RPG Adults
GOD’S HAND SEEN IN THE ACT OF THE GIBEONITES
THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 9
Joshua 9
Matthew 5:13-16
“Ye are the light of the world.
A city that is set on an hill
cannot be hid.”
GOD’S HAND SEEN IN THE ACT OF THE GIBEONITES
Matthew Henry saw the action of the Gibeonites from another point of view:
“Other people heard these tidings, and were irritated thereby to make war upon Israel; but the Gibeonites were induced to make peace with them. Thus the discovery of the glory and the grace of God in the gospel, is to some a savour of life unto life, but to others a savour of death unto death, 2 Co 2:16. The same sun softens wax and hardens clay. The falsehood of the Gibeonites cannot be justified. We must not do evil that good may come… one lie brings on another, and that a third, and so on. The way of that sin is especially down-hill. Yet their faith and prudence are to be commended. In submitting to Israel they submitted to the God of Israel, which implied forsaking their idolatries. And how can we do better than cast ourselves upon the mercy of a God of all goodness? The way to avoid judgment is to meet it by repentance. Let us do like these Gibeonites, seek peace with God in the rags of abasement, and godly sorrow; so our sin shall not be our ruin. Let us be servants to Jesus, our blessed Joshua, and we shall live.”
Joshua made a league with the Gibeonites and spared their lives. The princes of the congregation swore unto them. Israel recognised their true identity too late. But Israel had to keep their oath and let them live. Israel made them hewers of wood and drawers of water. They were to be lowly servants. They surrendered because they were fearful and accepted what was assigned to them.
There are two lessons here:
1. Do not make an important decision in haste.
2. Honour your oath.
THOUGHT: The sovereign hand of God is in every activity of men.
PRAYER: Father, may I bear a testimony for Thee by being truthful.