How can we apply the spies' diligence in our daily spiritual walk? Setting the Scene “Then the two men set out and came down from the hill country, and they crossed the river. They came to Joshua son of Nun and reported everything that had happened to them.” (Joshua 2:23) The spies didn’t just scout Jericho and hide in the hills; they completed the assignment exactly as commanded, returned promptly, and gave a full, truthful report. Their diligence provides a pattern for everyday discipleship. What Diligence Looked Like in Joshua 2:23 • Obedient departure—left when Joshua sent them (Joshua 2:1) • Determined investigation—gathered facts despite danger • Safe return—crossed back without delay • Thorough reporting—“everything that had happened to them” • Faith–filled perspective—concluded, “the LORD has surely given the whole land into our hands” (Joshua 2:24) Principle 1: Finish What God Assigns • “It is required of stewards that they be found faithful.” (1 Corinthians 4:2) • Daily walk: Complete promises, vows, ministry tasks, even mundane chores. Half-finished obedience is disobedience. Principle 2: Move With Urgency and Purpose • The spies crossed back immediately. • “Make the most of every opportunity, because the days are evil.” (Ephesians 5:16) • Daily walk: Address sin quickly, reconcile relationships today, share the gospel when doors open. Principle 3: Give a Faithful Report • They shared facts without exaggeration and highlighted God’s work. • “Speak truth each one with his neighbor.” (Ephesians 4:25) • Daily walk: Honest conversations, testimony of God’s faithfulness, accountability with mentors. Principle 4: Stay Grounded in God’s Promises • Their confidence rested on God’s earlier word to Israel (Joshua 1:3). • “Faith comes by hearing, and hearing through the word of Christ.” (Romans 10:17) • Daily walk: Memorize Scripture, rehearse promises when fear rises. Principle 5: Persevere Through Risk • Hiding in the hills required courage and patience. • “Be steadfast, immovable, always abounding in the work of the Lord.” (1 Corinthians 15:58) • Daily walk: Endure criticism, spiritual warfare, or fatigue without quitting. Putting It Into Practice Today • Start each morning asking, “What assignment has God given me today?” • Schedule specific times for Scripture intake and prayer; guard them. • Keep a journal of God’s answers—your modern “report” of His faithfulness. • Seek a trusted believer to whom you give regular updates on your spiritual progress. • Celebrate completed tasks, then immediately ask the Lord for the next step. Verses to Keep Before Your Eyes • Proverbs 10:4 “Idle hands make one poor, but diligent hands bring wealth.” • Colossians 3:23 “Whatever you do, work at it with all your heart, as working for the Lord.” • James 1:22 “Be doers of the word, and not hearers only, deceiving yourselves.” • 2 Timothy 4:7 “I have fought the good fight, I have finished the course, I have kept the faith.” Follow the spies’ pattern: obey promptly, persevere fearlessly, and return with a testimony that glorifies God. |
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