What strategies can we use to trust God during trials, inspired by Numbers 21:1? Setting the Scene “Now when the Canaanite king of Arad, who lived in the Negev, heard that Israel was coming by the way of Atharim, he attacked Israel and took some captives.” (Numbers 21:1) The nation was minding its own business, traveling where God led, when an enemy struck without warning. Trials often arrive the same way—sudden, unprovoked, and painful. Why This Matters for Us Romans 15:4 reminds us that “everything that was written in the past was written for our instruction.” Israel’s encounter shows how to respond when life ambushes us. Strategy 1: Expect Trials Without Losing Heart • 1 Peter 4:12—“Beloved, do not be surprised at the fiery trial that has come upon you.” • Knowing hardship is normal keeps shock from morphing into despair. • When difficulties hit, say, “The Word said this would come; God will also provide the way through.” Strategy 2: Run to God First, Not Last • Israel’s very next move (vv. 2–3) was to cry out to the LORD. • Psalm 46:1—“God is our refuge and strength, an ever-present help in times of trouble.” • Make prayer the reflex, not the backup plan. Tell Him the need before you tell anyone else. Strategy 3: Anchor Your Heart in Past Deliverances • Rehearse victories: the Red Sea (Exodus 14), water from the rock (Numbers 20). • Personalize it—recall the surgeries, bills, or prodigal seasons He already carried you through. • Psalm 77:11—“I will remember the works of the LORD.” Memory fuels present faith. Strategy 4: Grab Hold of God’s Promises • Proverbs 3:5-6—“Trust in the LORD with all your heart…He will make your paths straight.” • Hebrews 10:23—“Let us hold resolutely to the hope we profess, for He who promised is faithful.” Practical tip: Write one promise on a card; carry it until the trial lifts. Strategy 5: Obey Whatever You Know to Do Right Now • Israel vowed full obedience (Numbers 21:2). • John 14:21—“Whoever has My commandments and keeps them is the one who loves Me.” • Even small steps (forgiving, tithing, serving) shout, “I trust Your character more than my crisis.” Strategy 6: Lean on God’s People • The nation faced the attack together; no lone rangers in the wilderness. • Galatians 6:2—“Carry one another’s burdens, and in this way you will fulfill the law of Christ.” • Share the load: ask for prayer, accept help, attend worship even when drained. Strategy 7: Choose Praise Before the Outcome • 2 Chronicles 20:22 shows victory arriving “as they began to sing and praise.” • Psalm 22:3—God is “enthroned on the praises of Israel.” Praise shifts focus from the size of the trial to the greatness of God. Putting It All Together 1. Anticipate hardship—don’t let it rattle you. 2. Pray immediately. 3. Remember past rescues. 4. Speak and meditate on specific promises. 5. Keep obeying in the small and obvious things. 6. Invite the community to stand with you. 7. Praise God now, not just after deliverance. The Outcome We Can Expect Israel’s cry was answered: “The LORD listened… and delivered up the Canaanites” (Numbers 21:3). Our circumstances differ, yet His faithfulness never does. Joshua 1:9 still stands: “Be strong and courageous… the LORD your God is with you wherever you go.” |
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