Joshua 9

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Joshua 9:20-25,  This is what we will do to them: We will let them live, so that God’s wrath will not fall on us for breaking the oath we swore to them.”  They continued, “Let them live, but let them be woodcutters and water carriers in the service of the whole assembly.” So the leaders’ promise to them was kept. Then Joshua summoned the Gibeonites and said, “Why did you deceive us by saying, ‘We live a long way from you,’ while actually you live near us?  You are now under a curse: You will never be released from service as woodcutters and water carriers for the house of my God.”

 They answered Joshua, “Your servants were clearly told how the Lord your God had commanded his servant Moses to give you the whole land and to wipe out all its inhabitants from before you. So we feared for our lives because of you, and that is why we did this. We are now in your hands. Do to us whatever seems good and right to you.”

The reputation of the Israelites is getting around.  People are scared because they know that eventually the people of God are coming for them.  Some nations are joining forces, others are using deception.  The Gibeonites decided to try a ruse, pretending they were a people group from far away, seeking a treaty with the much-feared Israelites.  Without consulting God first, Joshua and the Israelites agreed to an oath with the people of Gibeon.  It didn't take long for them to discover that sure enough, they were a neighboring country (remember, the Israelites were required by God to kill all those in areas close by).  Now, they are in a pickle.  Again, without consulting God, they decide that because the oath has been made, they will allow the Gibeonites to live but they will be a servant class, specifically water carriers and wood cutters for the Israelites.

By this point, Joshua and the Israelites have seen God do amazing things.  People fear them, not because of them, but because of the God they serve.  All they have, all they've done, is because of God's power and provision.  And then, it's like they get amnesia.  These people come to them, wanting to make a treaty, which is a pretty big deal, and they don't even consult with God!  They just do what they think is right and they end up getting duped.

How often do we do the same thing?  We know that all we have is because of God.  We've seen his hand at work in our lives over and over again.  And then a big decision comes up and we get spiritual amnesia.  We don't pray about it.  We just do what we think is right. 

Let's pray...Lord, Forgive us for our spiritual amnesia at times.  Help us seek you and your will before anything else.  We need you, Lord.  Being self-reliant isn't all it's cracked up to be.  More of you, Jesus, and less of me.  Guide me, direct me, lead me.  In Your Name, Amen.