Scripture: Num 13-14

Sometimes we are put through situations where we need to be vulnerable. At other times, we may face pain of different kinds: emotional, physical, etc. We must understand that it is God who allows these painful moments to occur to us. In these divine moments, we must learn to seize it. How we respond in these divine moments matter.

As true believers, we must respond to challenges with faith, and not fear.

1. Unfavourable Report

Num 13:26-33

a. Endorsed the Giants in the Land

• The land giant in prosperity (Num 13:23)
• The people giant in size (Num 13:33)

b. Endorsed the Smallness of their Faith

• The land devours the weak (Num 13:32)
• The people devour the small (Num 13:33)

2. The Favourable Report

a. Silenced the Negative (Num 13:30)

b. Declared the Positive

Num 14:7b-9

• Remember His Promise (Num 14:8)
• Remember His Presence (Num 14:9)

Jabez began life as an underdog, and was named in remembrance of great pain. Yet he responded desiring more of life and more of God. (1 Chr 4:9-10)

3. God's Appraisal of the Reports

A. The Unfavourable Report

• Their lack of faith completely shaped the history of Israel
• They spent the next forty years wandering in the desert

B. The Favourable Report

• Joshua was tasked to lead the next generation to the promised land
• Caleb received a special promise from God (Num 14:24)

Challenge

What is your response? May we respond favourably towards God as with Job (Job 13:15).