How can we trust God's timing in our lives, as seen in Joshua 13:6? Setting the Scene Joshua, now advanced in years, has led Israel through many victories, yet large tracts of Canaan remain unconquered. Into that unfinished moment the Lord says: “All the inhabitants of the hill country from Lebanon to Misrephoth-maim—all the Sidonians—I Myself will drive out before the Israelites. Do only allot the land to Israel as an inheritance, as I have commanded you.” (Joshua 13:6) What God Reveals About Timing in Joshua 13:6 • God speaks of future action (“I Myself will drive out”) as a settled certainty. • Joshua’s present assignment (“allot the land”) does not wait for the final victory. • The promise rests on the Lord’s initiative—He, not Israel, sets the timetable. • Obedience in the meantime (“as I have commanded you”) is expected without delay. Why This Builds Confidence for Us 1. Promise and performance are inseparable because the Lord’s character is unchanging (Numbers 23:19). 2. He often calls His people to act in faith before circumstances look finished (Hebrews 11:1). 3. Divine delays are purposeful; they protect, prepare, and position us exactly where He intends (Deuteronomy 7:22). 4. God’s calendar is bigger than our snapshot; He alone “declares the end from the beginning” (Isaiah 46:10). Principles for Trusting God’s Timing Today • Remember who is responsible for the outcome. – “The battle belongs to the LORD” (1 Samuel 17:47). • Fulfill today’s clear commands even when tomorrow’s answers are unseen. – “Whatever He tells you, do it” (John 2:5). • Rest in the certainty that delay never equals neglect. – “My times are in Your hands” (Psalm 31:15). • Look to past faithfulness as evidence for future trust. – “Not one word has failed of all His good promises” (Joshua 23:14). Supporting Scriptures • Proverbs 3:5–6 — trust and acknowledge, and He makes paths straight. • Psalm 27:14 — wait for the LORD; be strong. • Habakkuk 2:3 — the vision awaits an appointed time; it will not delay. • Galatians 4:4 — in the fullness of time God sent His Son, proving perfect timing in redemption. Putting It into Practice • Identify the “allot the land” tasks—daily obediences you can complete now. • Surrender unresolved outcomes to the One who says, “I Myself will drive them out.” • Cultivate expectancy, not anxiety, knowing His schedule cannot falter. |
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