“…then the men of Israel took some of their provisions; but they did not ask counsel of the Lord…” Joshua 9:14 (NKJV)
After Israel had defeated the people of Jericho and Ai, the people of Gibeon decided to work craftily with the Israelites. They didn’t want to be destroyed like the other cities they heard about, so they pretended as though they were coming from a very far country. “…They took old sacks on their donkeys, old wineskins torn and mended, old patches sandals on their feet, and old garments on themselves; and all the bread of their provision was dry and moldy. And they went to Joshua, to the camp at Gilgal, and said to him and to the men of Israel, “We have come from a far country; now therefore, make a covenant with us…” (Joshua 9:4-6)
Now, Joshua and the men of Israel tried to inquire from them to really know if they were lying or not, but they maintained their stand saying that they came from a far country. “…then the men of Israel took some of their provisions; but they did not ask counsel of the Lord. So Joshua made peace with them, and made a covenant with them to let them live; and the rulers of the congregation swore to them. And it happened at the end of three days, after they had made a covenant with them, that they heard that they were their neighbors who dwelt near them…” Joshua 9:14-16 (NKJV). At this time, it was already too late because a covenant had been entered into and they respected that covenant. Now this deception only happened because they did not ask counsel of the Lord. Many believers today have made serious mistakes like this because they did not inquire of the Lord. Some have even been killed and duped of their money because they didn’t bother to consult God. The question is, is this how God wants us to live our lives? The answer is No. So the next time you want to make a major decision in your life, kindly take some time to ask for the counsel of the Lord. If you do this, you will not fall into any kind of deception. Praise God!
Today’s Rhema
If you will take your time to ask for counsel from the Lord, you won’t be deceived!
Confession for the Day
Lord, I am grateful for bringing this message to me today. I refuse to be deceived therefore I choose to always take my time to ask for counsel and as I do this, I receive timely counsel and direction in the name of Jesus. Amen!
