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Joshua-7

The Sin of Achan: A Devotional Study on Joshua Chapter 7​

Introduction​

In the aftermath of the conquest of Jericho, the Israelites prepared to seize the neighboring city of Ai. Yet, the Israelites met unexpected defeat, putting their collective faith in doubt. As they searched for the source of their misfortune, God's word directed them to Joshua 7, revealing the sin of Achan. In this devotional study, we explore the lessons and spiritual insights from this transformative passage.

Section 1: Unusual Defeat (Joshua 7:1-5)​

Devotional Thought: Chapter 6 of Joshua ends with a clear victory over Jericho - a victory God promised would inspire dread in other nations. Yet, upon arriving at Ai, the Israelites met defeat. Take some time today to reflect on the unexpected twists and turns in your life or ministry. How have recurring setbacks tested your faith?

Reflection Questions:

  • What setbacks in your life, ministry, or faith have recently hit you by surprise?
  • How can you continue to hold onto faith and trust in God during these twists and turns?

Section 2: Yahweh's Inquiry (Joshua 7:6-9)​

Devotional Thought: As the Israelites struggled to make sense of their loss, God led them to undertake a precise investigation, revealing the sins of Achan. May we take the time to reflect on our own lives, reviewing our previous spiritual and moral decisions.

Reflection Questions:

  • Have you recently experienced unexplained and unexpected failure?
  • How can you actively review your own past actions and listen to God's inquiry process?

Section 3: The Sin of Achan (Joshua 7:20-26)​

Devotional Thought: Achan's story of stealing from the acursed city of Jericho reveals the high cost of disobedience - not only to God's Word but also to the community he leads. Today, consider the profound impact your actions have on your relationships, both with God and with others.

Reflection Questions:

  • How have your actions impacted those around you?
  • Are there areas where you need to repent for your impact on community and restore broken relationships?

Section 4: Confession and Restitution (Joshua 7:27-29)​

Devotional Thought: As Achan made admissions and accepted ownership for his actions, the community as a whole experienced restoration. By owning up to our mistakes and focusing on restitution, we too can mend broken relationships and align ourselves more closely with God's will.

Reflection Questions:

  • Have you recently experienced conflict in your relationships that require acknowledgement and restoration?
  • How can you cultivate a lifestyle of confession and restitution in your relationships?

Conclusion:​

As we conclude our devotional study on Joshua 7, let's reflect on the principal lessons shared here. Sin is costly, and it has far-reaching consequences for both us and our community. Yet, our God is a God of restoration and forgiveness, and that reconciliation is possible. Let's strive to live a life that's close to His will - both through our relationship with Him and with others.