FALSE EVIDENCE

Discussion

Joshua had become the leader of the entire nation of Israel. His primary duty; Lead them into the territories God promised to give them. These territories were occupied by powerful nations and terrifying kings, but Joshua believed God's word. First, they miraculously crossed the river Jordan. Next, they completely obliterated the great city; Jericho. Then they descended on Ai, and in the second attempt, wiped out the entire city of Ai. Joshua's military campaign made such a fearful impression on the surrounding nations that the city of Gibeon thought up and executed a cunning plan to surrender to Joshua. They did, though through deceptive means, and became hewers of wood and drawers of water for the camp of Israel. They sent ambassadors who loaded their donkeys with stale bread and old broken wine skins, who claimed to be from a distant land but were really from nearby Gilead; one of the territories to be inherited by Israel. These men by this deception made a treaty with Joshua for their city to not be destroyed. The question is this; how could they have deceived the mighty Joshua? The answer is simple; Joshua did not consult God about this matter before making a decision. He simply observed the physical evidence and drew a conclusion based on the evidence. The evidence was false and resulted in them sparing a nation that was among those to be destroyed.

This is what happens when you walk by sight and not by faith. This is what happens when you take action without considering the will of God in a matter. The bible says in Prov.3.5-6; "Trust in the LORD with all your heart; do not depend on your own understanding. Seek his will in all you do, and he will direct your paths."NLT. False evidence often appears real, only a mind submitted to God's word can discern the difference. A false evidence may be a medical report. Before you rush into surgery, consult God to know His will on the matter. This could be the difference between life and death. Time spent consulting God in prayer is not wasted time. Before you make that decision concerning that matter; pray! Don't depend on what you see with your eyes; rather depend on the leading of the Spirit. Some mistakes are too costly to be made.

Shalom Uvracha!