minority report

In Exodus, chapter 13, Moses sent 12 spies to investigate the "promised land" within the first year or so after the people of Israel had crossed the Red Sea.  The spies (one from each tribe) were sent to check out how strong the armies were that they would face and whether the people lived in walled cities.  They were also to find out how rich the soil was.  When they came back They brought a sample of the grapes that proved the good quality of the land but only Joshua and Caleb spoke with confidence that they should invade the land.  The other spies fixated on the size and strength of the armies they'd seen.  Joshua and Caleb didn't deny the reality of this challenge but they had the faith to believe that what God had promised, He was absolutely able to deliver.  Here is part of what they said  from Numbers 14:9 "Do not rebel against the Lord, and don't be afraid of the people of the land. They are only helpless prey to us! They have no protection, but the Lord is with us! Don't be afraid of them!"  Unfortunately the people decided to be swayed by the fears of the ten spies over the faith of the two.  I am reminded that when we are listening for the voice of the Lord we need discernment to hear truth and wisdom.  We may find that His direction for us comes from the "minority report" of the few over the blare from the many.  If we have laid the strong foundation of His promises in our hearts like Joshua and Caleb then we will have faith for their fulfillment.  Otherwise we will be blown around by fears because our faith has shallow roots.

blessings,

Rob Smith