SCRIPTURE: Joshua 9:16-27
OBSERVATION:
This passage reveals how seriously they took their word. They made this peace treaty with a binding oath (v.15), which likely included a curse from God if broken (“May our God break His vow to us, if we break our vow to you”, or something like that). There are consequences for the Gibeonites for their deception (they become like second class slaves in the nation). They likely called curses upon themselves when they made this peace treaty, and this is why Joshua can call them cursed (v.23). If nothing else, this story reminds us of the seriousness of our word, and should prompt us to think very seriously about breaking a promise.
APPLICATION:
Where have I made a vow like this? I have made clear promises in relationship with my wife, with my children at baptism, with my church re. working as their minister, and with my country as a citizen. And above all, I have given a binding oath to the Lord in surrendering to Him and His cause. Do I realize the consequences of going back on those vows? Is some of the struggle that I experience a consequence of going back on my word, being deceptive or dishonest or unfaithful? Like the Gibeonites, there are consequences for not being truthful or faithful to my word.
PRAYER:
Lord, I do know of ways that I am not living up to my word. Help me to have the same serious commitment to my word as Joshua did, but also help me to think and pay very carefully before making these kinds of promises. Amen.
The example of the Gideonites shows me once again, that I must take God with me wherever I am and whatever I do. And the promises I make i must keep. I must be a man of my word and in keeping that word I must travel with my God. I must be a man of integrity and that is only possible in Christ Jesus.
The Gibeonites were saved and they placed themselves as servants – servants of Israel and of the Lord. Whatever my task, I too must place myself in His total care and serve in all I do and say. I am in His service. I am His servant. Lord help me to serve with a willing heart each and every day in each and every situation. Help me also to carrying my ‘cross’ and follow You always.
Will you let me be your servant, let me be as Christ to you?
Pray that I might have the grace to let you be my servant, too.
We are pilgrims on a journey, we are trav’lers on the road.
We are here to help each other walk the mile and bear the load.