In what ways can we seek God's wisdom when feeling limited or constrained? Context of Joshua 17:14 “The sons of Joseph said to Joshua, ‘Why have you given us just one lot and one portion as an inheritance? We are a numerous people whom the LORD has blessed.’ ” Joseph’s descendants felt boxed in. Their population had outgrown their allotted space, and the terrain around them seemed too challenging to settle. Their situation mirrors times when we feel penned in by limited resources, energy, opportunity, or understanding. Recognize God’s Sufficiency • Limits expose our need for Him. • 2 Corinthians 12:9–10—His power “is perfected in weakness.” • Philippians 4:19—He supplies “all your needs according to His riches in glory.” • Begin by confessing, “Lord, You are enough even when I am not.” Ask for Wisdom Directly • James 1:5—“If any of you lacks wisdom, he should ask God, who gives generously… and it will be given to him.” • Pray specifically about the constraint; name it. • Expect a practical answer—God often guides through Scripture, inner conviction, and providential circumstances. Align Expectations with God’s Promises • Proverbs 3:5–6—Trust and acknowledge Him; He will “straighten your paths.” • Psalm 25:4–5—“Show me Your ways… teach me Your paths.” • Let His promises set the boundaries of your thinking rather than the visible limitations. Act on the Light You Have • Joshua answered Joseph’s tribes by instructing them to clear the forested hill country and drive out the Canaanites (Joshua 17:15,18). • Wisdom is often released as we obey the next clear step: – Clear the “forest” of procrastination or fear. – Push against entrenched obstacles—habits, opposition, doubt. • Proverbs 16:3—“Commit your works to the LORD and your plans will be established.” Cultivate Gratitude and Contentment • Philippians 4:6–7—Thanksgiving guards the heart with God’s peace. • 1 Timothy 6:6—“Godliness with contentment is great gain.” • Gratitude opens our eyes to current provisions we might overlook. Seek Godly Counsel • Proverbs 15:22—“Plans fail for lack of counsel, but with many advisers they succeed.” • Share the limitation with mature believers who can speak Scriptural truth and practical insight. • Ecclesiastes 4:9–10—Two are better than one for lifting each other up. Remember Past Deliverances • Deuteronomy 7:18—“Do not be afraid; remember well what the LORD your God did.” • Recalling God’s faithfulness fuels confidence that He will again supply wisdom. • Keep a journal of answered prayers and breakthrough moments as tangible reminders. Rest in the Bigger Story • Romans 8:28—All things work together for good to those who love God. • Constraints can become training grounds for future influence, just as Joseph’s confinement in Egypt prepared him to save nations. • Trust that today’s limits may be shaping tomorrow’s legacy. When you feel hemmed in, follow Joshua 17:14’s pattern in reverse: move from complaint to confident action by seeking God’s wisdom, trusting His sufficiency, and stepping forward in obedient faith. |
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