Fateful Choices: They can Shape our Destiny

 Lessons of Faith from Joshua - Sabbath School Lesson 6 -  Tuesday

Fateful Choices

Scripture Focus: Joshua 7:19–21

In Joshua 7:19–21, Joshua confronts Achan after the devastating defeat at Ai. Joshua’s words are both firm and tender: “My son, give glory to the Lord, the God of Israel, and give him the praise; tell me what you have done; do not hide it from me.”

Joshua’s Request and Its Significance

Joshua is asking Achan to do two things: give glory to God and confess his sin. This request is profound. It acknowledges God’s supremacy and reminds Achan that his actions were not merely a private matter—they were a direct violation of the covenant. By confessing, Achan would have honored God and restored some integrity to the community.

Yet, while Achan speaks, the Bible gives no indication of genuine repentance. His words are more a cover-up than remorse, revealing the human tendency to protect oneself rather than submit fully to God.

The Root of the Sin: Coveting

Achan’s sin begins with coveting—the desire for what was forbidden. Coveting is the tenth commandment (Exodus 20:17), and it is deceptively dangerous. Often, coveting leads to the breaking of other commandments: lying, stealing, and dishonoring God. One hidden desire can unravel a life of obedience.

“For where your treasure is, there your heart will be also.” — Matthew 6:21

Coveting is subtle, yet powerful. It begins in the heart and, if unchecked, manifests in destructive actions.

Avoiding Coveting

How do we protect ourselves from this slippery slope?

• Contentment: Focus on God’s provision rather than what others have (Philippians 4:11–12).

• Gratitude: Regularly acknowledge and thank God for what you possess.

• Guarding the heart: Monitor desires and recognize when they drift toward envy or greed (Proverbs 4:23).

• Confession and accountability: Speak with trusted mentors or friends about struggles with temptation.

By cultivating these practices, we prevent hidden desires from dictating our actions and harming others.

Reflection

Achan’s story is a cautionary tale: one fateful choice, born of coveting, can bring widespread consequences. God calls us to transparency, integrity, and reverence, reminding us that no sin is truly hidden.

---

Prayer

Father,
Help me recognize and root out coveting in my heart. Teach me contentment and gratitude, and give me the courage to confess and turn from sin before it grows into destructive action. Guard my desires, guide my choices, and help me live in a way that honors You and blesses those around me. May my heart seek Your glory above all else.
In Jesus’ name, Amen.

More: The Enemy Within - Sabbath School Lesson 6 - The Lessons of Faith from Joshua

Sabbath School Quarterly Online: The Lessons of Faith from Joshua