Don't Forget to Ask God

Joshua 9:14 And the men took of their victuals, and asked not counsel at the mouth of the Lord.

In our passage today we learn the value and necessity of God's guidance in every aspect of our life. Joshua and Israel were given the command of the Lord to overthrow and destroy every nation in the promised land, and they were well on their way to do just that. After hearing about the strength and might of the God of Israel, the nation of Gibeon came up with a brilliant plan. They tried to deceive Joshua into thinking that they came from a country outside of Canaan. They wore old dusty clothes, and carried old molded bread, and said that they travelled a long way. Their plan worked perfectly, because Joshua didn't consult with God. He failed to see through their lie, even though God would have surely told him if he had asked. This mistake would soon backfire, and cause Israel some headaches that could have been avoided. We must never rely upon our own understanding, but instead allow Him to direct our paths (Proverbs 3:5-6). He knows what we don't know, and He knows what we think we know also. If we would ask Him for guidance about even the smallest decisions in our life, it would make a world of difference, and it would save us from a lot of headaches and heartaches along the way. As you go through your day today, and you come to those forks in the road, don't forget to ask God!