“And it was told Joshua, saying, The five kings are found hid in a cave at Makkedah.” — Joshua 10:17
“That they may shoot in secret at the perfect: suddenly do they shoot at him, and fear not.” — Psalm 64:4
In Joshua’s day, the enemy kings did not disappear — they hid in a cave. They were still a threat, just no longer visible. David describes the same spirit: enemies who “shoot in secret” — attacks that come suddenly and without warning. Not all opposition is open.
Some enemies hide instead of fight, wait instead of confront, and strike instead of speak. What is hidden is often more dangerous than what is seen.
Illustration #1 — Absalom Against David
“So Absalom stole the hearts of the men of Israel.” (2 Samuel 15:6). Absalom didn’t attack David immediately — he worked in secret, at the gate, quietly turning hearts. Hidden influence became open rebellion.
Illustration #2 — Judas Betraying Christ
“…he sought opportunity to betray him…” (Luke 22:6). “Judas… knew the place…” (John 18:2). Judas didn’t oppose Christ openly — he waited for the right moment and struck in secret. Hidden betrayal led to public arrest.
Not every enemy is loud — some are silent and strategic. Not every attack is visible — some are planned in secret. Not every danger is outside — some are close and concealed.
Joshua didn’t ignore the cave — he dealt with what was hidden. What you ignore in secret… will eventually surface in attack.
Walk with discernment, watchfulness, and spiritual awareness.