But the children of Israel did not attack them, because the rulers of the congregation had sworn to them by the Lord God of Israel. And all the congregation complained against the rulers.
In Joshua we see that an agreement, a covenant, was made without the Israelites seeking God’s counsel. Later we find that Saul broke this covenant. Then in 2 Samuel 21 we hear about this again as the Gibeonites seek revenge for what Saul did. King David agreed to this. This is a powerful story with so many messages that speak to us today. There is one in particular that speaks the loudest.
Many times, we find in Bible stories where people did not seek God’s counsel. They did not listen to God, or disregarded Him altogether. A powerful message from the above story is to always seek God’s counsel as it stops the injustice of man. If we talk with God, ask Him what we should do, and then listen for what He says, He will lead us down the right path. If we disregard God and go our own way without seeking Him first, we will end up on the wrong path.
Anyone in a position of power should first seek God’s counsel. Each one of us should first speak to God. When we try to handle situations on our own, they lead to disaster or to consequences we could have avoided. When we keep the lines of communication open with God and do what he wants us to do, the blessings are great! What an awesome message in our sermon yesterday! God is so great!