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Dear Heavenly Father, Praise Joshua said, “Sun, stand still at Gibeon, and moon, in the Valley of Aijalon. And the sun stood still, and the moon stopped, until the nation took vengeance on their enemies…There has been no day like it before or since, when the Lord heeded the voice of a man, for the Lord fought for Israel” (Josh 10:12–14). I praise you today as the God who heeds the voice of your children. Truly, you answer me when I call to you (Ps 91:15). Hallelujah for the God who fights for me! Today in Your Word Today you told me about the Gibeonite deception, Joshua’s military campaigns in southern and northern Canaan, and the final conquest of the promised land. The Gibeonites lived about seven miles southwest of Ai, and word of the destruction of Jericho and Ai reached them quickly. Instead of marching out to battle, they decided that deception was the better part of valor. They came to Joshua and asked to make a covenant with Israel. Their tactic has much to teach me about how to avoid being deceived: (1) I should beware of those who flatter or appeal to my sense of vanity (Josh 9:8); (2) I should not assume that everyone who sounds spiritual or professes godliness is genuine (Josh 9:9); (3) I should guard against my tendency to trust what I can see and touch (Josh 9:12–13). Joshua and the other leaders examined their provisions, “but did not ask counsel from the Lord” (Josh 9:14). This teaches me that I will face decisions where I can examine the facts, carefully consider my options, consult godly friends, search the Scriptures (cf. Deut 20:10–15), and yet make a tragic mistake unless I specifically ask you for guidance. Such decisions are intended to test my commitment to put you first in all things. Joshua waged war for years against the kings of the land, and you hardened the Canaanites’ hearts so they would fight Joshua rather than surrender (Josh 11:20). This was in keeping with your decision to wipe them out, for they had not repented and their sin was now complete (cf. Gen 15:16). This also implies that the Hivites of Gibeon, one of the ethnic groups chosen for destruction (Deut 20:16–17), were not hardened, leaving them free to seek peace, even if through deception (Josh 11:19). This shows that you are merciful, often sparing sinners until there is no hope of repentance. Reflection Joshua and the other leaders didn’t feel the need or think to ask for your direction. Do I make a habit of consulting you in all my decisions, or do I seek your guidance only when I’m in doubt? Request Father, give me a renewed sense of my complete dependence on you. Help me to diligently seek your will in all my decisions, and keep me from the way that “seems right” (Prov 14:12). Thanksgiving Thank you for giving me the chance to learn from the mistakes of others. I’m grateful for the warning, “Let him who thinks he stands take heed lest he fall” (1 Cor 10:12). In Jesus’ name, Amen. Suggested Hymn: “Guide Me” by Clara M. Brooks. Meditation Verse: Joshua 9:14. |