What can we learn from Achar's story about sin's impact on a family? The Troubler in the Family Line “...the son of Carmi was Achar, the troubler of Israel, who trespassed regarding the devoted things.” (1 Chronicles 2:7) Rewinding the Story Joshua 7 fills in the details behind that brief chronicle entry. Israel had just conquered Jericho under clear instructions that all spoils were “devoted” to the LORD (Joshua 6:17–19). Achar (called Achan in Joshua) secretly kept some of those spoils. What Happened to His Household • Israel’s next battle—a routine skirmish at Ai—ended in shocking defeat (Joshua 7:4–5). • God revealed the hidden theft (Joshua 7:11). • Achan was brought forward with “his sons, daughters, oxen, donkeys, sheep, tent, and all that belonged to him” (Joshua 7:24). • “All Israel stoned them with stones and burned them with fire” (Joshua 7:25). The name of that valley became “Valley of Achor” (“trouble”)—a perpetual reminder. Lessons on Sin’s Ripple Effect in the Family • Hidden sin is never private. One man’s secrecy cost thirty-six soldiers their lives (Joshua 7:5) and shattered national morale. • Families often share both blessing and discipline (Exodus 20:5; Numbers 14:18). Achar’s household was steeped in his disobedience, whether by knowledge, silence, or shared benefit. • Sin erodes trust inside the home. If we lie to God, we will lie to one another (Colossians 3:9). • Disobedience forfeits God’s covering. Israel lost divine protection until the sin was exposed (Joshua 7:12). • Reputation and legacy suffer. Centuries later, the Chronicler still labels him “the troubler of Israel.” • God’s justice is thorough, yet never whimsical. The severe penalty underscored His holiness and preserved the nation from deeper corruption (Deuteronomy 13:11). Guardrails for Our Own Households • Keep short accounts with God—immediate confession (1 John 1:9). • Cultivate transparency: family members know where money, time, and energy go. • Lead regular Scripture reading so everyone hears God’s standards together (Deuteronomy 6:6–9). • Address small compromises early; they seldom remain small (Galatians 5:9). • Model restitution when wrong is done (Luke 19:8). • Teach children that God’s commands are loving protection, not restrictions (Psalm 19:7–11). Hope Beyond the Valley of Trouble Hosea 2:15 speaks of a future day when God will make “the Valley of Achor a door of hope.” At the cross Christ bore our judgment so families can walk out of trouble into blessing (2 Corinthians 5:21). Achar’s story warns, but it also points us to the One who breaks sin’s curse and gives households a fresh start. |
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