God's Timing on Stuff - the story of Achan

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But the Israelites acted unfaithfully in regard to the devoted things; Achan son of Carmi, the son of Zimri, the son of Zerah, of the tribe of Judah, took some of them. So the LORD's anger burned against Israel. (Joshua 7:1)

Back Story: As Joshua and the Israelites entered the Promised the Land, God had commanded them to destroy the city of Jericho, and any spoils of battle were to be devoted to the Lord, much like a "first fruits" type of offering for the first victory in the new land. One of the men, Achan, violated the 10th commandment by coveting a beautiful robe, some silver, and some gold, and he took these things and hid them in his tent. As a result, God became angry for Achan's disobedience and allowed Israel to be defeated at the Battle of Ai. As a result of his disobedience to God, Achan and his family were stoned to death and then their bodies and possessions were burned. Once Achan was punished for his sin, the nation of Israel was victorious in battle once again. Then at this point, God allowed the people to partake of the spoils of war.

Takeaway Lesson: From this story about Achan, we can apply the following key points today:

1. Offerings are sacred to the Lord. Do not withhold that which He has asked you to give back to Him.


2. Don't covet stuff that doesn't belong to you.


3. The cost of disobedience is high!


4. Obedience, patience, and God's timing will result in wealth. Don't get ahead of His timeline for your life.


5. God wants you to have some stuff. He wants to bring blessing and fulfillment into your life.


6. Victory is the result of obedience as well as through honoring the Lord with what is rightfully His.