Strong and Courageous: A Study in JoshuaSample

What does it say?

Israel suffered a bitter defeat in the battle of Ai because Achan took some of the spoils after the battle of Jericho and hid them. 

What does it mean? 

Their first battle to claim the Promised Land had been a wonderful experience for Joshua and the nation. Before that battle, the Lord had made it clear that no one was to take any of the “devoted things” in Jericho. After 40 years of wearing the same clothes and shoes, the Israelites would have to resist the temptation of taking anything for themselves. But Achan didn’t resist, and the whole nation suffered for it. He finally confessed but only after he was directly confronted. Achan didn’t come forward and repent on his own. He confessed because he was caught. 

How should I respond?

The tragedy of Achan demonstrates that when one of God's people sins, it affects the entire community. Achan was not the only one who felt the ripple effects of his rebellion against God's clear instructions - it affected his wife, his family, and all of Israel. In the same way, when anyone in the church harbors secret sin and rebellion, it affects the entire community. Human nature is to hide and conceal, but the gospel actually offers freedom to confess and repent of sin and rebellion. Through the saving work of Christ, God pours out his love, grace, mercy, and forgiveness on those who believe in him. What secret sin is buried in your heart? Confess it to the Lord and he will forgive, pardon and cleanse you! Consider confiding in a trusted brother or sister in Christ and ask them to help you live as Christ has called you to.