What You Don’t Know – Can Hurt You!

One of our greatest weaknesses is assumption, especially after success. We extrapolate that one success is the pattern or reason for the next. And it is here that we are most vulnerable – as was Joshua. Typically, this is pride, although we tend to call it something else, such as confidence or being on a roll.

Joshua blundered into a military defeat, a defeat that angered the community (they lost 36 men) and disheartened him. He took his frustration out on God, and God would have none of it. It is always difficult to blame God for something we fail to take responsibility for.

In simple terms, as is so often the case with us, Joshua forgot to pray, I mean, why would you? Everything was going swimmingly well for them.

This became a wake-up call for Joshua and the people of God. Two things had to be learnt. First, which is difficult in our extremely individualistic age, the actions of a few can hurt the many, so the few must face the consequences. Second, it never pays to not pray and seek God’s guidance and assurance.

Joshua, as the leader, had to take full responsibility and deal with the matter at hand, which was a person. I cannot imagine that gave him much joy, which at times is the lot of a leader – making choices for the church that clearly are in favour of the community and not an individual. We find this hard to do. Maybe it always should be difficult, as no one should revel in judging the actions of others, despite it being essential.

The first thing Joshua did when trouble came was to talk to God, even if the conversation was initially accusatory. This is where we should always go – to prayer, as the Lord is always available to those humble enough to admit their weaknesses and failings. And it is better to have it out with God than look stupid in front of the people.

We should examine our lives and ask if any hurtful way remains in us because what we don’t know will hurt us – and others.

I trust these reflections about Joshua before anybody really knew him and entering the promised land, when everything he did was seen by everyone, have been an encouragement to you. Time in the wilderness can be a precious time. It is the time in which God can do wonderful things in our lives.

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We hope you loved this plan from Simon. This particular Bible study is a small snippet from his upcoming book of the same title. If you want to explore more on this topic or read more of Simon’s writing and Bible plans, head to www.simonmcintyre.net