What strategies can we implement to avoid being deceived like Israel was? Setting the Scene: Israel’s Misstep Joshua 9 records how crafty Gibeonites posed as distant travelers to secure a treaty. Israel inspected the moldy bread, worn wineskins, and torn sandals—yet “they did not seek the counsel of the LORD” (Joshua 9:14). The result? A binding covenant with deceivers. Verse 2 frames the wider danger: “they came together to wage war against Joshua and Israel” (Joshua 9:2). The enemy was united; Israel was undiscerning. Recognize the Schemes of the Enemy • Satan still organizes opposition (Ephesians 6:11). • Deception often looks harmless, even helpful (2 Corinthians 11:3). • Appearances can lie (Proverbs 14:12). Strategy 1: Seek the Lord Before Every Decision • Israel’s failure hinged on skipping prayerful inquiry (Joshua 9:14). • James 1:5—ask for wisdom and expect God to supply it. • Proverbs 3:5-6—trust, acknowledge, and He will straighten paths. Strategy 2: Measure Every Proposal against God’s Word • God had already forbidden covenants with Canaanites (Deuteronomy 7:1-2). • The written Word never contradicts the will of God; check every offer against Scripture. Strategy 3: Slow Down and Observe the Fruit • Gibeon’s story fell apart under time and scrutiny, but Israel rushed. • Matthew 7:16—“By their fruit you will recognize them.” • Practical steps: – Require time before commitments. – Verify facts, don’t just accept testimonies. Strategy 4: Consult Godly Counsel • “With many counselors there is deliverance” (Proverbs 11:14). • Bring decisions to mature believers who will speak truth, not flattery. Strategy 5: Test the Spirits • “Do not believe every spirit, but test the spirits” (1 John 4:1). • Questions to apply: – Does this draw me closer to Christ or center on self? – Does it align with sound doctrine? Strategy 6: Stay Watchful in Prayer • “Watch and pray so that you will not enter into temptation” (Matthew 26:41). • Consistent prayer keeps spiritual senses sharp and exposes hidden motives. Strategy 7: Wear the Full Armor of God • Ephesians 6:11—armor deflects “the devil’s schemes.” • Key pieces: – Belt of truth—commitment to honesty. – Breastplate of righteousness—upright living limits compromise. – Shield of faith—trust quenches fiery lies. Strategy 8: Cultivate Discernment through Steady Intake of the Word • “By constant use” of solid food, believers “distinguish good from evil” (Hebrews 5:14). • Daily reading trains instincts; deception loses power when truth is familiar. Putting It All Together • Israel’s oversight was simple: they relied on sight, not on the Sovereign. • We avoid the same trap by slowing down, praying first, cross-checking with Scripture, leaning on godly counsel, and maintaining watchfulness in the Spirit. • The enemy’s strategies may evolve, but the Lord’s protective wisdom remains unchanged—and freely available to those who ask. |
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