What does Joshua 9:8 teach about seeking God's guidance before making decisions? Setting the Scene “ ‘We are your servants,’ they said to Joshua. Then Joshua asked them, ‘Who are you and where have you come from?’ ” (Joshua 9:8) What Joshua Heard • A humble‐sounding offer: “We are your servants.” • An invitation that appealed to compassion and diplomacy. • Words that seemed to promise peace without conflict. What Joshua Missed • The offer came from disguised Gibeonites, not distant travelers (vv. 4–6). • Appearances and stories were accepted at face value. • No consultation with the LORD occurred before responding (see v. 14). Timeless Principles • Flattery and apparent humility can mask hidden agendas (Proverbs 26:24–26). • Even sincere leaders make costly mistakes when they rely on sight alone (1 Samuel 16:7; Proverbs 14:12). • God stands ready to direct His people, yet waits to be asked (Psalm 32:8; James 4:2b). Steps for Us Today • Pause: Refuse to act on first impressions, no matter how harmless they seem. • Pray: “If any of you lacks wisdom, let him ask of God…” (James 1:5). • Probe: Test every proposal against Scripture’s clear commands (2 Timothy 3:16–17). • Proceed: Move forward only when God’s guidance aligns with His Word and inner confirmation from the Holy Spirit (Colossians 3:15). Bottom Line Joshua 9:8 shows that the right words from others are never a substitute for seeking the LORD’s counsel. Decisions made without divine guidance invite deception; decisions bathed in His wisdom secure His protection and blessing (Proverbs 3:5–6). |
    |