Jos 9:21 | MHM | STEP | v. 21 : The leaders decided to let the Gibeonites live, but they made them servants—woodcutters and water carriers for the people of Israel ( v. 21 ). This helped calm the people’s anger. Some were satisfied because the Gibeonites would serve Israel, and others saw that this would benefit everyone. Summary and Lesson : The leaders kept their promise, even though it was made under false pretenses. This showed respect for God and for the seriousness of making an oath (Psalm 15:4 ). God was pleased with their decision, and later helped Israel win a great victory when they defended the Gibeonites ( ch. 10 ). Breaking promises is wrong, even if others have lied to us, and honesty in our words and actions is always important (2 Samuel 21:1 ).

‏ Joshua 9:21

v. 21: The leaders decided to let the Gibeonites live, but they made them servants—woodcutters and water carriers for the people of Israel (v. 21 ^a). This helped calm the people’s anger. Some were satisfied because the Gibeonites would serve Israel, and others saw that this would benefit everyone.

Summary and Lesson: The leaders kept their promise, even though it was made under false pretenses. This showed respect for God and for the seriousness of making an oath (Psalm 15:4 ^b). God was pleased with their decision, and later helped Israel win a great victory when they defended the Gibeonites (ch. 10 ^c). Breaking promises is wrong, even if others have lied to us, and honesty in our words and actions is always important (2 Samuel 21:1 ^d).