Discernment in Decision-Making – Lessons from Joshua 9
Read Joshua 9:14
Today’s Truth
Joshua 9 tells the story of the Gibeonites, who tricked Israel into making a peace treaty with them by pretending to be from a distant land. They wore old clothes, carried moldy bread, and told a convincing story. Without seeking God’s counsel, Joshua and the leaders believed their deception and made a covenant with them.
This chapter serves as a warning about the importance of seeking God’s guidance in every decision, no matter how straightforward a situation may seem. It also reminds us of God’s grace, even in our missteps, and His ability to use all things for His purposes.
Discussion Questions
- Are you vigilant against spiritual deception in your life? What does that look like?
- Do you pray and seek God’s guidance before making decisions, both big and small? How does that look for you?
- Have you made mistakes in the past that God has redeemed for His glory? In what ways?
Application
Be on Guard Against Deception: The Gibeonites exploited Israel’s trust by appearing harmless and sincere. Without discernment, even God’s people can be deceived.
Seek God’s Counsel in All Things The key mistake in this story is found in Joshua 9:14:“The Israelites sampled their provisions but did not inquire of the Lord.”
Joshua and the leaders relied on their own judgment rather than seeking God’s wisdom, leading to a hasty and flawed decision.
God’s Grace in Our Mistakes: Though the covenant with the Gibeonites was made in error, God still used the situation for good. The Gibeonites became servants in Israel, working for the Lord’s tabernacle, and they were ultimately spared because of the Israelites’ oath.
