Bible Explorer for the Young (Joshua)Sample

Looks Can Be Deceiving

James 1:16

Don’t be deceived, my dear brothers and sisters.

Story 

God commanded the Israelites to avoid making any agreement with anyone who lived in Canaan and to drive out the people from the land. The Gibeonites actually lived in Canaan and they knew that the Israelites would attack and destroy them. So, they thought of a trick to save themselves. By putting on worn out clothing and bringing moldy bread in their bags, the Gibeonites were able to make Joshua and the Israelites believe that they were people from a faraway place. They were able to convince the Israelites to make a peace agreement with them. Later, Joshua and the Israelites found out that they had been tricked. 

Sometimes, what you see from the outside might not be real. Looks can be deceiving. There might be people who act like they are your friends, but they are actually pulling you away from the right path. So be careful. Always check everything according to the Bible. Before you agree with your ‘friends’, to do whatever they suggest you do, always think whether God will like it or not. Do not let yourselves be deceived. If you are unsure what to do or if you are threatened, report it to your parents or teachers right away. 

Pray and read the Bible every day. His Holy Spirit will always guide you and protect you from any evil. 

Prayer

Dear God, I need Your wisdom so I won’t be deceived by anyone or anything that can lead me astray. I want to live according to Your word. In Jesus name I pray. Amen.