Strength & CourageSample

2 Against 10 

Moses, who led God’s people out of slavery in Egypt and then through the wilderness for 40 years, was dead. It was time for Joshua to lead. And it was time for God’s people to stop wandering and begin conquering. It was a time for strength and courage. 

Forty years before, Joshua and Caleb went with 10 other men to spy out the land God had promised them. When the spies returned with news of the abundance in the land, the ten spies convinced Israel that it was too dangerous, too terrible, and too hard to go into the land. Joshua and Caleb alone remembered that nothing is too difficult for God. They saw the same things but Joshua and Caleb had a totally different perspective. Now, all the other men had died and it was up to Joshua to lead a new generation of God’s people. 

Everything frightening and dangerous about the Promised Land was still true. It was still inhabited by fierce and terrifying warriors who would not relinquish their nations without a fight. Long and difficult battles were certain. There would be loss, exhaustion, pain, and fatigue. 

But God’s people were different. They were ready to trust. They’d spent 40 years moving when He said to go and waiting when He said to stop. God’s people were ready to follow Him, and Joshua was the leader He’d been preparing. 

Live it Out 

1. In what area of your life do you need the Spirit to give you strength and courage? Have you asked Him to help you? Ask Him now. 
2. How do your practice obedience? When God leads, do you resist, question Him, or refuse outright, or do you know His voice and trust Him enough to obey? 
3. Do you feel like God has been preparing you for His plans and purposes? Consider some of your life experiences that have led you to this moment and ask Him what His next steps for you might be.