Joshua 7 illustrates vividly how the actions of a person can affect the actions of a nation. This first recorded loss for of a battle for Israel during their journey to the promised land is an example of how important it is to follow God's instructions. It also points out how long-suffering and merciful God is. God went through a tortuous process to find out the culprit thereby extending grace and giving the sinner time to process their acts and come to repentance. Don't be the bad apple that spoils the whole bunch. Repent and be saved.