You Can Run, But You Can’t Hide

You Can Run, But You Can’t Hide

Q: Where did the five enemy kings hide from Joshua?

• a. in a tree
• b. in a cave
• c. in a fort

Have you ever played Sardines, the version of hide-and-seek where one person hides and as each player finds that person, they hide with him or her? The last player to find the group is the one who hides in the next game.

Five enemy kings had their own version of this game. While the battle between the Israelites and the armies of the five enemy kings was in progress, the kings sneaked away and hid in a cave together. They were seen, but no one joined them like in the game Sardines. When Joshua was told where they were, he had his men block the cave entrance with large stones and then guard it so the kings couldn’t escape.

After the battle was over and the Israelites—with God’s help—were the victors, Joshua went to the cave. He had the five kings brought out. Joshua told his commanders, “Come and put your feet on the kings’ necks.” This was a well-known sign of victory at that time.

Then Joshua killed the five kings. He reminded the people, “Be strong and courageous, for the LORD is going to do this to all of your enemies.”

Many times in the Old Testament books of Law and History (Genesis through Esther), people were told not to be discouraged or afraid. Why? Because God was with them. He gave them a reason to be strong and courageous.

For You

Are you feeling discouraged? Maybe your goal seems out of reach. But when you are striving for God’s goals using his strength, you can always be strong and courageous.

Answer: b

During the battle the five kings escaped and hid in a cave at Makkedah.   Joshua 10:16

(The Whole Story: Joshua 10:16-27)