Filled to Serve: Embracing the Holy Spirit’s Work in You
Deut. 1:1-2, 21-46
As we cross into the month of July, we have finished the first half of 2024. We are in difficult times, impacted by the ever-changing, volatile global situation daily. I believe that more challenging times are yet to come as we journey towards the return of our Lord. This is not a statement of despair but a call to strengthen our faith. We can find hope and stability in the unwavering promises of God. He remains faithful even when we face our doubts and fears.
Just as the Israelites faced struggles on their journey to the Promised Land, we too will face difficulties in our journey ahead. Their unwavering faith served as their compass, and similarly, our faith in Christ anchors us in our Christian walk.
By putting our hope in Him, we are reminded that He keeps His promises to those who trust in Him. This unwavering faith becomes our foundation, allowing us to navigate life’s challenges with strength and resilience.
Challenges are inevitable, but we don’t face them alone. The Israelites’ story provides two essential anchors during life’s storms:
1. A Faithful God Who Keeps His Promises
God gave His promises to His people that He is a God who is faithful to them. He never leaves us or forsakes us. A nation surrounded by enemies and lacking everything in the desert would have the utmost fear, yet God showed up and gave His promises to His people in this journey of faith.
“Know therefore that the Lord your God is God; he is the faithful God, keeping his covenant of love to a thousand generations of those who love him and keep his commandments.” ‒ Deut. 7:9
“I will give you every place where you set your foot, as I promised Moses.” ‒ Joshua 1:3
With the promises of God, the people of God reached the destination that had been promised to them. Yet the most important lesson for the Israelites was understanding who God is ‒ a God who cares for His people!
Today, we are encouraged to trust in the Lord.
“Every good and perfect gift is from above, coming down from the Father of the heavenly lights, who does not change like shifting shadows.” ‒ James 1:17
When we allow God to fill us daily, we are filled with His grace and strength. Though challenges may not disappear instantly, we are equipped to face them with confidence.
2. A Childlike Faith That Embraces God’s Plans
“See, the LORD your God has given you the land. Go up and take possession of it as the LORD, the God of your ancestors, told you. Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged.” ‒ Deut 1:21
God told his people to move in faith to claim and to possess what He had promised them.
Similarly, Abraham received God’s promises when he obeyed God. (Gen 17:1-2)
Today, we are encouraged to take the same steps. Discouragement and opposition may arise, but these verses serve as a powerful reminder: God’s promises are sure and steadfast (Deuteronomy 1:21). We are called to persevere, not to faint, for “in due season we shall reap if we do not grow weary.” (Galatians 6:9).
Conclusion
The Israelites’ story is a reminder that our faith journey, like theirs, is a continuous test. By holding onto these two anchors, we can continue our journey with unwavering faith, no matter the challenges we face.
Many Christians are living defeated lives today because they do not live by faith.
Let us be a people of faith.
By His grace.
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