Let us Avoid Unwise Practices When Making Choices (Joshua 24:14-24)
Introduction:
1. Before he died, Joshua called upon the Israelites to make a choice (vs.15). 2. The Israelites made the right choice when they said they would serve the Lord (vs.18b, 21, 24). 3. We have something in common with the Israelites -- we have to make choices, decisions, and judgments. 4. The Bible reveals many guidelines that will help us make good choices, good decisions, and good judgments. 5. This morning we considered 3 wise guidelines that we must follow. 6. This evening we are concentrating on 3 unwise practices we must avoid. 7. Unfortunately, the Israelites made many bad choices, bad decisions, and bad judgments. 8. We must avoid their mistakes. Discussion: I. FIRST, WHEN MAKING CHOICES, WE MUST AVOID FOLLOWING THE WILL OF THE MAJORITY
A. This guideline is addressed in Exodus 23:2. B. To illustrate, Aaron gave in to the will of the people when he made the golden calf (Exodus 32:1-6, 19-24, 35). C. Let us remember what Jesus said about the destiny of the majority at the judgment (Matthew 7:13-14). II. SECOND, WHEN MAKING CHOICES, WE MUST AVOID A HASTY SPIRIT
A. This guideline is addressed in Proverbs 25:8. B. To illustrate, Moses allowed a hasty spirit to cause him to strike the rock (Numbers 20:1-12). III. THIRD, WHEN MAKING CHOICES, WE MUST NOT OVERLOOK COUNSEL FROM GOD
A. This guideline is addressed in Isaiah 30:1-2. B. To illustrate, the Israelites did not seek counsel from God when they accepted the Gibeonites (Joshua 9:3-18). Conclusion:
1. When we make choices, decisions, and judgments,: a. let us avoid following the will of the majority b. let us avoid a hasty spirit c. let us not overlook counsel from God. 2. Positively,: a. let us seek wisdom from God b. let us trust in God completely c. let us talk to God through prayer.
