| The Gibeonites were a nation God told Joshua to destroy. Although they were heathens, they were wise enough to know they were on the wrong side. So they disguised themselves and talked Joshua into making a covenant with them, saying, '..."We are your servants"...' (Joshua 9:8 NKJV). When their old allies heard they'd joined forces with Israel, they declared war on them. Because of their covenant, Joshua fought for them and delivered them. This story teaches us three important principles. First, [VA ensure text runs on here] there comes a point when, in order to follow God, you have to 'make the break' with your past. One of the things that hurts us is that we want to move forward without making waves or upsetting anybody. You've got to get beyond that! '...If anyone is in Christ, he is a new creation; old things have passed away; behold, all things have become new' (2 Corinthians 5:17 NKJV). Second, the Gibeonites were willing to humble themselves and ask for help. No matter how gifted you are, there will be times when you need to reach out to others and say, 'Hey, I'm going through some stuff, I need help, let's get together.' There's power in 'holy communion'. Third, when you remember where you were you'll be grateful for where you are. The Gibeonites came on board as wood cutters and water carriers; they were happy just to serve. Forget about being a spiritual celebrity. Just serve! Serving is vertical: 'Serve the Lord with gladness...' (Psalm 100:2 NKJV). It's also horizontal: '...through love serve one another' (Galatians 5:13 NKJV). When it comes to wisdom for living, you can't improve on 'the Gibeonite principles'. |
