Joshua 9

Insight

In Joshua 9, the Gibeonites use "cunning" to secure a pact with Joshua. They play on his expectations, dressing in rags to appear like weary travelers from a distant land. The tragedy? The text explicitly notes that the leaders "did not inquire of God." As parents, we often rush to judgment or react to the "worn-out clothes" of our children’s behavior—the meltdowns, the backtalk, the messy room—without pausing to ask, "What is really going on here?" We often act on the surface-level presentation rather than stopping to consult our intuition or the "Higher Wisdom" of patience.

Text Snapshot

"Those involved took [their word for it] because of their provisions, and did not inquire of God." (Joshua 9:14)

Activity: The 3-Second "Pause Button"

Next time your child demands, refuses, or "disguises" their true feelings with an outburst, commit to a 10-minute "inquiry" break.

1. The Pause: Physically step back or take a breath.
2. The Question: Ask yourself, "Am I reacting to the 'worn-out clothes' (the yelling/mess), or can I look beneath to see the fear or need underneath?"
3. The Pivot: Instead of immediate discipline, say, "I see you’re having a hard time. Let’s sit for a moment before we decide what to do next."

Script: When They Are "Tricky"

Child: "I already finished my homework!" (When you suspect they haven't.) You: "I’m choosing to trust you, but I feel a little uneasy. Let’s look at it together just to be sure we’re on the same page. If it’s done, we’re done! If not, we’ll tackle it as a team."

Habit: The Daily Huddle

Before you walk through the door after work/school, set a one-minute timer to "consult the source." Ask for the wisdom to see your children's hearts, not just their behavior, before the evening chaos begins.

Takeaway

Don't be a hero who acts on appearances. Take the extra minute to inquire—of yourself, of them, and of your values—before settling the matter. Good-enough parenting is parenting that pauses.