Joshua 9:11

“Wherefore our elders and all the inhabitants of our country spake to us, saying, Take victuals with you for the journey, and go to meet them, and say unto them, We are your servants: therefore now make ye a league with us.”

Context: The book of Joshua tells the story of the Israelites’ conquest of the Promised Land under the leadership of Joshua. In this particular passage, Joshua and the Israelites are preparing to attack the city of Ai after their victory at Jericho. However, the Gibeonites, a nearby Canaanite tribe, decide to deceive Joshua and make a treaty with Israel.

Deception of the Gibeonites: The Gibeonites had heard about the mighty victories of Israel and were fearful for their own lives. Instead of fighting against Israel, they resorted to a plan of deception. They disguised themselves, took old sacks, and patched their clothes and sandals to appear as if they had traveled from a faraway land. They approached Joshua and the Israelites, pretending to be from a distant country, and requested to make a covenant of peace with them.

The Request for a Treaty: In verse 11, the Gibeonites explain that their elders and inhabitants advised them to take provisions and go to meet the Israelites. They were instructed to present themselves as servants and ask for a league, or a treaty, with Israel. The Gibeonites hoped to secure their safety and avoid being destroyed by the Israelites.

Joshua’s Response: Despite the Gibeonites’ deceitful approach, Joshua and the Israelite leaders did not seek guidance from the Lord but relied solely on their own judgment. They examined the evidence presented to them, including the old provisions and worn-out clothes, and did not consult God through prayer or the priestly Urim and Thummim. Consequently, they made a treaty with the Gibeonites without seeking the Lord’s counsel.

Lessons for Christians:

• The danger of relying solely on human judgment: Joshua and the Israelites made a critical error by relying solely on their own assessment and not seeking God’s guidance. It serves as a reminder to Christians today of the importance of seeking God’s wisdom and direction in all decisions.
• The deceitfulness of the enemy: The Gibeonites’ deception reminds us that the enemy often employs cunning tactics to deceive and divert believers from God’s plan. We should be vigilant and discerning, relying on the Holy Spirit and God’s Word for guidance.
• The faithfulness of God: Although Joshua and the Israelites made a mistake, God remained faithful to His covenant with them. Despite the consequences of their decision, God used the situation to teach them important lessons and further His purposes in the land.