This statement was probably more of a polite form of address rather than a sincere declaration of their submission (see Gen. 32:4, 18; 50:18; 2 Kings 10:5; 16:7). However, it was calculated to impress Israel. The Gibeonites, no doubt, expected to make some concession such as paying tribute, but they hoped that the contract would be as favorable as possible. Nevertheless, their carefully worded reply did not satisfy Joshua, as is clear from the questions he continued to direct at them. At this moment of doubt and uncertainty he should have sought the Lord. He probably felt as many Christians do today, that here was a matter he could handle without troubling the Lord. But God has bidden us to come to Him with all of our problems. We are not to feel that we weary or burden Him. Many pitfalls might be avoided by taking all our problems to the Lord, not trusting to our own understanding (Prov. 3:5-7).