In what ways can we trust God when facing obstacles, as seen in Joshua 2:7? Setting the Scene “So the men pursued them along the road to the fords of the Jordan; and as soon as the pursuers had gone out, the gate was shut.” (Joshua 2:7) What the Shut Gate Teaches About Trust • God’s providence operates while the enemy is active. The pursuers move, yet the Lord is already arranging the spies’ escape. • The timing of the gate’s closure proves divine precision. Nothing is left to chance; the moment the threat leaves, protection is established. • A physical barrier can become spiritual assurance. What seems to imprison (a shut gate) actually preserves those who belong to God. Ways to Trust God When Gates Close 1. Trust His unseen movements – He is working behind the scenes even when circumstances appear hostile (2 Kings 6:17). 2. Trust His perfect timing – “At the acceptable time I listened to you” (2 Corinthians 6:2). He acts neither early nor late. 3. Trust His sovereign control of every detail – “The steps of a man are ordered by the LORD” (Psalm 37:23). 4. Trust His use of unlikely instruments – Rahab, a Canaanite woman, becomes God’s agent of deliverance (Hebrews 11:31). 5. Trust His commitment to covenant promises – The spies represented Israel’s conquest promise; God guards what He has pledged (Joshua 1:3). 6. Trust His ability to turn barriers into blessings – Later, Jericho’s walls fall by His command (Joshua 6:20), echoing the shut gate’s lesson that no structure can outmatch His power. 7. Trust His provision of escape – “God is faithful…with the temptation He will also provide a way of escape” (1 Corinthians 10:13). Supporting Passages to Anchor Confidence • Proverbs 3:5–6—rely, do not lean on understanding; He makes paths straight. • Isaiah 26:4—“Trust in the LORD forever, for the LORD GOD is an everlasting rock.” • Psalm 34:7—the Angel of the LORD encamps around those who fear Him. Living Out This Trust Today • A closed door, lost opportunity, or daunting diagnosis can feel like Jericho’s gate. Stand firm, believing every detail is under God’s hand. • Look for God-appointed “Rahabs”—unexpected people or means He raises up for your good. • Mark moments of precise timing in your life; rehearse them often to strengthen future faith. Conclusion: Obstacles Become Opportunities Joshua 2:7 invites believers to see every barrier as a stage for God’s faithfulness. When the gate slams shut, we trust the One who never does. |
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