How does Joshua 9:11 demonstrate the importance of seeking God's guidance in decisions? \Snapshot of Joshua 9:11\ “So our elders and all the inhabitants of our land spoke to us: ‘Take provisions for your journey; go to meet them and say, “We are your servants; make a covenant with us.”’ ” (Joshua 9:11) \What Happened: Israel Enters a Covenant without Consulting the LORD\ • The Gibeonites pretend to be distant travelers, presenting worn-out supplies to appear truthful. • Israel’s leaders inspect the evidence, believe the story, and strike a treaty. • Verse 14 records the critical failure: “They did not ask counsel from the LORD.” • Joshua 9:11 highlights the human advice—“our elders… told us”—which Israel accepts in place of divine direction. \Key Lessons on Seeking God’s Guidance\ • Human counsel is never enough. Even well-reasoned advice (“our elders… spoke to us”) can conceal deception. • Appearances deceive; God’s wisdom uncovers truth (1 Samuel 16:7). • Decisions made without prayerful inquiry invite consequences (Joshua 9:16–27). • God’s guidance safeguards against long-term entanglements that conflict with His purposes. \Scriptural Reinforcements\ • Proverbs 3:5–6 — “Trust in the LORD with all your heart… He will make your paths straight.” • Psalm 32:8 — “I will instruct you and teach you in the way you should go.” • James 1:5 — “If any of you lacks wisdom, let him ask God.” • 1 Chronicles 10:13–14 — Saul’s downfall traced to failure to seek the LORD. • Isaiah 30:1 — “Woe to the rebellious children… who make a plan, but not of My Spirit.” \Practical Takeaways for Today\ • Weigh every decision—large or small—in prayer before the Lord. • Measure advice, emotions, and circumstances against Scripture’s unchanging standard. • Wait for clear direction; haste is often a sign that we have not paused to listen. • Cultivate daily fellowship with God so that discerning His voice becomes familiar. |
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