1. The Gibeonite ruse (1-15)

The inhabitants of Canaan came together to stop the Israelite invasion. But the Gibeonites did not join them because they heard what Joshua had done to Jericho and Ai, and they believed that God was with Israel. They feared for their lives, so they sent a delegation of men disguised to look as if they had come from a distant country. The Israelites did not pray about their request for peace--they tasted the moldy bread, believed the ruse and made a treaty.

2. Joshua honors the treaty (16-27)

When the Israelites heard that the Gibeonites did not live in a distant land, but were near neighbors who had tricked them, they were angry. But Joshua honored the treaty and protected the Gibeonites. Promises should not be made hastily--and when they are made, they should be kept. The Gibeonites were humble. They were willing to become menial servants in order to live among the people of God.

Application: Lord, help me to keep my promises, even when doing so is costly. Thank you for the privilege of living among God's people.
One Word: Pray first; keep promises