2009-05-25 - Truth and Consequences

Joshua 9:9-16, 21-23

It's never good to hide the truth. Joshua found this out the hard way.

Then Joshua summoned the Gibeonites and said, "Why did you deceive us by saying, 'We live a long way from you,' while actually you live near us?" (Joshua 9:22) After everything Joshua had been through, after everything he had seen God do, he abandoned Him. It was not intentional or out of spite. There was a decision that had to be made, and Joshua made it without talking it over with God. As a result, Joshua was deceived.

The Gibeonites pretended to be faraway travelers in search of peace, when actually they were looking to save their own skin. The Gibeonites wore old clothes and brought moldy bread, to appear as though they had traveled a great distance. It is understandable that they wanted protection, but they went about it the wrong way. Joshua asked them who they were, and where they were from. The people said they were from a faraway land, and when they left home, their clothes and food were new. Joshua was convinced, and they received protection and a treaty of peace.

Once the facts were revealed the oath could not be changed, so the Gibeonites didn't lose their lives, but did not escape punishment. Joshua told them they were cursed due to their deception, and forever would be workers in the fields of woodcutting and water-carrying. This situation reminds us that we need to consult God in all decisions.

Lord, Well, You know the story, I didn't mean to mess things up. I want to do the right thing, but I take the easy way out. I know, I know, in the long run it's never worth it. Help my actions and beliefs to be the same. I want to learn my lesson, so I can have an awesome life. In Jesus' name I pray, Amen.

Lisa

lisa@cfdevotionals.org
http://www.cfdevotionals.org
http://www.postapraise.com