What steps can we take to align with God's will after a setback? Setting the Scene Joshua 7 records Israel’s shocking defeat at Ai after their stunning victory at Jericho. Joshua cries, “O Lord, what can I say, now that Israel has turned its back and run from its enemies?” (Joshua 7:8). His question shows us how to respond when we, too, stumble. Step 1: Face the Setback Honestly • Joshua doesn’t pretend nothing happened. He brings the failure before God. • Psalm 51:3—“For I know my transgressions, and my sin is always before me.” • Honesty invites God’s light; denial keeps us stuck. Step 2: Seek God First • Joshua falls on his face until evening (7:6). Before strategizing, he worships. • Proverbs 3:5-6—“Trust in the Lord with all your heart… He will make your paths straight.” • We listen for His diagnosis before chasing our own remedies. Step 3: Remove the Offense • God reveals Achan’s hidden sin (7:11-13). The camp must be cleansed. • 1 John 1:9—“If we confess our sins, He is faithful and just to forgive us and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness.” • Repentance isn’t merely feeling sorry; it’s uprooting whatever defies God. Step 4: Renew Covenant Obedience • After judgment is carried out, the Lord says, “Do not fear or be dismayed. Take all the people of war with you, and arise, go up to Ai” (8:1). • Obedience restores fellowship and reopens God’s guidance. • John 14:21—obedience proves love and draws us into deeper revelation. Step 5: Move Forward in Faith • Israel attacks Ai again—this time under God’s direction—and wins (8:18-19). • Philippians 3:13-14—forget what lies behind, press on toward the prize. • Setbacks become platforms for fresh victories when we step out trusting God’s promised presence. Key Takeaways • Failures highlight hidden issues God wants to heal. • Run to Him, not from Him. • Confession plus decisive action clears the way for blessing. • God’s purposes for us continue past our worst moments. |
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