How can we trust God's promises like Israel trusted in Joshua 23:4? The Promise Stated Joshua 23:4: “See, I have allotted these remaining nations as an inheritance for your tribes, along with all the nations I have already destroyed—from the Jordan to the Great Sea in the west.” God declared the land theirs, and Israel stood on that literal promise. Evidence of God’s Faithfulness to Israel • Promise first given to Abraham (Genesis 12:7; 15:18–21). • Miraculous entry into Canaan: Jordan River parted (Joshua 3–4). • Jericho’s walls collapsed (Joshua 6). • Sun stood still, securing victory (Joshua 10:12–14). • Summary testimony: “Not one of all the LORD’s good promises to Israel failed; every one was fulfilled” (Joshua 21:43–45). Reasons His Promises Remain Trustworthy • God’s unchanging character: “God is not a man, that He should lie” (Numbers 23:19). • Absolute sovereignty: “Nothing is too difficult” (Jeremiah 32:17). • Covenant integrity: Same faithful God now relates through the New Covenant in Christ (Hebrews 8:6). • Christ seals every promise: “All the promises of God are ‘Yes’ in Christ” (2 Corinthians 1:20). • Historical record stands as objective proof (Joshua 23:14). Conditions for Enjoying the Promises • Obedience to God’s Word (Joshua 23:6; John 14:15). • Separation from idolatry and compromise (Joshua 23:7–8; 1 John 5:21). • Persevering loyalty: “Hold fast to the LORD your God” (Joshua 23:8). • Reverent fear of the Lord safeguards against drifting (Proverbs 14:26). Practical Ways to Trust Today 1. Remember His past works (Psalm 77:11–12). 2. Immerse in Scripture; faith grows by hearing (Romans 10:17). 3. Pray Scripture back to God, expecting literal fulfillment (Hebrews 10:23). 4. Act in obedience even while waiting (James 2:22). 5. Testify to fulfilled promises, strengthening others (Psalm 40:10). Key Promises to Stand On • Constant presence: “I am with you always” (Matthew 28:20). • Sustaining peace: “You will keep in perfect peace the steadfast mind” (Isaiah 26:3). • Daily provision: “My God will supply all your needs” (Philippians 4:19). • Eternal security: “Whoever believes has eternal life” (John 3:36). • Unfading inheritance: “An inheritance that can never perish” (1 Peter 1:4). Living Conclusion The same God who visibly handed Israel their inheritance in Joshua 23:4 continues to honor every word He has spoken. Trust grows as we recall His record, cling to His character, and align our lives with His commands, confident that not one promise will fail. |
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