Joshua 8:1

Joshua and the Israelites had just been defeated in battle by a small city named Ai – a city that only had 12,000 residents. The Israelites lost the battle because of self-confidence and arrogance. They launched the battle without seeking the will of God. This wasn’t the only reason for defeat. There was also sin in the camp of soldiers. Achan had taken things from Jericho and had hidden them.

Israel repented of their sin. Now God tells them to go back to Ai and take it by ambush.

After messing up, the devil likes to whisper in our ear, “You messed up big time, and God can never use you again.” But God specifically reminded Joshua of His promise. To get back on track, we need to learn not to repeat the same mistakes.