How can we ensure our actions align with God's commands to avoid consequences? The Hidden Sin and Its Fallout “The Israelites, however, acted unfaithfully regarding the things devoted to destruction. Achan son of Carmi, the son of Zabdi, the son of Zerah, of the tribe of Judah, took some of what was set apart. So the LORD’s anger burned against the Israelites.” (Joshua 7:1) • A single act of disobedience brought defeat to the entire nation (Joshua 7:4–5). • God treated the violation as personal—His anger “burned.” • The account is recorded as literal history, reminding us that hidden sin always has visible consequences. Why God Takes Obedience Seriously • He is holy (Leviticus 19:2); even “small” compromise opposes His nature. • He owns everything “devoted” to Him (Joshua 6:19; Malachi 3:8–9). • Disobedience blocks blessing and invites discipline (Deuteronomy 28:15–20; Hebrews 12:6). • Our actions affect others—family, church, community (1 Corinthians 12:26). Practical Guardrails for Staying in Step with God 1. Stay Word-saturated – Daily reading keeps His commands fresh (Psalm 119:11). – Memorize passages that address current struggles (Matthew 4:4). 2. Cultivate instant obedience – Delay is disobedience in slow motion (Psalm 119:60). – “If you love Me, you will keep My commandments.” (John 14:15) 3. Practice transparent confession – “He who conceals his sins will not prosper, but whoever confesses and renounces them will find mercy.” (Proverbs 28:13) – Regularly invite trusted believers to ask the hard questions (James 5:16). 4. Guard the devoted things – Identify areas God has clearly claimed: time for worship, finances (firstfruits), moral purity. – Treat them as non-negotiable—set apart for Him alone (Romans 12:1). 5. Remember the corporate impact – My private choices can hinder my church’s witness (Joshua 7:11–12). – Pursue unity through shared obedience (Ephesians 4:3). Evaluating Our Hearts Daily Use a simple checklist: • Am I harboring anything God calls sin? • Have I made restitution where needed (Luke 19:8)? • Do I sense the Spirit’s peace confirming obedience (Colossians 3:15)? • Is my life bearing the fruit of the Spirit (Galatians 5:22–23)? The Hope of Restoration • God exposed Achan to purify the camp; exposure is mercy, not cruelty (Psalm 94:12). • Confession leads to cleansing: “If we confess our sins, He is faithful and just to forgive us and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness.” (1 John 1:9) • After judgment, Israel conquered Ai—obedience reopened victory (Joshua 8:1–2). Stay vigilant, keep everything “devoted” to Him, and enjoy the freedom and protection that come from walking in wholehearted obedience. |
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