Joshua 7-8
In defeating Jericho, Achan disobeyed the Lord’s command to not take any spoil. The sin of one man brought the Lord’s anger upon the entire people of Israel, causing them to be defeated against the city of Ai. After seeking the Lord, Joshua learns of the sin and obeys God’s command to resolve it. After killing Achan & his family, removing the sin, Israel is able to defeat Ai.
What we learn from this passage is that sin is not personal. We may think our sin does not affect others, but it does. Sin bleeds over and has an effect on those around us. We see this with Achan. Only one person sinned, but God said “Israel” had sinned. One person’s sin caused an entire nation to fall in battle, costing 36 people their lives. We must be mindful to walk in obedience to God’s commands. And we must also be quick to turn away from sin, knowing it has far reaching effects.
Do you see how your sin has affected others? What steps are you taking to keep sin out of your life?