The Gibeonite Deception

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In my Bible reading plan I read Joshua 9 today. This chapter contains the interesting story of Joshua and the leaders of Israel being deceived by the Gibeonites in Canaan.  The chapter begins with the awareness that the kings of  6 Canaanite nations were banding together to make war against Israel.  However, a seventh nation, the Gibeonites, avoided the direct war approach and opted for a more deceptive approach.  They would play the “poor pitiful me” hand and beg for a treaty.

Observations

This was a risky play, because as we’ll see in chapter 10 the kings of the Amorites respond unfavorably and plan to attack Gibeon for their alliance with Israel. It was risky at another point, if Israel were uncover their deception, they would surely be destroyed. However, as events played out, we see that the Gibeonite deception worked. The indictment is made in Joshua 9:14, “the men of Israel sampled their provisions but did not inquire of the LORD.” Because Joshua did not seek divine guidance, Israel made a mistake, they violated God’s command prohibiting them from signing a treaty with anyone in the Promised Land.

The Israelites later discovered the truth about the Gibeonites, the hand had been played. Israel had entered into a treaty, one they were now bound to keep.

Application

1. Oftentimes we are more aware of, and more prepared for, the direct attacks from the enemy but ignore the more subtle attacks. We know to avoid the big sins but we dabble with the small ones.

2. We often make decisions without applying God’s Word. God’s Word is applicable to every area of our lives. We may not always receive a discernible impression or word from God, but God always promises to be with us and give us wisdom if we ask. Take the time to study God’s Word regularly, seek wisdom, and apply it in your everyday decisions.

3. Israel did not compound the sin with another sin. The treaty was sinful. Yet, they did not break the oath once made. They were obedient to God’s Word in this and remained faithful to their ally. Do not compound your sins. Live with the consequences in a way that honors God.

4. Lastly, our sinful past does not condemn our future if we are Christ’s. Israel made a mistake, it ignored God. Joshua went on his own and sinfully ignored God. Yet, God’s promise to them would still stand. There were consequences to their sin, but God still had a promise for them. Don’t let a sin in your life cripple you. Don’t dwell on past sins, bad decisions, and past hurts. Seek healing and forgiveness from God. Draw closer to Him. Learn from your mistakes, learn to appreciate God’s grace and forgiveness.