Lost Opportunities

Bible Reading: Numbers 13:25–33; Deuteronomy 1:19–33

There was a moment at Kadesh-barnea when Israel stood at the threshold of the Promised Land. They had come out of Egypt by the mighty hand of God, crossed the Red Sea, experienced His provision in the wilderness, and now Canaan was before them. Moses later reminded them that their journey from Horeb to Kadesh was an eleven-day journey (Deuteronomy 1:2).  They were close to the promise—but they were not ready to trust the God who had brought them that far.

 

The twelve spies saw the same things: the fertile land, the abundant fruit, and the strong people living there. But they did not respond in the same way. Ten spies saw the giants and became afraid. Joshua and Caleb saw the giants too, but they saw something greater—the faithfulness and power of God.

 

Caleb declared: “Let us go up at once and take possession, for we are well able to overcome it.”  But the people listened to the fearful report. They grumbled, distrusted God, and even wished they had remained in Egypt. 

 

What a tragedy! 

 

Sometimes God gives us an opportunity that requires a step of faith. We may see obstacles, uncertainty, opposition, or our own inadequacy. At such moments, fear can become louder than faith. We begin to complain and question God's goodness. We listen to the voices around us rather than the Word of God.

 

And the opportunity is lost forever!

 

God may give us an opportunity to encourage a person, or open a door to serve. He may give us a chance to share the gospel or an opportunity to reconcile. His call may require us to step outside our comfort zone. When God opens a door and His Word calls us forward, we must not allow fear to make our decision for us.

 

Israel discovered that unbelief has consequences. They had to wander for forty years and that generation could not enter the promised land.

 

My friend, what opportunity is God placing before you today? Is fear, or discouragement, keeping you from obeying Him?  Do not let the giants become bigger than your God. When God says, ‘Go,’ trust Him and take the step of faith.

 

Prayer:  Heavenly Father, forgive us for the times when fear has been stronger than our faith. Give us the courage to recognize the opportunities You place before us and the faith to obey, trusting that You are with us always. Amen.

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