In what ways can we rely on God's strength when facing challenges? A Word from Joshua’s Ledger of Courage “Then Joshua said to the house of Joseph—to Ephraim and Manasseh— ‘You are numerous and very powerful; you will not have just one allotment.’” (Joshua 17:17) Seeing the Scene - The two tribes felt boxed in by Canaanite strongholds and dense forest. - Joshua shifted their focus from obstacles to God-given capacity: “You are numerous and very powerful.” - God was the true source of that power; their numbers only mattered because He stood behind them. Ways to Rely on God’s Strength When Challenges Loom - Remember the Identity He Assigns • Just as Joshua named Ephraim and Manasseh “numerous and powerful,” God calls us “more than conquerors” (Romans 8:37). • Accept His verdict over your own self-assessment. - Reclaim the Territory He Promises • The tribes still had forest to clear and hills to climb. God’s strength shows up while we move forward, not while we freeze in fear. • Step into responsibility with confidence that He equips (Hebrews 13:20-21). - Lean on His Presence, Not Personal Resources • “The LORD is my strength and my shield” (Psalm 28:7). • Personal skills are tools; His presence is the power flowing through them. - Trade Excuses for Expectation • Complaints about iron chariots (Joshua 17:16) gave way to faith-filled action once they heard God’s perspective. • Replace “I can’t” with “He can through me” (Philippians 4:13). - Draw Fresh Power Daily • “He gives power to the faint” (Isaiah 40:29). Yesterday’s victories do not fuel today’s battles; seek Him anew each morning. Supporting Verses That Echo Joshua 17:17 - Psalm 46:1 — “God is our refuge and strength, an ever-present help in times of trouble.” - 2 Chronicles 20:15 — “The battle is not yours, but God’s.” - 2 Corinthians 12:9 — “My grace is sufficient for you, for My power is perfected in weakness.” - Ephesians 6:10 — “Be strong in the Lord and in the power of His might.” Practical Steps for the Week Ahead - List one area where you feel “crowded” or under-resourced; thank God in advance for the extra allotment He will provide. - Read Isaiah 40 aloud each morning, underlining every verb describing God’s activity. - Tackle one intimidating task immediately after praying Philippians 4:13. - Share a testimony of God’s strength with a friend; speaking it reinforces belief. God’s allotment is larger than the obstacles. Move forward, clear the forests, and watch His strength carry you into the full inheritance He has promised. |
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