How would you respond if 36 people died on your watch? Imagine that, indirectly or directly, you were responsible. Think about the long-term effects, both on the families and on the morale of the ministry. How could you recover from this?
When Joshua found out that valiant warriors had been slain at Ai, he immediately fell facedown to the ground before the ark of the Lord, tore his clothes, and cried out to God. The elders joined him, sprinkling dust on their heads. Their questions were met immediately by a response from the Lord.
God revealed the source of their devastation: Someone in Israel had directly disobeyed the Lord during their conquest of Jericho. The Lord was unwilling to let them proceed with further blessing until they dealt with this violation.
Is it possible that, as we have been leading, sin has occurred on our watch? Is it possible that we should have responded more quickly and more decisively? Have there been unintended consequences to others? In situations like these, when the Lord has gotten your attention, passionate intercession is the first step toward reconnecting with His favor!
Lord, give us the courage and the wisdom to know when to extend grace, when to show mercy and when to call sin for what it is: sin! We will allow You to determine the extent of the judgment. One thing is certain: we would rather live in the wilderness with Your protective hand, than in the Promised Land without it!
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By: Glenn Burris Jr., general supervisor
