“And now, behold, we are in thine hand: as it seemeth good and right unto thee to do unto us, do.”
This verse is part of the account of Joshua and the Israelites’ encounter with the Gibeonites. To provide a broader understanding, let’s delve into the preceding events.
In Joshua 9, we learn that the inhabitants of Gibeon had heard about the mighty victories the Israelites had achieved through God’s guidance. They were afraid of the Israelites and their God and devised a plan to deceive them. The Gibeonites disguised themselves, pretending to be from a distant land, and approached Joshua and the Israelite leaders, claiming they had come to make a treaty with them.
Verse 14 describes how the Israelites examined the provisions of the Gibeonites and discovered that they were indeed worn-out and old. However, they failed to inquire of the Lord and instead relied solely on their own judgment. Consequently, they made a treaty with the Gibeonites, agreeing to let them live.
In verse 15, it is revealed that three days after making the treaty, the Israelites discovered that the Gibeonites were actually from nearby cities. The Israelites were dismayed because they had been deceived, and they realized that they were not allowed to make a treaty with the inhabitants of the land, as God had commanded them to utterly destroy the Canaanites.
Upon discovering the truth, the Israelites confronted the Gibeonites, and in verse 25, the Gibeonites respond by admitting their deception and placing their fate in the hands of the Israelites. They acknowledge that it is up to Joshua and the Israelites to decide what should be done to them.
This verse highlights the surrender of the Gibeonites and their submission to the judgment of the Israelites. They acknowledged that they had deceived the Israelites, and now they were willing to accept the consequences of their actions.
From a broader perspective, this passage reminds us of the importance of seeking God’s guidance in all our decisions. The Israelites made the mistake of relying on their own judgment rather than inquiring of the Lord, and it led them to enter into a treaty they should not have made. It serves as a cautionary tale, teaching us the significance of seeking God’s wisdom and direction in our lives.
Overall, Joshua 9:25 showcases the surrender and acceptance of responsibility by the Gibeonites, as they leave their fate in the hands of the Israelites, and it serves as a reminder for us to seek God’s guidance in our decision-making processes.
