Power, Potential, and Sin
But the Israelites acted unfaithfully in regard to the devoted things; Achan son of Carmi, the son of Zimri, the son of Zerah, of the tribe of Judah, took some of them. So the Lord’s anger burned against Israel.
- Joshua 7:1
Do you know that God has destined you for greatness? God has equipped you with power and authority on the earth, but your power can be short-circuited by sin.
The Israelites were given specific instructions by God not to take any of the items set aside for Jehovah—but Achan did it anyway. Because of his sin, Israel lost the battle at Ai.
The same could happen to us—victories that should be ours can quickly turn to defeats if we disobey God’s instructions and hide our sins in our tents.
Because of Achan’s sin, 36 men lost their lives, the children of Israel were chased by the Ai army, lost an easy victory, and they felt shame, confusion and despair ( Joshua 7:5-6).
Achan’s sin cost him even more...he and his family were all stoned along with his donkeys and sheep. His tent and all that he had was burned ( Joshua 7:24-25).
Whatever is short-circuiting your power...your potential...it’s time to get it out of your tent.
Further Reading
- 1 John 1:9
- Psalms 32:1-5
- Romans 4:7-8
