to forbear the use of all common means either for the pre- servation of themselves or for the destruction of their enemies? It was faith. And so says an inspired writer; " By faith the walls of Jericho fell down, after they were compassed about seven days'." This is the principle which will carry vis through all difficulties, and enable us to triumph over all our adver- saries. Under the influence of this, our first care in everv situation will be to serve and honour God. In the path of duty, we shall feel no fear about our ultimate success. The means which God has appointed we shall use, and none other. If they appear wholly unsuited to the end, we shall not on that account despond ; but shall expect his gracious interposition in his own time and way, assured that He will make the weakest and most contemptible of beings to confound the honourable, and to overcome the mighty k. Let us then cultivate this prin- ciple, and go forth to our warfare " strong in the Lord and in the power of his might."]
2. The benefit of enlisting under the banners of Christ—
[Christ revealed himself to Joshua under the appearance of a man, and professed himself " the Captain of the Lord's host1." It was he who directed Joshua how to conduct the siege, and " gave the city of Jericho into his hand™." And who but He is " the Captain of our salvation?" Who but He can guide us aright in our spiritual warfare, or give us success in it ? Truly, if we be made " more than conquerors, it must be through Him that loved us11," and gave himself for us. To him will we direct you in every part of your warfare. Do nothing without first asking counsel of him ; attempt nothing, but in his strength : and doubt not but that in all your conflicts you shall have reason to say, " Thanks be unto God who hath always caused us to triumph" hitherto, and will "give us everlasting- victory through our Lord Jesus Christ0."]
I Heb. xi. 30. k 1 Cor. i. 27, 28. } Josh. v. 13— 15. m ver.2.
II Rom.viii.37- ° 2 Cor. h. 14. and 1 Cor. xv. 57.