These verses describe an encounter between Joshua and an angelic being who appeared to him before the battle of Jericho. The being was the commander of the army of the Lord, and he came to deliver a message to Joshua.
When Joshua asked him if he was for the Israelites or their enemies, the being replied that he was not for either side, but he was the commander of the Lord's army. This response showed that the outcome of the battle was not up to Joshua or the Israelites, but it was in the hands of the Lord.
These verses emphasize the importance of recognizing and submitting to the sovereignty of God in all things. They show that even in military battles, it is not the strength or strategies of human beings that determine the outcome, but it is the hand of God that brings victory.
They are a reminder of the power and sovereignty of God in all aspects of life, including warfare, politics, and personal struggles. They encourage us to trust in the Lord and to seek his guidance in all things, rather than relying on our own strength and abilities.
Joshua 5:13-14. When Joshua was by Jericho, he lifted up his eyes and looked, and behold, a man stood in front of him with his sword drawn in his hand. Joshua went to him and said to him, “Are you for us, or for our enemies?” He said, “No; but I have come now as commander of Yahweh’s army.” Joshua fell on his face to the earth, and worshiped, and asked him, “What does my lord say to his servant?”