One persons actions can affect an entire group. This truth became clear to journalist Sebastian Junger as he followed a platoon of soldiers. Junger watched a soldier accost another soldier whose bootlaces were trailing on the ground. He didnt confront him out of concern for his fashion. He confronted him because his loose laces put the entire platoon at riskhe couldnt be counted on not to trip and fall at a crucial moment. Junger realized that what happens to one happens to everyone.
Achans bootlaces were loose, and we learn from his story that sin is never private. After the great victory at Jericho, God gave Joshua specific instructions on how to deal with the city and its loot (Josh. 6:18). The people were to abstain from the accursed things and to put all the silver and gold into the treasury of the Lord (vv.18-19). But they disobeyed his command to them (7:1). The interesting thing is, not all of Israel sinned; only one person didAchan. But because of his actions, everyone was affected and God was dishonored.
As followers of Jesus, we belong to one another and our individual actions can impact the entire body and Gods name. Lets tie up our laces so that we may individually and together give God the honor He deserves.
Read: Joshua 7:1-12
Good evening, Mayor, and thanks for today’s sustenance for body and soul.
How is your mini-mixer coming along? Almost ready for prime time?