Today's Passage - Joshua 9:3-6

River of Life Christian Church ︳www.rolcc.net/english Joshua 9:3-6    However, when the people of Gibeon heard what Joshua had done to Jericho and Ai, they resorted to a ruse: They went as a delegation whose donkeys were loaded with worn-out sacks and old wineskins, cracked and mended. The men put worn and patched sandals on their feet and wore old clothes. All the bread of their food supply was dry and moldy. Then they went to Joshua in the camp at Gilgal and said to him and the men of Israel, "We have come from a distant country; make a treaty with us."      When the cities of Canaan heard the deeds that Israelites did by the power of God, they were terrified. There are two kinds of reactions: one, that of kings of west Jordan River. They knew that what they were confronting real God. But their hearts grew harder in spite of that realization. They intended to bind together to defend the work of God with their own might. The reason for their union was the result of pride deep inside their hearts and their spirits. The other reaction was that of people in Gibeon. They were afraid as well. But that didn't make them refuse God, instead they turn to God. Those two reactions are in fact people's two states of mind: one reflects the pride, the other the humility. Those who are proud don't recognize the existence of God, not to mention the authority of God. Since they don't believe in the omnipotence of God, they have to rely on themselves. In fact, as one grows older, one will finally realize that he/she can't even control his/her own temper, his/her own circumstance. In the end, pride brings self destruction. However, those who are humble readily admit their own limitations and needs. They see the work of God from all things in this world. Gibeon used a ruse. But it showed their humility. Even though they received curses because of their misdeeds, because of their humility, they also received God's compassions and blessings.    Humility is the first step toward receiving God's blessing. In fact, those who are humble are also happy. It is because they admit they have nothing. No matter how much or little God gives, their hearts are full of joy. But those who pride themselves will not receive joy. Because they believe they deserve whatever they have. They complain for what they lack. There lives are devoid of joy. Brothers and sisters, are you humble in front of God? Only those who are humble will receive all things from God.   Pray with Pastor Tong       Lord, may you give us humble hearts. Because even though you have the image of God, you became a man to save us from the bondage of sins. May you break our bondage of pride, so that we will receive all your grace. I thank you and I pray in the victorious name of Jesus, amen!