay home. How could they afford to do this before a battle against a large and powerful army? It was because the LORD was going with them. He would go in front of them and would fight for them against their enemies. We face many battles every day. We should know that the LORD is with us, fighting for us.

2. Limits on warfare (10-20)

This passage should be understood in the context of the Israelites being used as instruments of God's judgment on the Canaanite nations. When the Israelites laid siege to a city, they were to be merciful if the inhabitants humbled themselves and surrendered. But they were to be merciless on those who lived near them, for they would become snares to them.


Application: Lord, help me to know your presence when I am faced with the battles of this life.
One Word: The LORD goes with us