Then Joshua and all Israel took Achan, son of Zerah, along with the silver, the robe, the bar of gold, his sons, daughters, oxen, donkeys, sheep, tent, and all that belonged to him and brought them up to the Valley of Disaster. Joshua 7.24
You often hear a person say, “What I do doesn’t hurt anyone else.” It is usually an excuse to do something wrong. It is also not a true statement.
God had given Jericho to Joshua and the Israelites. They were told not to keep anything for themselves. Everything in Jericho was to be set apart for the Lord. They were warned that if they did take anything, it would make the Israelite camp subject to annihilation and cause a disaster. All the silver, gold, bronze and iron items had to go into the Lord’s treasury, Joshua 6.18-19.
But Achan disobeyed and stole some of the riches and it made the Lord furious, Joshua 7.1. Not knowing, Joshua sent men to Ai to spy out the situation. They returned reporting that only two or three thousand men were needed to conquer Ai because it was small. However, the Israelites fled before the men of Ai. Joshua and the leaders of the people mourned before the Lord, questioning why God had brought them across the Jordan.
God’s response was for them to get up. Israel had sinned and violated the covenant they had made. They were subject to annihilation. God would not be with them unless they destroyed what had contaminated them, Joshua 7.12. They were to pass before the Lord and the one who had taken the riches would be selected. Achan was selected. He confessed what he had done and told Joshua where he had hidden the items.
Not only did Achan’s sin affect the Israelite army who went up to fight against Ai, it also affected his immediate family and belongings. He and his family were stoned to death. The result of his sin caused many to lose their lives and suffer.
The next time that you are tempted to do something that is wrong, remember that your actions could have far-reaching effects. It could cause suffering to those that you love and cherish. It will also separate you from God. Not only will it hurt you, it will also hurt those around you. Make the right choice.