Dear church, 

“… and Joshua cast lots for them in Shiloh before the Lord.” – Joshua 18:10

Christians no longer cast lots when we make big decisions. And we don’t put out fleeces either. We have something the saints of old did not have. We have the Holy Spirit. Jesus said the Holy Spirit – the “Helper” – is vitally important for the life of a Christian. “He will teach you all things” (John 14:26). And the Spirit lives inside each believer (John 14:17). We don’t need to look to things outside of us to learn God’s will. That comes from God living in us. 

But Joshua’s experience does give us instruction in how to make big decisions. Joshua made sure he went into God’s presence. The people set up the tabernacle at Shiloh. It was important to do this thing in the presence of God himself. Never lose sight of God’s presence in your life. 

Then the people considered the existing lay of the land. It was “subdued” before them. The land already belonged to the people. As you move forward with a big decision, pay attention to the existing state of affairs in your life. What is the reality of the situation?

Then Joshua sent out spies to bring back descriptions of the land. We imagine them telling Joshua about the seven portions of land for the remaining tribes. These were the possibilities. What are the possibilities as you consider your own big decision?

Then Joshua got into God’s presence and drew lots. Again, we don’t draw lots. We listen to the Holy Spirit. Take the reality of your situation, as well as the possible decisions you might make, into God’s presence. Typically, by the time you get there, you’ll have a pretty good idea which solution is the best – at least rationally. 

The final step is to listen to the Spirit in humility. He’ll show you the way to go (James 1:5).

Chris