The Hivites who controlled neighboring cities created a ruse to rescue themselves when Israel took Ai. They dispatched a party of guys who pretended to have traveled a great distance. They were exhausted and had bundles of rotten bread.
In actuality, Israel would fight these towns next. Israel’s leaders believed their account when they saw the worn bags filled with rotten bread, the patched sandals, and the dry wineskins. In addition, hearing about how people in distant places had heard the testimony of what God was doing for them was somewhat encouraging. It was a great testimony, wasn’t it?
They made a deal with these liars and shared a meal. Rather than seeking guidance from the LORD, they had trusted what they could see. They had no choice but to employ such individuals to serve Israel. They were unable to seize their territories as God had intended.
The Great Deceiver is Satan. He frequently introduces subtle lies that boost your self-esteem. It might even appear to be praising God. The LORD must be consulted. Instead of following our instincts, we must seek God to guide us. God is never misled, but we are easily tricked.
He’ll always have the greatest advise for us. While it might not be a complete loss, our failure to do so is not the finest and highest that God had intended for us. Walk by faith, not by sight, and consult God in His Word, in prayer, and in wise advice.
Think about it: Do I trust my senses or God?
Joshua 9:14-15 14The men of Israel sampled their provisions but did not inquire of the LORD. 15Then Joshua made a treaty of peace with them to let them live, and the leaders of the assembly ratified it by oath.
