How can we apply Reuben's warning to our daily decision-making processes? Setting the Scene In Genesis 42:22: “And Reuben answered them, ‘Did I not tell you not to sin against the boy? But you would not listen. Now we must account for his blood!’” ‑- Years after selling Joseph, the brothers feel the weight of an ignored warning. Reuben’s words still shape wise, godly decision-making today. Core Lessons From Reuben’s Cry • Warnings brushed aside never disappear; they simply await a later reckoning. • Sin is individual (“you would not listen”) yet its fallout is shared (“we must account”). • God ultimately tallies the account, not merely people. Applying the Warning to Daily Choices Pause Before Acting • Build in a brief halt so Scripture and conscience can speak (Psalm 119:11). • Rash impulses create lingering consequences. Seek God-Honoring Counsel • “Plans fail for lack of counsel, but with many advisers they succeed” (Proverbs 15:22). • Reuben was that lone, wise voice; gather such friends—and be one. Refuse Complicity • Proverbs 1:10-15 urges: do not join sinners’ schemes. • If secrecy or compromise is required, exit the plan—immediately. Weigh Long-Term Fallout • “Whatever a man sows, he will reap” (Galatians 6:7). • The brothers gained silver, then harvested decades of guilt. Act When Good Can Be Done • “Whoever knows the good he ought to do and does not do it is sinning” (James 4:17). • Reuben’s delayed rescue failed. Right action delayed often becomes right action denied. Own Failure Quickly • “I acknowledged my sin … and You forgave” (Psalm 32:5). • Prompt confession lightens the soul and prevents deeper damage. Five-Point Decision Checklist 1. Scripture: Does this clearly align with God’s Word? 2. Motive: Will it honor Christ or only self? (Colossians 3:17) 3. Counsel: Have mature believers weighed in? 4. Consequences: How might this touch others in ten minutes, ten months, ten years? 5. Peace: Is the Spirit affirming or warning? (Philippians 4:7) Hope After Ignored Warnings • “If we confess our sins, He is faithful and just to forgive” (1 John 1:9). • Joseph forgave his brothers (Genesis 50:20); Christ offers fuller forgiveness still. • Earthly ripple effects may remain, but restored fellowship charts a new, obedient path. Walking Forward With Reuben’s Urgency Keep the phrase “Now we must account” nearby. Let every choice—large or small—be filtered through heeding, obeying, and honoring the Lord, sparing tomorrow’s regret and showcasing His wisdom today. |
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