Joshua - VS the DeceiverHalimbawa

High off their victory against Jericho and Ai, Joshua and the Israelites dedicated themselves to the revelation of God - they had barbeque filled with worship, prayer, and Bible study.

During that mountaintop experience, Israel met a tribe that did not belong. Confident in their victories and their renewed knowledge of God’s law, they asked the Gibeonites who they were and where they came from.

They asked the right question to the wrong person.

They studied God’s word but neglected His counsel.

Israel trusted in their head knowledge of God’s law to help them identify the counterfeit instead of directly trusting in God. 

• They traded a piece of inheritance for some crumbly bread. 
• They exchanged the counsel of God for old wineskins. 
• They swore peace to those set aside for destruction.

In our zeal to pursue the disciplines of worship, prayer, and bible study - we must not neglect our daily relationship with God.

Challenge:

• Memorize Psalm 23:5
• When has your zeal for knowledge surpassed your love for God and His Image-Bearers