#soap # Joshua 9 ## Title: Take Time to Consult the Lord ## Scripture: (Joshua 9:14) “The men examined some of their provisions, but they failed to ask the Lord’s advice.” (NET) ## Observation: This is a bad spot. Israel is doing what God has told them to do and people are trying to deceive them. Even though they are lying, the Gibeonites have set a convincing trap. There is a short sentence in this whole story that shows where Israel went wrong. They did the best they could, but they couldn’t see around corners. They should have consulted the Lord. This is not always easy because the pace of life often makes us think we have to have quick answers. We can also be afraid of looking foolish in front of our peers or think we have to have all the right answers all the time. However, look at the consequences of getting it wrong. This disaster would be with them permanently. It even plagued the first king of Israel. ## Application: What does this look like practically? Pray before you begin the day. Ask the Lord to give you wisdom as you go. Before making big decisions, pray and ask God for wisdom. An extra moment for prayer can save a lifetime of grief. ## Prayer: Thank You, Jesus, for reminding us that we can always turn to You.