Saturday, June 22, Sabbath morning began by celebrating Fathers Day with breakfast at the church.
Afterwards, we sang and prayed and worshiped together.
Brother Chuck shared from Joshua 7 about the consequences of disobeying God.Joshua and his army followed God’s instructions and defeated Jericho. However, when a small contingent was sent to take the little town of Ai—they were routed and humiliated.
Joshua and the elders sought the Lord and learned that at Jericho someone had disobeyed God’s orders about plundering. All of Jericho’s treasures were dedicated entirely to God. A man named Achan was tempted by gold and beautiful robes and hid them below his tent. Identified by lot—he and his entire family and all their possessions were destroyed and thrown into the valley of Achor.
The Israelites learned a sobering lesson. Swaggering words, “no one can beat US,” were corrected to “no one can beat GOD.” Something we need to listen to. The strength of our own country is not in our military might—but in looking to God.
At a personal level, how often do we “charge into battle” without checking to make sure we’re prepared? We do not know better than God. Is there something we’re out of line about?
Put on the armor of God!
God’s response to Achan’s disobedience was, “This is a cancer that must be cut out.” Just as Achan’s entire family was wiped out—sons, daughters, even animals, other people are impacted when we sin. For example, viewing illicit material funds human trafficking and the enslavement of boys and girls. Achor—literally means the valley of trouble.
It’s a hard story—a reminder that one man Adam brought sin upon us all. Praise God that through the obedience of one man, Jesus, the many will be made righteous – Romans 5: 12-19.
No sin is too bad for the blood of Jesus. Because of His sacrifice, we are saved. He bridged the separation we made for ourselves.
Join us in person every Saturday for Sabbath School, and Worship, or if you’re far away, join us for Worship online via Facebook.
And–Vacation Bible School is coming soon! What a timely theme: Armor up!
Pataskala Seventh Day Baptist 