In my work with radio, I’m always listening for new talent and have at times foolishly chosen to work with people because of their impressive experience or larger-than-life personalities. Previous poor judgments have taught me to stop and listen to that “still small voice.” Now I check in with the Lord before being simply swept away by a person’s charisma and impressive words.
God promised the land of Canaan to the Israelites and commanded them to wipe out every nation that stood against Him (Deuteronomy 20:15-18). The Gibeonites knew this and, fearing for their lives, came up with an elaborate and shrewd plan. They told Joshua and the men of Israel that they had come from a distant land and then asked for a treaty of peace (Joshua 9:6-13). As part of their ruse, the Gibeonites wore old clothes and patched sandals. They brought along moldy bread and cracked wineskins and told an impressive story of the long distance they had traveled (Joshua 9:3-5).
The Gibeonites were successful. The Israelites examined their food but didn’t consult the Lord (Joshua 9:14), and they were deceived into signing a peace agreement with their neighbors (Joshua 9:15). The Gibeonites weren’t destroyed (Joshua 9:19-20), but they were cursed for their lie and became slaves to the Israelites (Joshua 9:26-27).
The blind trust of the leaders of Israel cost them part of the land of Canaan. They never enjoyed the fullness of the Promised Land because they didn’t first inquire of the Lord. Whatever your role or circumstance, you need the wisdom of the only One who knows the true intent of every heart. Take the time to inquire of the Lord, and He will guide you and make your paths straight (Proverbs 3:5-6).
NLT 365-day reading plan passage for today: 2 Kings 22:1–23:3
More:
Read 1 Samuel 23:1-12 and see how David’s repeated inquiring of the Lord led to blessing.
Next:
What are some things in your life that you need to bring to God for guidance and direction? How will you seek His will practically in the days ahead?
Gary Shultz on April 27, 2014 at 6:49 am
Hi Ruth: I like the history you chose, so I would like ask a question. Do you think the Gibeonites just feared death or in their understanding also feared God or both? God was not surprised with the outcome, although it was not with the original plan. Just a lesson for Israel or slack for the Gibeonites?
Ruth O'reilly-smith on April 27, 2014 at 9:07 am
Hi Gary, I love this story – some of the first actors in the Bible tricking the Israelites with a performance that was so good they never considered asking God if they were telling the truth. In Joshua 9:1-2 we read how all the kings west of the Jordan came together and planned to make war against Israel – they had seen the devastation brought about by Joshua and the men of Israel and they wanted to bring an end to it. In answer to your question, I believe the Gibeonites feared the Israelites as well as the God of the Israelites. It was a lesson both for the men of Israel – they could not just trust anyone without inquiring of the Lord first. And, the Gibeonites learned that they could not lie to the people of God and get away without any consequences – they became lifelong servants to the Israelites (v.23). It is also a timely lesson for me – for all of us; before we commit to anything or anyone, take the time to ask God and let the peace of God rule in your heart as you make your decision (Colossians 3:15).
gshafer11 on April 27, 2014 at 9:15 am
Thank you Ruth for such a well written response to Gary. I especially like your conclusion. Have a great day!
George
Ruth O'reilly-smith on April 28, 2014 at 8:02 am
Thanks George – praying for you as you inquire of the Lord in all things today and every day.
Winn Collier on May 4, 2014 at 5:25 pm
It’s such a seduction to be pulled to the ones who seems to have the power or the charisma. The slowness to pay attention to God’s way and wisdom is a good word.