Align Your Words With God’s Words!

How could the twelve leaders scout the same land and have different reports?

Ten doubting leaders: “We can’t go up against them! They are stronger than we are!” (Numbers 13:31, NLT).

The doubting leaders’ report caused despair among the people. They complained, “Why is the Lord taking us to this country only to have us die in battle?” “Wouldn’t it be better for us to return to Egypt?” “Let’s appoint a new leader and return to Egypt!” (Numbers 14:3–4, NLT).

Sensing the need to refocus the people on God’s ability and advocacy, Joshua and Caleb strove to encourage the people with faith-filled words.

Joshua and Caleb: “Do not rebel against the LORD, and don’t be afraid of the people of the land. They are only helpless prey to us! They have no protection, but the Lord is with us! Don’t be afraid of them!” (Numbers 14:9, NLT).

Reflection.

The leaders’ words provoked profound consequences. “I will do to you the very things I heard you say,” God declared. “Because you complained against me, everyone who is twenty years old or older and was included in the registration will die. You will not enter and occupy the land I swore to give you. The only exceptions will be Caleb, son of Jephunneh, and Joshua, son of Nun” (Numbers 14:28–30, NLT).

The adults ate the fruits of their words. These consequences also bore witness to the power of words (Proverbs 18:21 and Matthew 12:37).

Encouragement.

Trust God and His faithfulness! As a child of God, always remember that God will never abandon you. He is your protector, defender, provider, and all that you need Him to be (Exodus 3:14). God is no respecter of persons (Acts 10:34). Take the words God spoke to Joshua as God speaking to you: “Just as I was [present] with Moses, so will I be with you; I will not fail you or abandon you” (Joshua 1:5, AMP).

Remember the omnipotence of God’s word (Isaiah 40:8 and Matthew 24:35) and choose to believe and say what He says! Just like Caleb and Joshua, we can speak faith-filled words in the face of our challenges.

Congratulations on completing this plan! Regardless of your circumstances, may you be swift to Use Your Words to glorify God. Want to be further encouraged? Please sign up here to hear Dr. Foster’s message on God’s promotion of Joshua and encouragement to us.