Trouble ahead

Only do not rebel against the LORD, nor fear the people of the land; . . . the Lord is with us. Do not fear them. — Numbers 14:9

Inevitably, trouble will invade our lives: A bad report from a medical test, the betrayal of a trusted friend, a child who rejects us, or a spouse who leaves us. The list of possibilities is long, but there are only two options: forge ahead on our own, or turn to God.

Flying solo into the face of trouble is not a good idea. It can lead to bad behavior patterns, blaming God, and retreating into defeat. Like the Israelites, we may spin out of control and into despair (Num. 14:1-4).

When the majority of the spies brought a report of intimidating giants and dangers ahead, they used the pronoun “we” seven times with no reference to the Lord (13:31-33). The Israelites were on the cusp of the ultimate blessing that God promised to them. They were eyewitnesses to the miracles in Egypt and their feet had walked the dry bottom of the Red Sea in jaw-dropping victory. God’s faithfulness had been amazingly evident. What short memories! What disappointing faithlessness! Sadly, they turned their backs on God and left the blessing behind.

Caleb and Joshua, on the other hand, opted to turn to the Lord with this confidence: “The LORD is with us” (14:9). When your giants show up, what will you do?    — Joe Stowell                           

In this world of sin and trouble

Where so many ills are known,

If I shun the ways of evil,

I am kept by Him alone. — Smith

READ: Numbers 13:25–14:9

God’s presence is a life preserver

that keeps the soul from sinking

in a sea of trouble.

The Bible in one year:

• Job 41-42

• Acts 16:22-40