Consequences

"He shall dwell in that city until he stands before the congregation for judgment, until the death of the one who is high priest in those days. Then the manslayer shall return to his own city and to his own house, to the city from which he fled." -Joshua 20.6

I really hope this is the last chapter that talks about cities of refuge. They were something God set up to protect people who had committed manslaughter, not murder, from being killed for an accident. They show God's justice and protection against things that aren't intentional or premeditated. However, it is important to note that every action, whether intentional or accidental, brings consequences.

A person could flee to a city of refuge to be saved from an unjust punishment. In that time they had to live in the city, away from their home and family. Even though the action was accidental, there were still consequences that had to be faced. An accident did not permit someone to get off easy. God set up a place for their life to be saved, but it didn't mean everything went back to normal.

Men, let us face the consequences of our actions. When we make a choice, own the outcome. When we act, own the result. Don't try to pass it off on someone else to try and get things to go back to normal for you, man up and deal with the consequences that you have brought on with your decision. It may mean life being inconvenient or uncomfortable for a while, but part of being a man is about taking responsibility.

Let us be men who own our decisions and live with the consequences.

"Iron sharpens iron, so one man sharpens another."

To God alone be the Glory!

Strength and Honor