The Effects of Our Choices

But the children of Israel committed a trespass in the accursed thing: for Achan, the son of Carmi….took of the accursed thing: and the anger of the LORD was kindled against the children of Israel. Joshua 7:1 (KJV)

This verse follows Israel’s victory over the city of Jericho. But before that victory ever took place Joshua gave very clear instructions to the people not to take anything out of the city unto themselves because it was all to be consecrated to God. Along with the instructions, a warning was given. Joshua told them if they took items for themselves they would make themselves accursed as well as make the nation a curse and they would bring trouble upon it.

So here is what becomes clear to me about Achan. He KNEW he was taking something God had forbidden him to take. And what a load of forbidden goods he took and hid in his tent! A Babylonish garment, silver, and gold. As he collected and carried the items to his tent, he KNEW he was being disobedient and defiant toward God. But he also KNEW his actions would bring trouble upon his people (the nation of Israel). The consequences of his sin would fall to many others. God’s presence and protection were removed, they were not able to stand up against the city of Ai, thirty-six men died during the retreat, and the confidence of Israel drained out of them. As Achan saw this come about he KNEW he was the cause of it all.

It is easy for me to sit in wonder and judgment of Achan. I can detect his sin and the painful consequences that followed. But how good am I at recognizing my own sin and the consequences that would fall to me and other people in my life? Let’s face it, my sin whether in word, deed, or thought will affect more than just myself. But the effects can be broken if I bring them to the cross and allow Jesus to cleanse me. I don’t want to be like Achan and attempt to keep things well hidden in my life. After all, God sees everything I do, hears every word I speak, and is aware of every thought and motive I have. He knows when I have grabbed a hold of anything He has forbidden and His invitation to me is to come to Him for forgiveness, healing, and restoration. I accept His offer!

Father, I don’t want to bring trouble to others because of the effects of unconfessed sin in my own life. Help me to daily bring to You the sins of my words, actions, and thoughts. I receive the cleansing You offer. Amen.