Spreading Cancers
Jos 17:12 Yet the children of Manasseh could not drive out the inhabitants of those cities; but the Canaanites would dwell in that land. 13 Yet it came to pass, when the children of Israel were waxen strong, that they put the Canaanites to tribute; but did not utterly drive them out.
Disobedience tends to be like cancer. Once it starts, it soon begins to spread and can become a new norm. We read that the Ephraimites could not drive out the Canaanites. We soon read in the following chapters that the children of Manasseh were also in a similar situation. They put the Canaanites to tribute – but that was not what the Lord instructed. Disobedience acts like a spreading cancer once unchecked.
Be careful of the familiar things that you observe and accept. Because a certain approach is popular and seems to work does not mean it pleases the Lord. Joshua we are not told corrected the tribe of Ephraim and the way of accommodating the inhabitants of Canaan soon became the norm. It is easier to do nothing. It is easier not to fight or confront that which is wrong. It is easier to simply embrace errors and popular methods. But when we go against the norm, we will soon hear … “but the blessed tribe of Ephraim, the leader’s tribe are doing it differently …” why do you want to do yours differently.
Leaders should be extra careful because they will be copied …what the leadership accepts will preach far more than what they teach. Like cancer, the error of compromise to accommodate the Canaanites soon began to spread. Watch out for things others – especially those in leadership do, that do not model Christ. Christ is our model and not any leader. Leaders, like any other men can be weak, tired and too intimidated to face certain issues. You must be ready to stand alone for what you believe in – contend for the faith. Still obey all the same …still fight even if you are alone and unaided …if the truth of God is your ally then God will fight with you. Like David fought Goliath alone when all the more capable and stronger warriors were in hiding …you will not run from battle …you will fight and you will win. Manasseh gave up quickly and accommodated what they were meant to drive out. What are you tolerating in your life that God wants you to deal with firmly. Do not delay another minute …drive out the Canaanite.
Song.
Jehovah is your name 4ce
Mighty warrior; Great in battle
Jehovah is your name.
Mighty warrior; Great in battle
Jehovah is your name.
The name, the name of Jesus. Is greater and higher than all names
It is not an ordinary name. It’s a name that’s full of power and praise.
At that name all sicknesses bow. Demons tremble at the sound of that name
It is not an ordinary name. It’s a name that’s full of power and praise..
Prayer : Father, I reject every Canaanite making itself useful to my flesh – I drive them all out … I walk out of every evil relationship. Amen.
The Songs of Joseph is an integration of encouragement scriptural devotions, prayers and a compendium of songs of mercy, salvation, new beginnings and victory. We can expect as we trust and obey that our end will indeed be ultimately glorious because God works His marvellous agenda. Be blessed as you read and sing along, daily. Edited by Bolade Apampa
