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)
Not all wisdom is created equal. There is a difference between wisdom that comes from man and wisdom that comes from God. One of the dangers of gaining wisdom is that one is tempted to rely on himself rather than on the Author of wisdom: the Lord.
Joshua’s enormous leadership debacle was relying on his own wisdom rather than seeking the Lord’s wisdom in the situation with Gibeonites. This fatal mistake resulted in the Israelites failing to follow through with God’s explicit instructions to rid the land of all of its inhabitants. Joshua was fooled by his opponents because he didn’t seek the Lord’s help in deciding what to do.
Anytime you’re tempted to make a decision without first approaching God, you open yourself up to missing His plans. In those moments when you have to decide, take some time to pause, and seek the Lord. He will make your direction clear.
Father, help me not to rely on my own wisdom. Let me, instead, seek wisdom from You. In those moments, be pleased to give me direction so that I live in a way that brings You glory.
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