Numbers 13-14

Numbers 13-14

One of the most momentous events in the early history of Israel arrives just as they prepared to enter Canaan. Spies were sent out to find out if the people there were strong or weak, few or many, whether the land was rich or poor, good or bad. When ten of the twelve that were sent out came back with bleak reports on the land and its inhabitants, the rest of Israel became disheartened. However, two of the twelve tried to persuade them to place their faith in God, to do aside with their cowardice and place themselves completely in God's hands. The people became quite aggressive and hostile. Because they did not believe, God mandated that none of the fearful and faithless Israelites be allowed entrance into the Promised Land. Moreover, the Israelites were forced to roam the land for forty years.

It is easy to be afraid when we are placed in situations that seem to overpower us. So often we find ourselves roaming around, faithless, because we do not believe that all things can be conquered, or at the very least work together for a greater purpose. In my personal walk, I have found that taking that first step of faithfulness, is something we have to do on our own. God will not help us to take that first step; we have to do that ourselves. But when we do, when we finally say, "Jesus, take my life, take this situation that I am in and make it fit according to your will," we find that He is there.

The Israelites' inability to trust God completely was their downfall. Because they did not believe that the land before them was meant for them, they were unable to even see it. They were forced to roam about for forty years until death took hold of them. Yes, I know, this is an extreme form of punishment/consequence of their actions, and we probably won't have to roam for forty years in a wilderness; but every action we decide to take, or not take in their case, has to be placed completely in God's hands. We must stand up and be strong to say, "This doesn't look like it is going to be easy, but I can do anything because God is standing with me." His strength CAN be your own, His grace CAN be poured all over you, we just have to believe. Believe that He will conquer any obstacle in your life.

This week, as you battle through work, school, or any other activity, know that He is standing right beside you, all you have to do is walk in, be strong, and never lose faith that He is ALWAYS working through you.

ANALAURA.