It Only Takes One

O. T. #458  "It Only Takes One"
February 12, 2015
Joshua 7-Part 1
But the children of Israel committed a trespass in the accursed thing: for Achan, the son of Carmi, the son of Zabdi, the son of Zerah, of the tribe of Judah, took of the accursed thing: and the anger of the LORD was kindled against the children of Israel.  Joshua 7:1

LET IT GLOW

What caused God to be angry with the children of Israel? It only takes one man, one sin, to cause Israel to loose the battle at the little town of Ai, as a result.  So you wonder what it was? Read on, friend.

Joshua sent spies to check out the strength of the small town of Ai. Because of its strategic location, Ai had to be taken by the forces of Israel. The spies' report was that only 2,000-3,000 were needed in order to conquer Ai. Sounded like it was a pushover since the residences of Ai were few. So Joshua sent 3,000 men for the task. To their surprise, those men fled from the forces of Ai. In fact, 36 Israelis were killed as they fled.

Israel had experienced a great victory at Jericho, which the Lord did perform. Did everyone keep their vow to obey God explicitly? No, they did not.

Are we careful after we experience a victory or success not to be over confident in our self? It can make us vulnerable to temptation.
Are we careful to follow God's directions, then give Him the glory for the victory?


LET IT GROW

Why was the battle with Ai lost for Israel?
For the answer, we must recall the direct command from God back in 6:24-26. Only the gold, silver, brass, and iron vessels were to be taken from Jericho and put into the Lord's treasury. This was not followed by all the people of Israel.

This was a serious offense because it was in direct defiance to an explicit command of God. (Life Application Study Bible)

One man named Achan, called Achor, disobeyed God.

According to Life Application Study Bible, the results of Achan's sin were:

1. Many men died. (verse 5) 
2. Israel's army melted in fear. (verse 5)
3. Joshua questioned God. (verses 7-9)
4. God threatened to withdraw His presence from the people. (verse 12)
5. Achan and his family had to be destroyed. (verses 24-26)

It took only one man's sin to affect the who camp of Israel. Do we take seriously the affect of our sins upon our family, our church family, our nation?

LET IT GO

Turn from fear and trust God by faith.

Follow His commands and instructions for my life.

Realize that God judges sin, confess my sins.