“Tendencies When Battles Come”
There are natural tendencies that surface when any one of us face a personal battle, giant, or impossible situation. I love the quote that says, “You have never tested God’s resources until you have attempted (or faced) the impossible.” There are many passages of scripture relating to the miracles of God, but one of my favorite stories is found Numbers 13 – 14.
The Israelites had followed Moses from Egypt to the Promised Land of Canaan. They are now camped near its border and a decision is made to send twelve spies to check out the land and bring back a report on their findings. Forty days later the committee returns with vote of 10 against going into Canaan and 2 for. They all agreed on the vastness of the territory and richness of its soil which would produce food. But there were also giants to be delt with. The report was filled with so much fear and negativity that it overwhelmed the crowd. Because of fear, they voted “Not” to enter the land. Here’s a few thoughts on their report.
The ten spies UNDERESTIMATED what God could do (13:25-29). They underestimated what THEY could do (13:30-33). The most critical thing was, they underestimated what their DECISION would do (14:1-4). This obviously wrong choice brought discouragement and discontent among the people and a defeatist attitude (14:1-4). As a result, the Israelites wandered 40 years in the wilderness and their decision resulted in an entire generation being lost.
The interesting thing in this story is that all 12 spies SAW the same things. Ten of them chose SECURITY over success and their influence won the vote. We must remember, when facing a challenge of any measure, there will be obstacles. We may be fearful and anxious. When the Israelites chose NOT TO ENTER the land, God allowed their choice to stand. He didn’t force them to continue on the path He had laid out for them. We too choose to follow or reject His plan.
What about the other two spies? Joshua and Caleb never flinched. They wanted to lead their people into the land despite the giants and anything else that may try to stop them. Where did they get their faith and confidence? Here’s the most important line you’ll read today: they trusted God! He had met their needs day by day since leaving Egypt, and HE HAD PROMISED TO LEAD THEM TO CANAAN!” They believed in God and believed in His promises. When faced with adversity and in need of a miracle, you too can always trust God’s promises. He’s with you, every single moment.
Pastor Carnes
