In what ways can we avoid being deceived, like Israelites in Joshua 9:7? Setting the Scene “Perhaps you live near us; how then can we make a treaty with you?” (Joshua 9:7). Israel suspected danger yet still fell for the ruse because they relied on appearances instead of the Lord’s counsel. What Went Wrong - They trusted their senses (“sampled their provisions,” v. 14) - They neglected prayerful inquiry (“did not seek the counsel of the LORD,” v. 14) - They assumed partial information was enough (worn-out clothes, moldy bread looked convincing) - They rushed into covenant without divine confirmation Guiding Principles for Avoiding Deception 1. Depend on God’s Counsel - “Trust in the LORD with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding” (Proverbs 3:5–6). - Always ask first, decide second (James 1:5). 2. Test Everything by Scripture - “Examine all things. Hold fast to what is good” (1 Thessalonians 5:21). - God’s Word exposes falsehood (Hebrews 4:12). 3. Cultivate Spiritual Discernment - “Do not believe every spirit, but test the spirits” (1 John 4:1). - Walk in the Spirit so you perceive truth (Galatians 5:16). 4. Refuse to Be Rushed - Deceivers push urgency; wisdom waits (Proverbs 19:2). - Time for prayer and counsel reveals hidden motives. 5. Seek Godly Counsel - “Plans fail for lack of counsel, but with many advisers they succeed” (Proverbs 15:22). - Invite mature believers to speak into decisions. 6. Watch for Flattering Lies - Satan “masquerades as an angel of light” (2 Corinthians 11:14). - Gibeonites used compliments and false submission; beware surface humility. 7. Stay Humble and Teachable - Pride blinds; humility hears (1 Peter 5:5–6). - Recognize personal blind spots and biases. Daily Practices that Build Discernment - Regular, systematic Bible reading - Memorizing key passages for quick recall - Consistent prayer, asking God to reveal motives—yours and others’ - Fellowship with believers who model wisdom - Fasting at critical crossroads for clearer spiritual perception - Immediate obedience to promptings aligned with Scripture The Blessing of Vigilance Jesus warned, “Watch and pray so that you will not fall into temptation” (Matthew 26:41). Staying alert, prayerful, and rooted in the Word keeps us from repeating Israel’s mistake and positions us to walk in truth and blessing. |
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