Re:Verse reading–Joshua 9 (day four)
Discernment is one of those Christ-like character qualities that can keep us on the narrow track of obedience. Discernment is being able to see both sides of an issue and then, through the filter of God’s Word and His Holy Spirit, being able to determine the difference between the right and the wrong decision. Often, discernment becomes that ‘still, small voice’ or that ‘red flag of caution’ that tells us which way to go or what decision to make. Being attentive to the voice of the Lord requires us to have been regularly in His presence so that we recognize His voice. Once we recognize His voice, our obedience will determine our response to it.
We don’t really know if Joshua and Israel just never bothered to check with God or if they knew better, but chose to disobey. Either way, it was sin and they had to deal with the consequences for the rest of their lives. Before we condemn though, we need to ask ourselves if we are seeking God first in every decision.
