* Using past experience to make an informed decision is very wise.

* But using experience as your guide is a recipe for disaster.

* We need to operate out of obedience, not experience.

* Experience told Ai’s king that he had defeated the Israelites once before and it would happen again.

* Based upon experience alone he made a decision that ended in total destruction.

* Putting ourselves in the same scenario in the present context, when a situation arises we should:

* 1) Recognize what has happened in the past that would help us make an informed decision in the present.

* ** “recognize” **

* 2) Ask God what He’s saying and listen intently.

* Get alone, clear the clutter, deal with sin, fast, pray, etc.

* 3) Obey God’s voice, whatever the cost.

* The key is to focus on obedience “whatever the cost,” regardless of your past experience.