An Example of the Importance of Keeping our Promises and You (Joshua 9)

A very wise community humbled themselves before Joshua and the Israelites to make a convenant. They did also use deception, but the combination of humility and deceit saved their lives. They became servants as opposed to a slaughtered people. The most important point for the people of God is that we are to keep our word--it is an important part of being children of God. If Joshua had consulted God in prayer, however, they would not have fallen for the scam.

Joshua 9:19-20

New King James Version (NKJV)

19 Then all the rulers said to all the congregation, “We have sworn to them by the Lord God of Israel; now therefore, we may not touch them. 20 This we will do to them: We will let them live, lest wrath be upon us because of the oath which we swore to them.”