NOVEMBER 23 - Wolves in the Hallway
3-Year-Bible Reading: Proverbs 28:15–16; Joshua 9–10
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3-Year Bible Devotional Book Available on Amazon
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“Like a roaring lion or a charging bear is a wicked ruler over a poor people. A ruler who lacks understanding is a cruel oppressor, but he who hates unjust gain will prolong his days.” — Proverbs 28:15–16
“So the men took some of their provisions, but did not ask counsel from the Lord.” — Joshua 9:14
“And the Lord threw them into a panic before Israel, who struck them with a great blow at Gibeon…” — Joshua 10:10
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Have you ever trusted someone and then realized they weren’t who they said they were? Maybe it was a friend who turned out to be fake, or someone online who seemed cool but wasn’t real with you. In Joshua 9, the Israelites get tricked by a group pretending to be travelers from far away—but they were actually neighbors trying to sneak into a peace treaty. Why did it work? Because Israel did not ask counsel from the Lord (Joshua 9:14).
In Proverbs 28, we’re warned about leaders who hurt others when they lack wisdom or act out of selfish ambition. Whether it’s in leadership, friendships, or decisions, not checking in with God can lead to big regrets. But even when we mess up, like Israel did, God still steps in when we call out to Him, just like He helped them in battle in Joshua 10.
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THINK ABOUT IT
1. Ask First: Are you making choices based on your own judgment, or are you inviting God into your decisions? Israel assumed they knew what was going on, but a quick prayer could’ve changed everything.
2. Recognize the Wolves: Not everyone who sounds wise or friendly is looking out for your best. How can you grow in wisdom to tell the difference?
3. God Still Shows Up: Even when we make mistakes, God can redeem the situation. Are you trusting Him to help you clean up the mess, or are you trying to handle it alone?
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BOTTOM LINE
Trusting God’s wisdom over your own instincts can protect you from being misled. Don’t skip the step of seeking His direction—He sees what you can’t.
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PRAYER
Heavenly Father, thank You for always being available to guide me. Help me to remember to ask You first when I’m facing decisions, even when they seem small. Give me wisdom to see through lies and courage to follow what’s right. Thank You for Your mercy, even when I mess up. In Jesus’ Name, Amen.
