Life is tough. I know, I know — really deep revelations coming at you. I’m sure if you are reading this, you are someone who regularly faces the many obstacles of life. Whether it is financial strain, family tension, or just the commute to work, we are presented with a choice every time we face resistance in this life: What do I choose to focus on?
Like you, the children of Israel were faced with many obstacles on their journey to The Promised Land, and even when they got to The Promised Land, they still had the obstacles in the land! In many cases, most of the Israelites chose to focus on the negative aspects of their circumstances.
For instance, right after God displayed His power to all of Egypt, which resulted in their freedom from 400 years of slavery (Exodus 12:40-42), they complained at the first instance of inconvenience (Exodus 15:22-24). They even reminisced about the provision they had in Egypt (Exodus 16:2-3). I guess they forgot about also being in slavery. Unfortunately, there were many who were not allowed to even go to The Promised Land because their eyes and their mouth were not aligned with God (Deuteronomy 1:26-46).
Now, not every Israelite was focused on the negative side of their journey. Twelve men were assigned to explore The Promised Land and report on their findings. The majority saw themselves small, thus making the giants seem bigger. However, the report from Caleb was contrary to the negativity of the majority (Numbers 13). Later on, he and Joshua were the only two of that group to step into The Promised Land (Deuteronomy 1:34-38).
When things in life get tough, what are you focusing on? What are you saying? Are you focused on all that is bad in your situation, or are you looking for the goodness of God? Psalms 77:11-12 (KJV) states, ‘I will remember the works of the LORD: Surely I will remember thy wonders of old. I will meditate also of all thy work, And talk of thy doings.”
We need to take time to remember the good things that God has done for us throughout our lives. He is the same God yesterday as He is today, and He will be that way forever. If He did good things in your past, He is doing good things in your present. Put your focus on Him and be at rest for whatever life brings.
Eddie Walker is a staff member of Lord of Hosts Church.
