Reflection
Joshua 7 demonstrates not only the consequences of sin on a person, his family, and a whole community, but it speaks to the importance of accountability. God set up tribes not simply to be divisions of Israel but to be communities of accountability. In order to narrow down Israel to find the offending sinner, Joshua has all of Israel pass in front of him, then the Tribe of Judah, then the Zerahrites, the the family of Zimri, until he gets to Achan. It was a way of saying, “These are the people who should have been accountable” – starting with Achan and going all the way to Judah and all of Israel.
The purpose of accountability is not to show how we’re better than others, it’s not a way to pass judgment, but it’s a way to protect others and the community. When we confess our sins to each other, it helps us in breaking bondage of sin that we may be struggling with and gives us someone who can hold us accountable. But how can this happen? Does it happen on Sunday mornings? Generally no. These relationships of accountability can only happen in tight, trusting relationships. They don’t happen overnight. They happen as we build a relationship with a person and feel comfortable revealing some of our deepest struggles.
Prayer
Thank God for His amazing grace that makes us white as snow. Ask for forgiveness in areas of your life. If you don’t have an accountability partner, ask God to bring someone along so you can help each other in your spiritual walks. Ask God to help you identify and make connections with this person.