4 lessons from a Disaster

Read Joshua 7.

The first battle for Israel in the new land was a huge success.  God's power was demonstrated; the goal was accomplished; Joshua's leadership and fame was established throughout the land

"But..."  This is the first word in chapter 7.  God gave clear instructions to destroy everything, except some precious metals and those were to be dedicated for holy use by the priests.  In the attack, a man named Achan saw a beautiful coat, some silver and gold and decided to keep it for himself.  In fact, this was stealing from God and disobeying what He had said.  As a result, the Lord was angry with the entire nation and no one seemed to be aware of it.

Then a second problem arose.  In planning for the next battle, pride and self-confidence crept in.  Joshua decided to send only a few soldiers to capture a small town.  After the extensive plan God had given them for Jericho, there appears to be an absence of dependence upon God and seeking His marching orders for the city of Ai.  This explains why Joshua did not know that God was angry.  He never inquired of Him.  The attitude of "we can handle this on our own" is a statement that says, "We do not need God."  The result was Israel' first defeat and 36 men paid for it with their lives.

A devastated Joshua fell on his face crying and praying.  There are times when God desires such an outward display of humility toward Him.  This is not one of those times.  "The LORD said to Joshua, 'Get up!'" (v.10).  Joshua's prayer questioned God, instead of realizing that the disaster had been self-inflicted.

Verses 12-13 state that further defeats would be happening unless the sin was removed.  Finally, Achan was identified and his sin cost the lives of his entire family.

Lessons from a disaster:

1. There is no such thing as a victimless crime.  One person's sin does affect all those around them.

2. Getting rid of sin sometimes involves a painful decision.  The followers of God must be willing to obey and make the tough call.

3. God offers forgiveness for those who respond rightly to Him.

"Behold, it was for my welfare that I had great bitterness; but in love you have delivered my life from the pit of destruction, for you have cast all my sins behind your back." (Isaiah 38:17)

4. A life lived on its own is a recipe for disaster.  It is only when we cast our dependence upon God that we know what He wants done and He can bless our lives.

The old hymn by Annie Hawks and Robert Lowry says it best:

"I need Thee, O I need Thee, Ev'ry hour I need Thee!

O bless me now, my Savior-I come to Thee!"