When Giants Block Your Promised Land
Have you ever felt utterly deflated when facing an impossible situation? I admit I've felt that way numerous times. I know God is good. I know He can handle every problem. Yet, when negative circumstances surround me and deadlines loom before me, my faith grows weak, and my mind begins to doubt. When that happens, I often open my Bible to Numbers 13.
"And Caleb stilled the people before Moses, and said, Let us go up at once, and possess it; for we are well able to overcome it" (Numbers 13:30).
What courage! While ten spies spread fear about giants and walled cities, Joshua and Caleb saw the same challenges but reached a dramatically different conclusion. The Bible specifically mentions they had "another spirit" (Numbers 14:24). In modern terms, they had a different attitude, a different perspective.
What about you? What giants are you facing today? A health crisis? Financial troubles? A struggling relationship? A dream that seems impossible? The question isn't whether you face giants—we all do—but rather, which spy's report are you believing?
The distinction between Joshua and Caleb and the other spies wasn't that they saw different things. They all saw the same giants, the same walls, the same challenges. The difference was what they focused on. Ten focused on the giants; two focused on the Giant-slayer.
How can you develop this "different spirit" in your own life?
First, immerse yourself in God's promises. What has He specifically said about your situation in His Word?
Second, actively remember God's past faithfulness. Perhaps start a small journal noting specific times God came through for you. When was the last time He provided just what you needed?
Third, focus on who God is, not just what He does. When fear creeps in, remind yourself: "My God is sovereign; this challenge is nothing to Him."
Fourth, watch your words. The ten spies spoke defeat and spread discouragement. Joshua and Caleb spoke victory. What words are coming out of your mouth about your situation? Remember, "I can do all things through Christ which strengtheneth me" (Philippians 4:13).
Fifth, practice gratitude. Even amid uncertainty, what can you thank God for right now? Gratitude shifts your perspective dramatically.
Finally, seek out other "Joshua and Calebs" in your life, those rare believers whose faith-filled perspective will lift yours when you're sinking into doubt.
The wilderness of Paran wasn't just a geographical location. It was a spiritual crossroads. And you face similar crossroads daily. Faith isn't pretending challenges don't exist but rather seeing them clearly while believing even more strongly in the God who is greater.
So, what kind of spirit do you have today?