My title is Pursuit of the “Hi-Life” vs. Pursuit of the Righteous Life.
The story of the Israelites, Joshua, Achan and Ai has always intrigued me. There are some seemingly unanswered questions. You find the story in Joshua 7, but it actually starts in chapter 6. When laying siege to Jericho, the army of Israel was told commanded to take nothing from Jericho. N.O.T.H.I.N.G. We know from the first verses in chapter 7 that Achan had been disobedient. That resulted in a loss in battle to Ai. Eventually, Joshua does what he should have done before the battle and consulted God. He finds out there is sin in the camp. eradicates it and Achan’s family, then receives instructions from God on how to defeat Ai.
Several questions come to mind for me:
- Why did Joshua not consult God first before going to battle? Was he a little overconfident or just so sure of God’s blessing? Or were his eyes blinded so he and all the others could learn a lesson?
- Why did Achan think he could get away with it? How did he get the spoils back into camp without being seen?
The second is much easier to answer than the first. The first is pure speculation on my part. The second is clear, even Achan said it: “I saw the spoils..then I coveted them and took them. And see, they are hidden in the earth inside my tent, with the silver underneath.” Joshua 7: 20-21
What was running through Achan’s mind? Did he think he would get away with it? Was he so blinded by his covetousness that he couldn’t see? Personally, that is my thought.
We all struggle with this (least I do). Seeing what others have and wanting it. I was drawn to Proverbs 21:21 this morning: “Whoever pursues righteousness and kindness will find life, righteousness, and honor.”
What will I pursue? Will I pursue the so-called “Hi-life” and end up like Achan- not death by stoning but with covetousness eking out of my pores- OR will I pursue the obedient life-a righteousness according to 21:21- and find life, righteousness, and honor?
“Father, the pursuit of the “Hi-life” is a dead end. Let me put up a guard against that and not be enamored by the “Hi-Life.” But instead, let my pursue the righteous life, one which is obedient to in all things.”
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My apologies for failing to respond to comments in yesterday’s post in a timely manner. After a very fitful night, sleeping in my office chair for almost an hour and a half (I was by myself…no one saw me. 🙂 ), I finally visited the clinic and was diagnosed with a severe backdoor sinus infection. I went home and slept for almost 3 hours more. I’d say my body needed sleep. Thankfully, I am feeling much better today after the sleep and some antibiotics and a steroid. (I despise taking meds). I’ll get to your comments today.
Joshua had his marching orders. And so far, everything worked. So he assumed that this is how it was supposed to work — and he didn’t anticipate what factors (like Aachan’s sin) might affect the outcome. Just because “it’s always worked this way” doesn’t mean “it will always work this way.” Don’t put your faith in the process, but in God. (And I hope you feel better, Bill!)
Good point Glynn. I like that last statement: don’t put your faith in the process but in God.” And I do feel much better. Thanks.
“What was running through Achan’s mind?” A question I often ask of myself…
It does beg the question… what made His sin worthy of death, while others, say like David, from a human perceptive got away with literal murder. Then there is God’s grace on me today. I know God can see into the heart of man and perhaps that is the difference. Just something that struck me today. Thankful that Jesus provides an alternative.
I would love to have a dollar for every time I asked myself that question too Ryan. Talk about retiring and living off the interest? I’m wondering if the answer to your question in reference to David is Achan’s was a direct command given to Joshua to Achan. But maybe yours is better. God saw into his heart. But God’s grace is viable for me as well.
So glad to know you are feeling better, Bill! I sure hate taking meds, too, but when we need them, we need them!
And may we not be covetous of what others have, but content with our blessings already surrounding us. Sometimes, that’s easier said than done, but it is the road God wants us to travel – the way of righteousness.
Blessings!
Thanks Martha. I’m glad too. 🙂 Contentment is easier said than one for sure.
I like what Glynn said about not putting your faith in the process but in God. I had a dramatic lesson from The LORD years ago. Apparently, I had an arrogant attitude that I was a woman of faith…Abba knows our thoughts and intentions even when we don’t recognize it. Well, He sure did make sure my eyes were opened to it. He showed me my faith was in my faith and NOT in Him. PHEW! Was I knocked down a few pegs! Boy, did I repent! Great post, Bill, and great comments! And I’m glad you are feeling better!
Isn’t it interesting how God gets our attention Diane? When we least expect it and where. But to your credit, you allowed Him to come in and make the changes.
It’s so easy to justify our own sins and go on our merry way as if God can’t see… This is a bit scary to ponder…