What does "the LORD is pleased with us" reveal about God's favor? Setting the Scene Numbers 14:8: “If the LORD is pleased with us, He will bring us into this land—a land flowing with milk and honey—and He will give it to us.” Joshua and Caleb have just returned from scouting Canaan. Ten other spies spread fear, but these two men anchor their confidence in one truth: God’s pleasure determines Israel’s future. Their statement becomes a window into the nature of divine favor. Key Insights from the Phrase • God’s favor is personal—“the LORD is pleased with us,” not merely with an abstract plan. • His favor is decisive—if He delights in His people, the promised outcome is guaranteed. • Favor is covenantal—rooted in God’s prior promise to Abraham (Genesis 17:7-8). • It is proactive—God doesn’t simply approve; He “will bring us” and “will give” the land. What God’s Favor Looks Like 1. Provision • “He will bring us into this land” – tangible guidance (Psalm 23:1-3). • “A land flowing with milk and honey” – abundant supply (Philippians 4:19). 2. Protection • The Lord’s pleasure shields from threats (Psalm 5:12: “You surround them with favor as a shield”). • Even giants and fortified cities cannot override divine delight. 3. Promised Inheritance • Favor secures what human strength cannot (Deuteronomy 6:10-11). • God’s pleasure turns promise into possession (Joshua 21:45). Conditions That Invite His Pleasure • Trusting obedience—Joshua and Caleb “followed the LORD fully” (Numbers 32:12). • Wholehearted faith—“Without faith it is impossible to please God” (Hebrews 11:6). • Fear of the LORD—“The LORD is pleased with those who fear Him” (Psalm 147:11). • Walking in wisdom—“Whoever finds me finds life and obtains favor from the LORD” (Proverbs 8:35). Contrasts: When Favor Is Hindered • Israel’s refusal to enter the land provoked God’s displeasure (Numbers 14:22-23). • Sin and unbelief lead to discipline, not delight (Psalm 78:40-41). How This Shapes Our Walk Today • Confidence: God’s favor still opens doors no human can shut (Revelation 3:7-8). • Courage: Opposition loses its power when we stand in His pleasure (Romans 8:31). • Commitment: Pursuing obedience is the pathway to experiencing His delight daily (John 14:21). Takeaway “The LORD is pleased with us” assures every believer that divine favor is real, relational, and reliable. When God delights in His people, He faithfully provides, protects, and brings them into every promise He has spoken. |
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