Joshua, 9
22. Joshua summoned them, and he said to them, "Why did you deceive us, saying, `We are very far from you,' when you dwell among us?
22. Joshua summoned them, and he said to them, "Why did you deceive us, saying, `We are very far from you,' when you dwell among us?
Joshua 9 reports the episode in which the inhabitants of Gibeom, concerned about the threat of being attacked by Israel, deceive Israeli leaders by passing a distant people who want to make a peace treaty. Israel's leaders fall into deceit and make a pact with the Gibeonites without consulting God. Below are five verses related to the topics covered in Joshua 9.
Proverbs 14:15: "The fool believes in everything, but the wise man knows how to discern." This verse speaks of the importance of not believing everything that is heard, and seeking wisdom and discernment before making decisions. Israel's leaders were deceived by the inhabitants of Gibeom because they were foolish in believing in their lies.
Proverbs 21:30: "There is no wisdom, no intelligence, no advice against the Lord." This verse speaks of God's sovereignty about all things. Israel's leaders did not consult God before they make a pact with the Gibeonites, and paid the price for this lack of wisdom.
Ecclesiastes 5:4: "When you make a vote to God, be sure to fulfill Him; for not being pleased with fools. What you vote for, pays it." This verse speaks of the importance of fulfilling the vows made to God. The leaders of Israel had made a pact with the Gibeonites, but they could not undo it, for they had taken an oath to God.
Matthew 10:16: "Behold, send you like sheep in the midst of wolves; thirst, prudent like snakes and simple as doves." This verse speaks of the need to stay vigilant and prudent in all situations. Israel's leaders were deceived by the inhabitants of Gibeom because they were not prudent.
Ephesians 5:15: "Therefore, wisely see how you walk, not foolish, but as wise." This verse speaks of the importance of living wise and prudently. Israel's leaders were foolish to believe the lies of Gibeom's inhabitants, and paid the price for this lack of wisdom.
“Comunguemos com santo temor e com grande amor.” São Padre Pio de Pietrelcina
