I have seldom been one who liked to read instructions. The instructions to my multi-function wrist-watch were too long and the pictures didn’t make sense. It was easier to begin pushing buttons until I found what each controlled. The watch likely has features I have not used but I know how to use the ones I need.
I could never follow the written instructions for setting the clock on the VCR but after hitting a few buttons was able to set the time just fine. I recently had to change the head lamp in my car. For this, I read the instructions. I followed them to the letter (I thought) but could not remove the old light. I took it to a dealership. The service manager gave me further instructions which made no sense at all. I finally went back to the manual – carefully step-by-step following the instructions and it worked.
I do understand the value of following instructions. I suppose it is a form of arrogance to think I can do things without the help of a manufacturer.
Unfortunately, I carry that arrogance into my relationship with God. I wonder if I would have been as careful as Joshua in following the directions for taking Jericho. Such detail – march, blow trumpets once each day for 6 days and then on the 7th march around 7 times, blow trumpets and shout. Oh, and by the way, when the walls come down, don’t take any plunder.
Why not shout on the other 6 days – if it works on the 7th, why not do it earlier? Why not march 7 times the first day and shout and get done sooner? No plunder? What is the value of winning if there is not something to take home – some trophy? Something to boast about?
As I look at the story – and I know of those who have tried to figure scientifically the impact on the walls of Jericho, of the people marching, the horns blowing and the shouts – it is about God.
He could have knocked the walls down in a moment. This was an issue of obedience, faith, and honor.
Would they obey God – even in what seemed unusual? Did they trust Him that the walls would come down and did they trust Him that they didn’t need the plunder – that He would provide for them. Would they honor Him by not needing anything to boast in except in Him.
I know there are time when I want to boast in accomplishments – take the plunder – instead of giving all the glory to God. There are times when I think I need the accolades so that others know my value. There are times when I resist certain promptings of the Spirit – what might people think?
We all face Jericho’s in our lives – God has the battle plan. The only way to sure victory is to follow explicitly.
