How can we assess the "land and its people" in our spiritual journey? Setting the Scene: Israel on the Edge of Promise “See what the land is like and whether the people who live there are strong or weak, few or many.” (Numbers 13:18) Moses’ scouts were told to gather facts, not to decide whether to obey. The land was already promised; their assessment would guide how the nation should advance in faith. Reading the Text Literally, Living It Practically • The command affirms that faith and careful observation belong together. • God never discourages honest appraisal; He forbids unbelief. • Our “land” is every sphere He calls us to occupy—family, vocation, ministry. • The “people” are those whose influence we will meet there—partners, opponents, mentors, culture. Why Evaluate the Land? Understanding God’s Gift • To recognize the goodness prepared for us (James 1:17). • To strategize wisely (Proverbs 21:5). • To expose obstacles needing faith, not fear (Psalm 18:29). • To avoid presumption—promises do not cancel the need for obedience (Deuteronomy 1:26-32). How to Assess the “Land” Today • Examine opportunities: Do they align with God’s revealed will (Colossians 3:17)? • Note resources: talents, time, finances God has placed in your hands (1 Peter 4:10). • Identify challenges: temptations, pressures, potential discouragement. • Keep the promise in view: God’s presence is the decisive factor (Joshua 1:9). How to Discern the “People” We Meet • Weigh their strength: Will they propel or hinder obedience (1 Corinthians 15:33)? • Count their number: Are godly allies sufficient, or must you build new partnerships (Ecclesiastes 4:9-12)? • Observe their fruit: “By their fruits you will recognize them” (Matthew 7:16). • Test their spirit: “Do not believe every spirit, but test the spirits” (1 John 4:1). Balancing Facts with Faith • Joshua and Caleb reported giants honestly yet proclaimed, “The LORD is with us” (Numbers 14:9). • Unbelief magnifies obstacles; faith measures them against God’s power (Psalm 27:1). • Remember past victories—“The LORD who rescued me… will rescue me” (1 Samuel 17:37). Tools for Spiritual Assessment 1. Scripture: the non-negotiable standard (Psalm 119:105). 2. Prayerful observation: ask God to open your eyes (Psalm 119:18). 3. Wise counsel: “Plans succeed through many advisers” (Proverbs 15:22). 4. Inner witness of the Spirit: “You will hear a voice behind you” (Isaiah 30:21). 5. Self-examination: “Test yourselves” (2 Corinthians 13:5). Outcomes: Walking Forward in Obedience • Move when God says go—delayed obedience invites defeat (Numbers 14:40-45). • Speak faith to others; your words shape the community’s courage (Hebrews 10:24-25). • Keep a testimony journal; tomorrow’s giants fall faster when reminded of yesterday’s manna. • Rest in His sovereignty: assessing the land prepares us, but conquering it is the Lord’s work (Zechariah 4:6). Assess diligently, believe boldly, advance obediently. |
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