God is With Us!

Do not fear them. Numbers 14:9

How many times must we be reminded, do not be afraid? Over and over these simple words are repeated in our ear: arise, and do not fear.  This time, God allows Joshua to be the bearer of good news, “Do not rebel against the LORD, nor fear the people of the land, for they are our bread; their protection has departed from them, and the LORD is with us. Do not fear them.” Numbers 14:9. 

On what occasion did God speak through Joshua. Verses 1 thru 8: the people of God were again complaining. The sound of their weeping was heard by Moses and Aaron, who fell on their faces before all the assembly of the congregation of the children of Israel, Verse 5. Not surprising. Family leaders often are driven to their knees in prayer. Our hearts grievef for our children.

Our hearts ache for our children more when they rebel against the Lord. Harsh words can come from despairing hearts: If only we had died in the land of Egypt! Verse 2. Would it not be better for us to return to Egypt? Verse 3. Let us select a leader and return to Egypt. Verse 4. It is no wonder Moses and Aaron fell on their faces.

Our children do not always say, “Why doesn’t God just leave me alone?” Their actions speak volumes. They too often long for the days when their slavery to sin seemed like freedom. Not only our children, sometimes we, their parents, act the same way. Some days we spend too much time looking back—instead of looking forward.

Like Moses, we plead our case before the Lord. “Father, do not let the world see that You, our God, could not deliver us!” With doubting hearts, the children of Israel took the land of promise. We may not win every battle—doubts will come and go—but victory is ours! Many come against you and yours, do not fear them, “their protection has departed from them, the LORD is with us!”