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. Numbers 14:8 (Chapters 13-14)
It was Moses’ plan to go straight from Sinai to Canaan. Arriving at the southern entrance, the people suggested the land be scouted. Moses obliged and sent men from each tribe. The spies brought back a discouraging report of gloom and doom. Walled cities and giants threatened their promise so they revolted and threatened Moses’ life. All they wanted was to return to Egypt, even if it meant slavery. Caleb and Joshua intervened and spoke the words above. (I encourage you to read verse 9 also.) All those who left Egypt, were witness to the miracles of God’s provision and protection, turned back into the desert and away from hope in their Faithful, Almighty God and His gift to them.
The glory of the LORD appeared to the Israelites and God spoke His plan to destroy all of these rebellious people. Moses, humble leader, stood between God’s anger and those who nearly killed him. He spoke God’s own words back to Him, vs. 18, and the LORD forgave. However, the opportunity for this entire generation to enter their homeland had come and gone. Only Caleb and Joshua, out of 600,000 men, will finally make it home.
Human nature is fear and distrust, but we must not be bound to our instincts. The three men who held themselves to the higher standard of faith and love of others were the game changers.
I understand fear. Struggling in faith is difficult, but these people let their fear turn to anger and anger into the sin of murder. Give your fears to the LORD. He wove you together, He will show you just how very strong you are if you will allow.
Love,
Gretchen