OUR SUCCESS IS IN THE LORD’S HANDS
The Lord encouraged the Israelites not to fear their enemies as they prepared to enter the Promised Land. He reminded them of how He had brought them out of Egypt. He promised that He would be with them in the same way to take the land from their enemies and occupy it. However, He warned them not to boast afterwards as if they had done it with their own “strength and energy.” Instead, they were to “remember” that He is the One who gave them success.
When we put our “yes” on the table with God, saying “Here I am, send me,” we can move in the direction we feel God calling us, while trusting Him with the results. This brings to mind the motto of the 17-century British missionary to India, William Carey, who said, “Expect great things from God and attempt great things for God.”
This takes the emphasis off of our ability and makes it a matter of our own availability. For God cares more for our availability than our ability. “Who has made man’s mouth? (Ex. 4:11), God said to Moses when he complained that he had no ability as a leader or public speaker.
Let us stop “remembering” our own lack of talent, time or treasure and instead “remember the Lord!”
PRAYER: O Lord, we confess our doubts and small thinking to you. Help us to see and hear as you would have us. We want to follow you in the work you are already doing in this world. We are children and we would remember that you are our God. Our success is in your hands. In Jesus’ name, amen.