SCRIPTURE: Joshua 9:1-15
OBSERVATION:
The Gibeonites know that they can’t beat the Israelites and their God. They are not repenting and seeking mercy, they are tricky and deceiving, so that they can hang on to their lives and their ways. The Israelites forget to keep their focus on God (success gets to their heads?) and make a treaty with them. The reason God opposes treaties is because of the poisonous effect of the Canaanite religion, and how it will ultimately pervert their own faith. God knows the power of sin, but we often forget and assume we can make it through each days challenges and opportunities without depending on (inquiring of) the Lord.
APPLICATION:
How often do I go into each day on my own, assuming that I can handle whatever comes. Am I aware of the presence of the Enemy, prowling around like a lion, looking for someone to devour (1 Peter 5:8-9). We are not to be afraid, but we are to be on guard. The reason is not because God doesn’t care about the Hivites – He does – but when people are so given over to the power of sin that they will not repent, then God has to also show concern for their potential victims.
PRAYER:
Lord, thank You for the strength You give me every day. Help me not to assume that I can handle life on my own. Help me to keep my focus on You, especially when I face challenges or opportunities each day. Amen.
To live the Christian life is a battle each and every day. As the israelites were an example to the surrounding nations, I too need to be an example to those living around me. God desires His people to live His way and not be influenced by the lifestyles of those in the land. This is also a reason why the ban was exercised when conquering the promised land.
In my daily actions, I must ask God to guide me in all my decisions. I am not alone in my travels and yet I travel as if I am alone. I must always walk with my living God to lead and guide me along the way. In that leading, He will also guide my vision to see what I need to see – not what the peoples/nations around me have, but what I need for the journey. All for Jesus.
I am weak and I need Thy strength and power,
To help me over my weakest hour.
Let me through the darkness Thy face to see,
Lead me, oh Lord lead me.
Chorus
Lead me, guide me along the way,
For if you lead me I cannot stray.
Lord let me walk each day with Thee.
Lead me, oh Lord lead me.