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Faith over fear-A plan for moving forward

August 31st, 2010

JOHN SHIRK – Moving forward in God’s plan requires faith in His Word more than fear of unfavorable circumstances. In Numbers 13, the Israelites were faced with that choice.  Heed the voice of God or listen to their fears.

12 spies were sent out to explore the Promised Land. After 40 days of exploration, 10 of the spies came back with the report: We can’t attack these people; they are stronger than we are.” Joshua and Caleb dared to disagree.  They said, “The land we passed through and explored is exceedingly good. If the LORD is pleased with us, he will lead us into that land, a land flowing with milk and honey, and will give it to us. Only do not rebel against the LORD. And do not be afraid of the people of the land, because we will swallow them up.”

As it turned out, the people embraced the viewpoint of the 10 spies, and in their unbelief, that generation of adults perished in the desert with the exception of Joshua and Caleb.  They never made it to the Promised Land.  The people in Canaan were not the major hindrance for the Israelites.  Their lack of faith was.  God has a plan for our lives to glorify His name.  That plan is exceedingly good.  We can go forward with that plan by trusting and obeying God.  Our faith in God is strengthened when we remember His words and His miracles of the past.

That’s today’s Mission Statement for representing Jesus in the world today.

John Shirk

john@wjtl.com




  1. Jennifer
    August 31st, 2010 at 10:56 | #1

    I find this very difficult in the day to day. When you are stuck in the grind of cleaning…fighting with teens…working…. you (well, I) lose sight of ANY purpose to me being here, never mind a greater one. Working on it though!
    have a great day

  2. Terrence Rosario
    August 31st, 2010 at 18:59 | #2

    That’s good stuff I agree having faith in Gods word has to be our number priority as believers stay encouraged my brother in Christ Jesus

  3. Michael Oblender
    August 31st, 2010 at 21:17 | #3

    Today is isnt new lands to conquer, it’s the daily grind; the bills, the threat of foreclosure; job stress, worry, complaining. Jesus says speak His truth and His Grace, just as Joshua & Caleb did. Set your mind on His Word, lay the fear, stress and worry at the foot of the Cross where Jesus’ perfect work was fulfilled.

  4. Chris
    September 7th, 2010 at 11:54 | #4

    “If the LORD is pleased with us, he will lead us into that land”…

    Often the life of faith is a life that does not make sense. The first step like Peter took out of the boat is one that requires more faith than rational logic. Joshua & Caleb believed that God is good and they had experienced that goodness. In times when faith and logic collide I need to remember that God is good and has a proven track record!
    Thanks for the reminder!

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