Daily Devotion for February 20, 2025

Devotion:

For an audio version of this devotion, click here.

Read Joshua 7:13-26.

This passage tells the story of the reason of Israel’s defeat at Ai and how Joshua deals with the sin in order to restore God’s favor. God told Joshua that there is sin in the camp of Israel. He relayed to Joshua that it is this sin that is hindering his success. God had told them not to steal any of the treasures from Jericho, but Achan disobeyed. Achan's sin of stealing some things from Jericho (a Babylonish garment, some silver and a wedge of gold) and hiding them in his tent, brought the curse upon him and upon the entire nation of Israel. 

This scripture teaches us that there are consequences of sin, and it affects not just the individual but the whole community around them. There is a lesson here about accountability among us. To me this story seems very harsh, to have burned them all, without an obvious opportunity to be forgiven. However, it does demonstrate how important it is for us to live the best we can with God’s guidance so that we all benefit.

Personal Worship Option:

Dear God, help us to lead our lives in a loving and caring way. Lead us to act justly, love mercy, and walk humbly as we are directed in Micah 6:8. May we realize that we exist for the good of the whole and not just for ourselves. Let us be examples of your love to others. Amen.