How can we trust God's promises today, as seen in Joshua 13:5? Setting the scene Joshua 13 opens with Israel settled in much of the promised land, yet some areas remain unconquered. Rather than seeing this as unfinished business, the Lord lists every remaining territory, underscoring that none of His promises have slipped through the cracks. What Joshua 13:5 says “the land of the Gebalites, and all Lebanon toward the sunrise, from Baal-gad below Mount Hermon to Lebo-hamath.” The faithfulness behind the borders • A literal boundary list proves God’s promises are concrete, not symbolic or vague. • Every location named still awaited Israel’s possession, showing God’s commitment to complete what He had started (Philippians 1:6). • This precise description affirms that the Lord’s Word is historically reliable and geographically verifiable. Why these ancient borders boost present-day faith • Promises made centuries earlier remained intact; time does not erode divine commitments (2 Peter 3:9). • God expected Israel to move forward because He Himself guaranteed the outcome. That same guarantee applies to every word He has spoken to believers today (Hebrews 10:23). • The unclaimed land serves as a reminder that God’s faithfulness is not limited to what we already see. Future fulfillment is certain because His character is unchanging (Malachi 3:6). Scriptural pillars that reinforce trust • Joshua 21:45 – “Not one of all the LORD’s good promises ... failed; everything was fulfilled.” • Numbers 23:19 – “Does He speak and not act? Does He promise and not fulfill?” • 2 Corinthians 1:20 – “For all the promises of God are Yes in Christ.” • Hebrews 6:18-19 – It is impossible for God to lie, giving strong encouragement and an anchor for the soul. • Romans 15:4 – The record of past fulfillments fuels present hope. Practical ways to hold onto God’s promises today • Read promises in context, noting their original setting just as Joshua 13:5 lists real places. • Remember past faithfulness—both biblical examples and personal experiences—so today’s waiting seasons are framed by yesterday’s victories. • Speak Scripture aloud; hearing truth reinforces certainty. • Align choices with what God has said, expecting Him to act consistently with His Word. • Share testimonies of fulfilled promises, strengthening the faith of others and your own. |
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