Joshua_9
Joshua 9:1414 The Israelites sampled their provisions but did not inquire of the Lord. ObservationThe “fame of the Lord” [love that, by the way] had reached far and wide. It was well known that Joshua and Israel were blessed in many ways to include battle. Many came together to fight (and lose) against the Israelites, but the people of Gibeon took a different approach. In fear of their lives, they made it look as though they came from a long way off – not neighbors from the land that God had given the Israelites through Moses – seeking a peace treaty with them. They played it up well with cracking and repairing their wine skins, patching up their sandals, using dry and moldy bread. While they looked the part, they were still questioned “But perhaps you live near us, so how can we make a treaty with you?” (verse 7). [Perhaps this was the process with anyone who came before them…or maybe it was the Holy Spirit nudge or that “gut feeling” that something wasn’t quite right.].Of course, when questioned, they lied – calling out the “fame of the Lord” as the reason they’ve come – pointing out all the props and how their condition was due to the “very long journey” they had made to get there…bringing us to verse 14.UnderstandingIt’s ever so slight; in fact, I missed it the first time I read through it. 14 The Israelites sampled their provisions but did not inquire of the Lord.They checked the physical evidence, but didn’t go to God. They relied on their own senses, their own findings, their own determination…but did not seek counsel. And, it’s easy to see why – the sight test seemed obvious. Perhaps we’d make the same decision in those circumstances. But…things aren’t always as they appear.Life ApplicationSeek the counsel of God and His people. Good news is, God is 24/7/365. There’s not a moment that we can’t “reach” him. In our day to day and, ESPECIALLY when we are carrying out His calling, we should seek His guidance, His direction…even in the small, mundane or obvious. He will guide each step. Thank you for your availability, your overwhelming love and your willingness to provide us DAILY guidance. Help me to seek it out, to listen to the Holy Spirit nudge and ACT in accordance.In your name, I pray. Amen.-ReiTo check out the discussion or to join in click here.