In what ways can we "go up and take possession" in our lives? Setting the Scene “See, the LORD your God has set the land before you; go up and take possession of it, just as the LORD, the God of your fathers, has spoken to you. Do not fear or be dismayed.” (Deuteronomy 1:21) Israel stood on the edge of Canaan, invited to act on God’s clear promise. That same command—“go up and take possession”—echoes into our lives. God has prepared territory for each believer: spiritual growth, godly influence, kingdom service, freedom from sin. The call is not merely to admire these promises but to step into them. Recognize the Land God Has Already Set Before You • Salvation’s fullness (John 10:10) • Freedom from habitual sin (Romans 6:14) • Gifts and callings for ministry (1 Peter 4:10) • Peace that surpasses understanding (Philippians 4:6-7) • God-ordained good works (Ephesians 2:10) Identifying these areas clarifies where to advance rather than wandering aimlessly. Move Forward in Obedient Faith 1. Hear God’s Word • Israel had a direct command; we have Scripture—our sure foundation (Psalm 119:105). 2. Believe God’s Character • “Faithful is He who calls you, and He will do it.” (1 Thessalonians 5:24) 3. Act Accordingly • Noah built, Abraham left, Peter stepped out of the boat (Hebrews 11). • Obedience turns promises into present realities. Confront and Reject Paralyzing Fear • “Do not fear or be dismayed.” Fear kept the earlier generation out (Numbers 13:31-33). • Replace fear with truth from God’s Word (Isaiah 41:10). • Pray specifically when anxiety rises (Philippians 4:6). • Surround yourself with faith-filled voices—Joshua and Caleb, not ten doubters. Embrace Spiritual Warfare • Possession often involves battle: “Our struggle is not against flesh and blood” (Ephesians 6:12). – Put on the whole armor (Ephesians 6:13-17). – Use Scripture as the sword when temptations challenge your territory (Matthew 4:4,7,10). • Stand firm in Christ’s victory (Colossians 2:15). Step Into Your God-Given Identity • You are “a chosen people…that you may proclaim the virtues of Him” (1 Peter 2:9). • Possessing the land means living out who God says you are rather than past labels or failures. • Reject lies that belittle your calling (2 Corinthians 10:5). Cultivate Daily Reliance on the Spirit • Israel needed manna every morning; we need the Spirit’s filling (Ephesians 5:18). • Prayer, Scripture meditation, and fellowship refresh courage. • The Spirit empowers you to accomplish what flesh cannot (Zechariah 4:6). Exercise Stewardship Over Gained Ground • Joshua allotted land, then tribes had to settle and cultivate. • Guard progress through ongoing obedience (Galatians 5:1). • Use conquered territory to bless others—comfort with comfort received (2 Corinthians 1:4). Celebrate God’s Faithfulness • Memorial stones by the Jordan (Joshua 4) remind us to record victories. • Testimonies strengthen faith for the next hill. Practical “Go Up and Take Possession” Applications Today • Break a destructive habit: enlist accountability, memorize relevant verses, replace with godly practice. • Launch a ministry idea: seek counsel, start small, trust provision (Philippians 4:19). • Restore a broken relationship: initiate contact, offer forgiveness, lean on God’s grace (Colossians 3:13). • Pursue biblical literacy: set a reading plan, join a study group, apply truths immediately (James 1:22). • Step into vocational calling: pray, research, knock on doors, commit outcomes to God (Proverbs 3:5-6). Living the Command Today God still says, “See, I have set the land before you.” He sets, we step. When we trust His promises, silence fear, and move in obedience, we experience the joy of territory taken—life more abundant, influence for Christ, and glory to God. |
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