21 Days: Commissionedनमुना

DAY 7: STAY THE COURSE

Key verse: That is why the Israelites are running from their enemies in defeat. For now Israel itself has been set apart for destruction. I will not remain with you any longer unless you destroy the things among you that were set apart for destruction. - Joshua 7:12

In Joshua 7, the Israelites suffered a crushing defeat at Ai. The failure was traced to one man – Achan. Instead of fully obeying God’s command to destroy everything in Jericho, Achan was distracted by his own desires. He saw wealth and opportunity and chose to prioritise his personal gain over God’s commission. That distraction cost the entire nation a victory.

When we prioritise our own comfort, success, or desires over God’s commission, we may miss out on the fullness of what He has planned. And we may become a stumbling block to others aiming to fulfil their mission.

Distractions are not always obvious sins – they can be good things that capture our attention at the wrong time. Whether it’s pursuing personal achievements, striving for financial security, or simply trying to maintain a certain image, anything that diverts us from God’s purpose can become a stumbling block.

I think about the times in my own life when distractions could have pulled me away from what I knew God had called me to. There were opportunities that seemed appealing and relationships that I thought to pursue but I knew they were not what God was asking me to focus on. In moments like those, Achan’s story is a sobering reminder: distractions can derail God’s commission in our lives if we let them.

Before Joshua and the Israelites could move forward, they had to remove what distracted them so as to get back to the mission. Let’s spare no effort in removing distractions in our lives to stay focused and on track to fulfilling His call and purpose for us.

Response

Are there any distractions in your life right now – whether subtle or obvious – that are pulling you away from fully fulfilling God’s commission?

How can you prioritise God’s purpose over your personal desires and refocus on His call in the coming days?