So approximately 3,000 warriors were sent, but they were soundly defeated. The men of Ai chased the Israelites from the town gate as far as the quarries, and they killed about thirty-six who were retreating down the slope. The Israelites were paralyzed with fear at this turn of events, and their courage melted away. [Joshua 7.4-5]
In light of what I wrote yesterday (Paralyzed With Fear (for good reason)), the proverbial "shoe is on the other foot" today for Israel and now they, instead of their enemies, are paralyzed with fear.
What changed?
In a word, sin.
Through Achan's indiscretion, all Israel suffered. They became paralyzed with fear. If we can see it, that fear told them something was wrong!
What did they do?
They made it right. They sought out the sin and Achan was killed. Then Israel once again attacked Ai and soundly defeated them.
It is a simple story with a simple lesson. Sin changes everything. Repentance is the only solution with restoration and redemption as the result.
Father, I prefer to avoid sin altogether, however, when I experience curses (defeat) help me to simply repent (turn away from the sin) and return to You.
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