How can we discern truth when approached by others, as in Joshua 9:6? Setting the Scene: Joshua 9:6 “They went to Joshua in the camp at Gilgal and said to him and the men of Israel, ‘We have come from a distant land; please make a covenant with us.’” Why Discernment Matters • The Gibeonites’ words sounded sincere, yet they concealed their true identity. • Without discernment, Joshua and the leaders risked disobedience and compromise. • God’s people today face similar appeals—some honest, some deceptive. Genuine obedience requires testing every claim against God’s unchanging truth. Discernment Principles Drawn from Joshua 9:6 • Listen carefully, but verify thoroughly. The Gibeonites spoke convincingly; hearing is only the first step (Proverbs 14:15). • Appearances can mislead. The travelers’ worn sandals and moldy bread aimed to sway by sight, not by truth (1 Samuel 16:7). • Consult the Lord first, not last. Verse 14 reveals the leaders “did not seek counsel from the LORD,” underscoring the necessity of prayerful dependence (James 1:5). • God’s Word remains the final standard. Israel already had clear commands about covenanting with inhabitants of the land (Deuteronomy 7:1-4). Ignoring Scripture invites error. Steps to Testing Every Approach 1. Compare the claim with explicit Scripture. Truth never contradicts God’s Word (2 Timothy 3:16-17). 2. Pray for wisdom and clarity. The Spirit guides into all truth (John 16:13). 3. Seek corroboration from mature believers. “In an abundance of counselors there is victory” (Proverbs 11:14). 4. Examine motives—both theirs and yours. Deceit often appeals to fleshly desires (2 Corinthians 11:13-15). 5. Take time; do not rush. Haste clouds judgment (Proverbs 19:2). 6. If uncertainty remains, wait. God’s guidance never requires disobedient shortcuts (Psalm 27:14). Safeguards from the Whole Counsel of Scripture • Test the spirits (1 John 4:1). • Hold fast what is good (1 Thessalonians 5:21). • Wear the belt of truth, anchoring all armor (Ephesians 6:14). • Let the Word sanctify your thinking (John 17:17). • Walk in light, exposing darkness (Ephesians 5:8-11). Living It Out Today • Keep Scripture accessible—memorize, meditate, consult often. • Build rhythms of prayer before decisions, not after consequences. • Cultivate a humble, teachable heart; pride blinds, humility discerns. • Stay alert for half-truths that flatter or pressure. God’s truth stands firm without manipulation. • Rejoice that the God who preserved Joshua’s generation still leads His people. Depend on Him, and you will stand. |
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