Be Mindful of the Exceptions

Be Mindful of the Exceptions

“Joshua came out at that time also to root out the Anakim from the hills—from Hebron, Debir, Anab, from the mountains of Judah and the mountains of Israel. Joshua carried out the holy curse on them and their cities. No Anakim were left in the land of the people of Israel, except in Gaza, Gath, and Ashdod; a few were left there.”
(Joshua 11:21–22)

Most people stumble, not because they do not know the rule, but because they ignore the exceptions. An exception means the norm is suspended in a particular area, and if it is left unchecked, it often becomes a future problem.

This is clearly seen in our text. Joshua successfully rooted out the Anakim—the giant-like people—from the land of Israel. Scripture records a great victory: no Anakim were left. Then comes the warning word—except. A few were spared in Gaza, Gath, and Ashdod.

Years later, one of those “exceptions” resurfaced as a major threat. From Gath emerged Goliath, a giant who terrorized Israel.

“A giant nearly ten feet tall stepped out from the Philistine line into the open—Goliath from Gath.” (1 Samuel 17:4)

What was left undone in one generation became a serious challenge in another. This teaches us a sobering lesson: exceptions we tolerate today can become battles our future must fight.

The same principle appears in the life of Naaman, the great general of Aram. Scripture introduces him with honor, but also with an exception:

“Naaman was commander of the army of the king of Aram. He was a great man in the sight of his master and highly regarded, because through him the LORD had given victory to Aram. He was a valiant soldier, but he had leprosy.” (2 Kings 5:1)

Naaman’s “but” was his exception. To his credit, he did not ignore it. Though proud and powerful, he humbled himself, obeyed God’s word, and dipped in the River Jordan—despite his initial resistance. In dealing with his exception, he secured his healing and restoration.

Be mindful of the exceptions. I do not know what represents an exception in your life—an unchecked habit, a compromise, a hidden weakness, or a delayed obedience—but deal with it now, for the sake of your future.

Reflection
Victory is often incomplete when exceptions are tolerated. What we excuse today may confront us tomorrow with greater force. God’s instruction is not only to win battles, but to finish the work. Wisdom lies in identifying and addressing the “excepts” and “buts” in our lives before they grow into giants.

Prayer
Father, thank You for Your word that brings light and correction. Open my eyes to see the exceptions I have overlooked or tolerated. Give me the courage and humility to deal with them according to Your will. Help me to finish the work You have committed into my hands, so my future will not be threatened by unresolved issues. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

Have a fruitful day,
(Dr.) Emmanuel Okoro
(aka Dr. Lift).

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