Numbers 13:1—14:12: Taking Risks
THOSE WHO CHALLENGE society's standards risk disapproval or even ostracism. We are constantly warned about the folly of taking risks. From life insurance to safe long-term investments, we are encouraged to save and conserve our resources. While this might be prudent financial advice, it can have a dangerous effect in the lives of Christians. We tend to adapt all too easily to a safe and comfortable lifestyle. In our walk with Christ we often follow the path of least resistance, avoiding challenges which intimidate us. Today's passage reminds us that an essential element of faithfulness to Christ is the willingness to risk. On the threshold of the Promised Land the children of Israel are faced with a critical choice. They can opt for the path of least resistance or dare to trust their God.
Warming Up to God
What aspect of following Christ frightens or challenges you the most? God knows your fears and wants to comfort you.
Read Numbers 13:1—14:12. »
Discovering the Word
- What kind of information does Moses ask the Israelite leaders to gather (13:18-20)?
- What negative and positive aspects of the land do the spies describe in their report to the Israelite community (13:27-29)?
- How does Caleb's perception of the situation (13:30) contrast with that of the other spies (13:31-33)?
- How do the Israelites respond to the conflicting assessments of the land the spies have explored (14:1-4)?
- What do Caleb and Joshua remind the people about their identity (14:8-9)?
Applying the Word
- In your Christian experience, have you ever reached a point when you wanted to "go back to Egypt"? Explain.
- In verse 10 the people respond to Moses, Aaron, Joshua and Caleb by talking about stoning them. Clearly, their stance for God had put them in physical danger. What type of risks might Christians in your situation face by trusting God despite the opposition of a majority?
- Where might God be calling you to step out in faith in a risky situation?
Responding in Prayer
Ask God to make you a person who is ready to take risks for his sake.
For Further Study
The Crime of Living Cautiously by Luci Shaw