In Joshua, Chapter 5, the Scripture reads that Israel is circumcised at Gilgal. But, what does this have to do with faith?
Read on…
It took Israel 39 years of wandering because of their fear.
Read the story of how they underestimated God’s power.
And, this lack of courage kept them away from the promised land .
Yes, God performed many miracles. But, they were still unwilling to believe He could deliver His promise made to Moses.
Israel is Circumcised At Gilgal – Joshua 5
Israel is now on the verge of taking possession of the promised land. And, these verses from Joshua hold many lessons for us.
But today, I want to concentrate on courage and faith.
The Canaanites seemed to believe more in the the God of Israel than the Israelites themselves.
At Gilgal – Circumcision of Israel
“At that time the Lord said to Joshua, “Make for yourself flint knives and circumcise again the sons of Israel the second time.”
So Joshua made himself flint knives and circumcised the sons of Israel at Gibeath-haaraloth.” – Joshua 5:2-3 NASB
Faith in God & the Fear Factor
39 years is a long, long time. But, this is how long it took for Israel to finally decide to take possession of the land God promised Moses during the Exodus from Egypt.
All those years wasted was a result of fear – and a lack of faith in God.
“Those Who Have Not Seen“
It’s amazing that the people of Israel, after experiencing all the miracles in Egypt such as:
- the Passover
- Parting of the Red Sea
- feeding them daily on their journey (manna from heaven),
Then, having God Himself personally lead them across the desert safely. Yet, they still did not have faith that God could deliver the promised land to them.
The Canaanites had only heard of the defeat of Egypt and the other great miracles God had done. But still, they were terrified!
So, which nation had the greatest faith – Israel or Caanan?
God Weens Israel – Time to Work
“On the day after the Passover, on that very day, they ate some of the produce of the land, unleavened cakes and parched grain.
The manna ceased on the day after they had eaten some of the produce of the land, so that the sons of Israel no longer had manna, but they ate some of the yield of the land of Canaan during that year.” – Joshua 5:11-12
A quick side-note: After God led Israel to the edge of the promised land, He “weened” Israel from the daily manna.
He provided food where there was none in the desert. But, the promised land was lush and capable of providing all the food needed.
Remember, God answers prayers. However, God does expect us to prepare and use talents He gave us to provide what He freely gives.
No, I’m not writing a riddle – just a better way to pray.
For instance, instead of praying for God to make a decision for you; pray for the wisdom to make the right choice.
I’ve heard many times growing up: “There’s no substitute for hard work.”
God gives us the tools. But, it’s up to us to use them correctly. This section ends with a familiar quote…
“Give a man a fish; he’ll eat for a day. Teach a man to fish; he’ll eat for a lifetime.“
God teaches us to fish, just as He did with Israel. Now, it’s time for them (and us) to take action to allow God’s plan to work in our lives.
Underestimating God
Israel underestimated the power of God, just as we sometimes do.
Yes, I’ve said on many occasions, “This job is too big for me.”.
What I really mean is; this job is too big for God.
Let’s remember, the same God who created the universe is working for us too!
So, it’s not our right to tell God what He can or cannot do.
If we only show that trust – along with a little courage, God can make things happen that seem impossible to us.
Pray. And, don’t underestimate God.
Love in Christ
– Bob
If you would like more information about the love and life-changing experience of Jesus Christ, please take a moment and see John 3:16 now.