Risk

For the past several days I've been reading through the Old Testament book, Joshua.  I've really enjoyed working through this book again as new life lessons crop up daily.  In my study this morning, for instance, something occurred to me that I've never once considered before... at least not in these terms.

First, let me briefly set the stage.  The Israelites have just conquered Jericho according to the LORD's directions; victory is theirs. The city has been burned along with everything in it; only Rahab and her family have been spared.  Joshua then issues the following warning (ch 6, verse 26):

"At that time Joshua pronounced this solemn oath: 'Cursed before the LORD is the man who undertakes to rebuild this city, Jericho:

 At the cost of his firstborn son will he lay its foundations;

at the cost of his youngest will he set up its gates.' " 

Oh. my.  That's a serious admonition.  God did not want His people anywhere near the fallen city or its remains; they were to stay far, far away.  "Cursed before the LORD is the man..."

So back in my study guide, the author's note-- our present day application-- reads as follows:

"We risk our children... each day we try to build our lives in step with a society that honors wealth, sexual perversion, and selfish ambition above service to our King, the LORD Jesus Christ.  We need to step to a different heartbeat... our hearts must pant for His will (emphasis mine)."

Yikes.  "We risk our children..."

... every time we make choices that do not align with the sovereign will of  God. 

... every time worldly desires dictate our choices. 

... every time selfishness motivates our actions.... we risk our children.  

Now that sheds a whole new light on the way I live my daily life.