The concept of "The First Day of Battle" in the Bible often signifies the commencement of a significant conflict or divine intervention in the affairs of nations and individuals. Throughout the Scriptures, the first day of battle is marked by God's sovereign hand guiding the outcomes, often in miraculous ways, to fulfill His divine purposes.

Biblical Instances:

1. The Battle of Jericho (Joshua 6): One of the most iconic first days of battle in the Bible is the Battle of Jericho. Under Joshua's leadership, the Israelites were commanded by God to march around the city once a day for six days, with seven priests carrying trumpets of rams' horns before the Ark of the Covenant. On the seventh day, they were to march around the city seven times. On this first day of battle, the Israelites obeyed God's unusual strategy, demonstrating their faith and reliance on divine intervention. The walls of Jericho fell, and the city was taken as God had promised. This event underscores the theme of obedience and faith in God's power to deliver victory. As recorded in Joshua 6:20 , "So when the rams’ horns sounded, the people shouted, and when they heard the blast of the horn, the people gave a great shout, and the wall collapsed. Then all the people charged straight into the city and captured it."

2. David and Goliath (1 Samuel 17): The encounter between David and Goliath is another significant first day of battle. The young shepherd David, armed only with a sling and five smooth stones, faced the Philistine giant Goliath. This battle was not just a physical confrontation but a spiritual one, where David declared his trust in the Lord of Hosts. The first day of this battle was marked by David's bold proclamation of faith and God's deliverance, as he struck down Goliath with a single stone. This victory demonstrated that the battle belongs to the Lord, as David proclaimed in 1 Samuel 17:47 , "And all those assembled here will know that it is not by sword or spear that the LORD saves; for the battle is the LORD’s, and He will give all of you into our hands."

3. The Battle of Ai (Joshua 8): After the initial defeat due to Achan's sin, the Israelites, under Joshua's command, prepared for a second attempt to capture Ai. On the first day of this renewed battle, God provided Joshua with a strategic plan involving an ambush. The Israelites feigned retreat, drawing the men of Ai out of the city, which allowed the ambush to succeed. This battle illustrates the importance of repentance and following God's guidance to achieve victory. Joshua 8:18 states, "Then the LORD said to Joshua, 'Hold out your javelin toward Ai, for into your hand I will deliver the city.' So Joshua held out his javelin toward Ai."

Theological Significance:

The first day of battle in biblical narratives often highlights themes of faith, obedience, and divine intervention. These battles serve as reminders that God is actively involved in the lives of His people, guiding and delivering them according to His will. The victories achieved on these first days are not merely military successes but are seen as manifestations of God's power and faithfulness to His promises.

In these accounts, the first day of battle is not just a historical event but a spiritual lesson for believers, emphasizing the necessity of trusting in God's plan and timing. The outcomes of these battles reinforce the belief that God is the ultimate warrior who fights on behalf of His people, ensuring that His purposes are accomplished.