Welcome to the “Joshua and Judges: A Ju-te Devotional Study for Christian Martial Arts Warriors,” a transformative 10-week series beginning today on Ju-te.org. As Christian Warriors, we blend the strength of martial arts with the unshakeable foundation of our faith. This daily devotional journey compares the books of Joshua and Judges, uncovering lessons of courage, leadership, and resilience that mirror the discipline of our training.
Joshua opens with a call to action, God commissions Joshua to lead Israel into the Promised Land, urging him to “be strong and courageous” (Joshua 1:9). It’s a battle cry for warriors, echoing the focus we bring to every punch or block. Judges, however, reveals a different season, cycles of victory and failure as Israel navigates life after Joshua, seeking God’s guidance amid chaos. Together, these books teach us how to stand firm in faith and rise after a fall, much like mastering a new technique after a stumble in the dojo.
Over the next 70 days, we’ll explore daily reflections tying these Scriptures to our lives as Christian Martial Arts Warriors. Each post will compare a passage from Joshua with one from Judges, offering a martial arts connection, whether it’s the precision of a form or the teamwork of sparring, and a prayer or question to deepen your walk. From Joshua’s bold conquests to Judges’ lessons in repentance, we’ll build a warrior’s spirit rooted in Christ.
This series is more than reading, it’s a call to action. Join us daily at 6:00 AM PDT, subscribe for email updates, or engage on the Ju-te.org forum with #JuTeDevotional. Share your insights, pray with us, and let’s grow together. Whether you’re a youth learning respect, a senior finding strength, or a parent seeking wisdom, this study equips you for the good fight of faith (1 Timothy 6:12).
Tomorrow, we dive into the foundations with Joshua 1:1-9 and Judges 1:1-2. Prepare your heart and body, grab your Bible, tie your belt, and step into this journey. Let’s become warriors who not only train but transform, honoring God with every move.
Day 1: The Call to Lead (Joshua 1:1-9 vs. Judges 1:1-2)
Today, we begin our 10-week devotional journey as Christian Martial Arts Warriors, diving into Joshua and Judges. In Joshua 1:1-9, God calls Joshua to lead Israel after Moses’ death, promising, “Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged, for the Lord your God will be with you wherever you go” (v. 9). This divine commission sets a warrior’s tone, clear, bold, and rooted in faith. Contrast this with Judges 1:1-2, where, after Joshua’s era, the Israelites ask, “Who of us is to go up first to fight against the Canaanites?” God answers, choosing Judah. Here, the transition feels uncertain, a new chapter seeking direction.
Joshua’s call is a battle plan, much like the stance we take before a martial arts match, grounded, ready, and trusting our training. Judges’ inquiry reflects the moment we pause to seek guidance mid-fight, ensuring our next move aligns with God’s will. As Christian Warriors, we’re called to both boldness and humility, stepping forward with courage while listening to our Leader. This duality strengthens us, much like balancing offense and defense in a sparring session.
The promise of God’s presence in Joshua 1:9 is our shield, a reminder that no technique or opponent can outmatch divine support. In Judges, the reliance on God’s choice of Judah teaches us to trust His strategy over our own. Tie your belt today with this truth in mind, every step in training or life is stronger with faith.
Reflection: How can you seek God’s strength today as you step into a challenge, whether in the dojo or daily life? Take a moment to pray for courage.