A Greater Beauty - Joshua 7:18-26 -Micah Schnautz

Synopsis: When we think of how God commanded the Israelite people to live and conduct themselves we can too quickly point fingers calling it unfair and tyrannical. God set up specific rules to be followed by his people when they conquered other nations. However, if we look below the surface of the rules and wars we see God wasn't looking just after their own best interest but actually for the interest of their neighboring nations along with the rest of the world to come. Joshua chapter 7 shows us how serious God is about sin and how if not dealt with properly it will affect and infect not just the sinner but the family, community and world. Questions: What is the difference between lust and coveting? For Achan, his eye was caught, and looking too long his heart was captivated. In your experience, how quickly can people, possessions, and positions of power take our hearts from us? How do you think Achan's clan felt when the lot was on him for committing the crime against God?How many others do you think knew about the crime but they didn't talk?Do you believe God was right in how far he went in disciplining his people? Can you trust God when discipline comes to your local church? To your family? To you? Jesus' sacrifice is the greatest beauty for our hearts. Focus on his sacrifice for you and may your priorities be closer aligned in the Father's will. Challenge: It's important we confess our sins and struggles to a trusted small group. Would you consider opening up with whom you trust about your struggles so accountability can be implemented and that you and everyone around you can be liberated from the sin?