In this sermon, the preacher discusses the story of Joshua and the battle of A.I. after the victory at Jericho. Joshua sends spies to scout out A.I., a smaller city, and they report that it would be an easy victory. However, when the Israelites attack, they are defeated and Joshua is devastated. The preacher highlights that the defeat was a result of sin in Israel and emphasizes the importance of avoiding the temptation of worldly desires. The sermon concludes with God assuring Joshua that he will give them victory over A.I.

In this sermon, the speaker discusses the pattern found in the word of God, specifically in the books of Daniel, Hosea, and Joel. The speaker emphasizes the importance of faith and how it is a central message throughout the Bible. The sermon also highlights the expectations God has for His leaders and readers, including lamenting, fasting, and gathering in solemn assembly. The speaker then references a historical event in 1860 where three young men preached in the town square and witnessed a powerful move of God, leading to many people repenting and seeking Christ.

J.C. Philpot preaches about the gates that need to be opened in the journey of faith, starting with the gate of hope, which is anchored in a good hope through grace and leads to a living faith in Jesus. He emphasizes the importance of passing through the gates of faith, hope, and love before entering the presence of the King. The sermon highlights the role of ministers in preparing the way for God's people, casting up a highway of truth, gathering out stumbling blocks, and lifting up the standard of the Gospel for guidance and protection.

Charles E. Cowman preaches about finding joy and triumph in the midst of distress and sadness, emphasizing how God's presence and promises shine brightest in times of trouble. He compares these dark experiences to the night when the believer's lamps of faith are kindled and when God's grace and love are most felt. Through the imagery of crossing the Red Sea and Jordan, he encourages pilgrims to look back on their trials with gratitude, knowing that it was in those difficult moments that they rejoiced in God.

Jonathan Edwards preaches about the process of finding hope and comfort after genuine humiliation and repentance. He explains how God brings His people into the wilderness of trouble and distress to humble them, leading to a deeper reliance on Christ for comfort. Edwards emphasizes the importance of slaying sin, acknowledging one's helplessness, and valuing the restoration of hope and comfort as a work of divine power and grace. He illustrates how trouble and humbling prepare the heart to acknowledge God's mercy and to avoid self-reliance, ensuring that hope and comfort are attributed to God's work and not human efforts.