In what ways can we trust God to overcome obstacles in our lives? Setting the Scene: God’s Proven Power “This was after he had defeated Sihon king of the Amorites, who lived in Heshbon, and at Edrei had defeated Og king of Bashan, who reigned in Ashtaroth.” Sihon and Og were formidable, fortified kings blocking Israel’s path into the Promised Land. Moses highlights their defeat to remind the new generation that the greatest obstacles fall before the living God. Lessons from Sihon and Og • Obstacles may look permanent, yet they stand no chance against God’s decree. • Victory came before Israel even crossed the Jordan—proof that God works ahead of His people. • These historical acts set the precedent: what God starts, He finishes (cf. Joshua 21:45). God’s Track Record Encourages Present Trust • Psalm 77:11 — “I will remember the works of the LORD; yes, I will remember Your wonders of old.” • Hebrews 13:8 — “Jesus Christ is the same yesterday and today and forever.” • Psalm 33:4 — “For the word of the LORD is upright, and all His work is trustworthy.” Five Ways to Trust God Through Today’s Obstacles 1. Remember past victories – Personal testimonies and biblical history reinforce faith (Exodus 14:13-14). 2. Stand on His promises – Isaiah 41:10; Jeremiah 32:17 show nothing is too hard for Him. 3. Obey even when the path looks blocked – James 1:22 calls for active faith; Israel still marched toward the Jordan while giants remained. 4. Pray instead of panicking – Philippians 4:6-7 shifts focus from the size of the problem to the peace of God. 5. Hold the line in faith – Ephesians 6:13 urges us to “stand” after doing all; God handles the outcome. Everyday Obstacles God Overcomes • Fear of the future — Romans 8:31-32 • Financial need — Philippians 4:19 • Relational tensions — 1 Peter 5:7 • Spiritual warfare — Psalm 46:1 Reinforcing Examples Across Scripture • Red Sea parted (Exodus 14) – God turns dead ends into highways. • Jericho’s walls (Joshua 6) – Impossible barriers crumble at His word. • David vs. Goliath (1 Samuel 17:47) – Size means nothing when the battle belongs to the LORD. • Jehoshaphat’s choir-led victory (2 Chronicles 20:15-22) – Praise becomes a weapon. Living It Out Today • Identify the “Sihon” or “Og” in your life—a habit, debt, diagnosis, or fear. • Recall at least one past moment where God clearly provided or delivered you. • Speak His promises aloud; they are as reliable now as when first given. • Act in obedience, even if only the next small step is visible. • Expect God to work in ways that showcase His glory and reassure His people. Closing Thought: The Same God Still Leads The God who toppled Sihon and Og stands unchanged, undefeated, and fully committed to those who trust Him. Obstacles bow to His authority; our part is to remember, believe, and move forward in confident obedience. |
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