In what ways can we avoid being deceived like Joshua in Joshua 9:13? A Snapshot of Joshua 9:13–14 “‘These wineskins were new when we filled them, but see how they have cracked; and our garments and sandals are worn out from the very long journey.’ The men of Israel sampled their provisions, but they did not seek the counsel of the LORD.” ( Joshua 9:13–14) Warning Signs Highlighted in the Passage • Looked at external evidence only • Relied on personal judgment (“sampled their provisions”) • Skipped direct consultation with God (“did not seek the counsel of the LORD”) Guardrails to Keep Us from Similar Deception 1. Anchor Every Decision in God’s Word • Psalm 119:105—“Your word is a lamp to my feet and a light to my path.” • Measure claims, opportunities, and relationships against clear biblical teaching. • Refuse to act where Scripture forbids or even casts doubt. 2. Seek God’s Counsel in Prayer First, Not After • James 1:5—“If any of you lacks wisdom, let him ask of God… and it will be given to him.” • Build the reflex of prayer before signing papers, joining alliances, or posting opinions. • Keep prayer ongoing—some answers unfold over time. 3. Test Every Spirit and Motive • 1 John 4:1—“Do not believe every spirit, but test the spirits to see whether they are from God.” • Ask: Does this align with the character of Christ (Galatians 5:22-23)? • Examine the fruit over the façade (Matthew 7:15-20). 4. Beware the Trap of Flattering Evidence • The worn wineskins looked convincing; appearances still deceive (2 Corinthians 11:14). • Verify facts; consult multiple witnesses (Proverbs 18:17). • Slow down—haste is a frequent partner of error (Proverbs 19:2). 5. Cultivate Spiritual Discernment Through Obedience • Hebrews 5:14—“Solid food is for the mature, who by constant use have trained their senses to distinguish good from evil.” • Daily obedience sharpens perception; compromise dulls it. • Stay in fellowship where brothers and sisters can confirm or caution. 6. Maintain Humble Dependence on the Lord • Proverbs 3:5-6—“Trust in the LORD with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding.” • Admit limitations; God alone sees every angle. • Humility invites direction; pride invites deception (1 Peter 5:5). Practical Checklist Before Moving Forward □ Have I searched Scripture on this matter? □ Have I spent unhurried time in prayer? □ Have trusted believers weighed in? □ Am I compelled by urgency or peace? □ Does the decision honor Christ’s mission and character? Final Encouragement Staying deception-proof isn’t complicated: walk in God’s Word, listen for His voice, and proceed only with His peace. Joshua’s lapse was brief but instructive; our vigilance can be lifelong and Spirit-empowered. |
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