First Of All, Pray!

“So let us come boldly to the throne of our gracious God. There we will receive his mercy, and we will find grace to help us in our time of need. Hebrews 4:16

Joshua’s prayer life teaches us what happens when we don’t pray as we ought, or when we leave prayer for later.

In the days following Joshua’s victory over Jericho and Ai, a group of strangers entered Joshua’s camp. They told him, “From a very far country your servants have come.” Joshua 9:9

They presented themselves as hapless pilgrims from a distant place. Everything seemed to fit their story.

Three days passed before Joshua realized he had been scammed. These people were not from a distant land; they were from the neighbouring city of Gibeon. Their weathered clothing was a disguise. They pretended to be foreigners because they knew that the Hebrews had conquered Jericho and Ai. So, being afraid, they resorted to deception. Why didn’t Joshua and the elders detect the ruse?

“They did not ask counsel of the Lord.” Joshua 9:14

The practice of the Hebrews was supposed to be; pray first, then act. Joshua was told to “stand before Eleazar the priest, who shall inquire before the lord” (Numbers 27:21). Joshua failed to do this.

He and his council entered into an alliance with the enemy because they didn’t seek the counsel of God. We need to learn from Joshua’s mistake. Our enemy enters our camp in a disguise as well.

Satan himself masquerades as an angel of light. 2 Corinthians 11:14

He is crafty. That’s why it is essential that we consult God in everything. Always. Immediately. Quickly. Live with one ear toward heaven. Keep the line open to God.
“Is this opportunity from You?”
“Are you in this venture?”
“Should I take this road?”

This is the way to live Victoriously. At every decision. At each crossroads. Acknowledge Him, heed Him, ask Him first! That’s how to secure your win.