In today's reading, the children of Israel have finally made it to the border of the promised land, and Moses sends out 12 spies to see the land.
When they come back, they come back laden with grapes and fruit, and with a report of how wonderful the land is. Joshua and Caleb are eager to go take the land that God has given them. But the other 10 spies, protest. "The land may be wonderful--truly a land flowing with milk and honey. BUT.... people are too strong for us. There are giants, and their cities are fortified! We are not able to overcome them." And of course the children of Israel, side with the 10 spies. Once again, their faith falters.
What really strikes me every time I read this story is the importance of talking faith. The children of Israel spoke doubt, and God responded: “So the Lord said, as ye have spoken in my ears, so shall I do to you.” Numbers 14:28
How tragic! They were just at the border....and they couldn't go in because of their doubt!
Inspiration tells us, “In their unbelief [Israel] limited the power of God and distrusted the hand that had hitherto safely guided them.” Patriarchs & Prophets, p. 388
We are also admonished: “Talk and act as if your faith was invincible. The Lord is rich in resources; He owns the world. Look heavenward in faith.” Christ Object Lessons, p. 146
“Never give place to a thought of discouragement in the work of God. Never utter a word of doubt.”
Evangelism, p. 633
They didn't talk faith or act in faith, and because of that, they had to wait yet ANOTHER 40 years, before their children could enter the land. I pray that we can learn from their mistake and not hold back our entrance to the Kingdom of Heaven because of speaking and thinking and acting in doubt.
I believe Lord, help thou my unbelief!
Tomorrow's Reading: Number 15-16 and Acts 18
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