The men of Israel sampled their provisions but did not inquire of the Lord. Joshua 9:14
9:14-17 Footnote:
When the leaders sampled these men's provisions, they saw that the bread was dry and moldy, the wineskins were cracked, and the clothes and sandals worn out. But they did not see through the deception. After the promise had been made and the treaty ratified, the facts came out -- Israel's leaders had been deceived. God had specifically instructed Israel to make no treaties with the inhabitants of Canaan (Exodus 23:32; 34:12; numbers 33:55; Deuteronomy 7:2; 20:17,18). As a strategist, Joshua knew enough to talk to God before leading his troops into battle. But the peace treaty seemed innocent enough so Joshua and the leaders made this decision on their own. By failing to seek God's guidance and rushing ahead with their own plans, they had to deal with angry people and an awkward alliance.
This is a good reminder to seek God in ALL areas of our lives, big and small.
8:2 Footnote:
Why did God allow the Israelites to keep the plunder and livestock this time? Israel's laws for handling the spoils of war covered two situations. 1. Cities like Jericho which were under God's ban (judgment for idolatry) could not be looted. God's people were to be kept holy and separate from every influence of idolatry. 2. The distribution of plunder from cities not under the ban was a normal part of warfare. It provided the army and the nation with the necessary food, flocks, and weapons needed to sustain itself in wartime. Ai was not under the ban. The conquering army needed the food and equipment. Because soldiers were not paid, the loot was part of their incentive and reward for going to war.
Keep reading -- 293 days left!
All footnotes taken from the Life Application Study Bible, NIV
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