Choices

“A land filled with strong cities and giants! We will surely die!” The Israelites were at the edge of the land promised to them hundreds of years before. They had been living on manna for over a year and finally were given the chance to eat real food again. But they couldn’t get over the report of the spies who had gone into the land, it was a good land but Oh so scary!
 
They were given a choice: trust God to bring them safely into the Promised Land or believe that God couldn’t do it. So naturally, these people who had seen God’s glory with their very own eyes decided…“I’m too scared, I’m not trusting you.” They chose the wilderness because it was something they knew. And you know what happen, God said, “You want to stay in the wilderness? Then I will allow you to have exactly what you are asking for.” And this started the 40 years of wandering around in circles. Grumble and complain, complain and grumble. That was the refrain of God’s people.
 
The Israelites failed to occupy the Promised Land because they were afraid. But I wonder if I was there, would I have been afraid? How many times have you or I failed to occupy the Promises that God has set aside for us? How many times have we lived in a wilderness, potentially of our own making? Sure God provides during it, but we aren’t thriving. As you read chapter 6 this week, ask God to help you know how to live life fully, accepting His word of promise in your life.

​Ivan