Psalm 135:10-11

Psalm 135:10-11

The march north

In these two verses, the author of this Psalm summarises the events described in Exodus 7-14 and later in Numbers 21:21-35. Moses was not allowed to enter Canaan, he had to pass that gilded baton to Joshua his successor, but he was allowed to march north along the eastern side of the River Jordan. The verses in our Psalm, effectively describe the conquest of the land that we now call Jordan. Not only were there obstinate kings like Sihon and Og in the way, but these were territories that were still home to the descendants of the Nephilim, the giants of ancient times. In truth, Moses was looking for a peaceful passage along the boundary of Canaan, but the obstinate Amorites, led by Sihon, stood in the way and were put to the sword, as was King Og, who reigned further north. 

These were brutal times, many died and the forces against Israel were far greater than their own travelling army. The slaughter of these violent forces was repeated later when Joshua entered Canaan and bit by bit the pagan tribes were overcome and their land occupied by the all-conquering Israelites. God was insistent, if the people wanted to inhabit this area and live in peace, they must destroy their enemies and cleanse the land of all idolatry and pagan influences. 

We have seen the same scenario repeated time after time since the State of Israel was declared in1948 and innumerable attempts have been made to eradicate the Jews. The same enemies have warred against them, this time in the name of Allah and with forces representing the surrounding Islamic world. This earthly battle never seems to have an end; in truth it will not come to a conclusion until Messiah Himself reigns over our world and there will at last be a time of peace. The entire conflict, however, has always been between the forces of evil and those of our God. The Satan continues to thwart God’s purposes on earth, which is why we who believe need to be on the alert, for we too are engaged in this war, not with guns or swords but with the spiritual armour of God. 

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