In what ways can we seek God's guidance during times of doubt and failure? Facing the Cry of Joshua “ ‘O Lord GOD,’ Joshua said, ‘why did You ever bring this people across the Jordan to deliver us into the hands of the Amorites and destroy us? If only we had been content to stay on the other side of the Jordan!’ ” (Joshua 7:7) What We Learn from His Moment of Doubt - Joshua speaks honestly; God allows raw questions. - He runs to God first, not away. - Though confused, he still addresses the Lord as “YHWH GOD,” acknowledging divine authority. Step One: Bring Everything into the Open - Confess the struggle, as Joshua laid out Israel’s fear. - Psalm 62:8 echoes this: “Pour out your hearts before Him; God is our refuge.” - No pretense, no polished prayer—just truth before the throne (Hebrews 4:16). Step Two: Examine for Hidden Sin - God revealed Achan’s sin (Joshua 7:10–13). - Personal failure or corporate compromise may be blocking guidance. - 1 John 1:9 promises cleansing when we confess. - Psalm 139:23–24 invites the Lord to search and expose what we overlook. Step Three: Listen for Specific Direction - The Lord didn’t leave Joshua in uncertainty; He gave clear next steps (Joshua 7:10–15). - James 1:5 assures wisdom “generously and without reproach” to the one who asks. - Stay in Scripture daily; it is “a lamp to my feet” (Psalm 119:105). Step Four: Obey Immediately and Completely - Joshua followed through: identified the sin, removed it, rebuilt obedience (Joshua 7:16–26). - Partial obedience would have left Israel vulnerable. - John 14:21 links obedience with ongoing revelation of Christ. Practical Ways to Seek Guidance Today - Read and meditate on the Word systematically. - Keep short accounts with God—quick confession, quick return. - Seek counsel from mature believers (Proverbs 11:14). - Fast or set aside focused time to listen. - Recall previous deliverances; gratitude fuels faith (Psalm 77:11–12). - Trust even when answers delay—Proverbs 3:5–6 promises He will straighten the path. Hope Restored - After obedience, God turned defeat into victory at Ai (Joshua 8). - Romans 8:28 reminds that He weaves every failure into ultimate good for those who love Him. - Doubt is not the end; it can be the doorway into deeper dependence and clearer direction. |
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