You will by no means enter into the land where I swore to settle you. The only exceptions are Caleb son of Jephunneh and Joshua son of Nun. But I will bring in your little ones, whom you said would become victims of war, and they will enjoy the land that you have despised.
Into the Text
The Book of Exodus ends on a high note. The people had successfully built the tabernacle. God’s presence dwelled with the people, and they were on their way to the Promised Land.Â
As great an ending as this is, it isn’t the true ending. Leviticus, Numbers, and Deuteronomy go on to recount what happened to the nation of Israel next.Â
Numbers 13-14 tells us that because of Israel’s doubt and fear upon approaching the border of the Promised Land, they were not allowed to enter. Instead, God’s discipline meant forty years of wandering in the desert.Â
The people had already been told that they would dwell safely in the Promised Land. When they reached the border, spies were sent in to see what the land was like. Though they brought back a favorable report of the land, all but two of the spies believed it would be too dangerous to go in because of the people.Â
The spies were blinded by their fear. They had forgotten God’s promise and His character. Had they remembered, they would have known that the land was theirs. God would go before them.Â
However, neither the people nor Moses would be able to enter. It would be the next generation, their children, who would enjoy the blessings of the Promised Land.Â
May we not miss out due to fear. May we take our fears to the foot of the cross, knowing that God hears us and is with us wherever we go. Â
Prayer
God, thank you for being trustworthy and good. I pray that you would help me overcome fears that are holding me back from trusting you and walking in faith. Amen.Â