Our Lord the Consultant

Scripture: The Israelites sampled their provisions but did not inquire of the Lord. Then Joshua made a treaty of peace with them to let them live, and the leaders of the assembly ratified it by oath. Joshua 9:14-15

Observation: While all other citystate kings will come out to fight Israel, the Gibeonites seek a peace treaty by deception, and Israel agrees to it. The problem is not that they made a peace treaty, as they could still destroy the gods of Gibeon. The problem is that they took action without consulting God about the situation. As a result, the fell victim to a ruse. Once confronted with their error, Joshua is left with a difficult situation ... either fail to carry out God's original orders about purging the other nations from the land, or break an oath he made in the name of God. He chooses not to break the oath.

Application: In every difficult or confusing situation, the proper action is to consult God. This is the place I sometimes succeed, and sometimes fail. What I know - for I have seen it over and over - is that when I consult God my next steps almost always work out. That is not to say I receive instructions, but that God engages in the situation as organizer and orchestrator. He may not guide my steps, but he makes straight the path.

So ... why would I ever fail to consult God? Just like Joshua, I do fail from time to time, and never to my benefit or advancement. And just like Joshua, it is totally unclear as to why I overlook that step in the decision process. For Joshua, he has been advancing with direct guidance and clear word from God, and in this matter something clearly does not seem right. Yet he exercises personal judgment, evaluates the situation, and acts without God's input.

This is the key for me - when I believe I have the information I need to make a personal judgment. Sometimes that information is a collection of data or financial information. Sometimes it is as flimsy as the word of a single individual. I take that input, apply my earthly wisdom, and take action. Instead of that, what I need to do is pray - ask God for guidance, clarity, and to know his will, with his support in the outcome - then take action.

I will keep this in mind more and more as I navigate this challenging time here at work.

Prayer: Lord, I thank you for your guidance and assistance in all things yesterday. May I keep you in the forefront of my actions and decisions today and every day. Show me your will in all matters, including those of the mind as well as those of the heart and soul. May I follow your will, as you aid me in aligning my actions to your ways at all time. Amen.