Joshua 2:8-9

New King James Version

Now before they lay down, she came up to them on the roof, and said to the men: “I know that the Lord has given you the land, that the terror of you has fallen on us, and that all the inhabitants of the land are fainthearted because of you.

For Encouragement

When people forget the uniqueness of their God, they tremble in fear even when the leaves whistle in the wind. Every noise or idea paralyzes them because they have set their focus on the might and exploits of the opposition or new idea. Those who overcome are the ones that know their God—His Omnipotence, Omnipresence, Omniscience, and immutability. They move by faith to confront their fears to do exploits for God’s glory.

Israel never fully trusted God throughout their journey from Egypt to the Promised Land, though God did miracles to assure them. They complained and whined whenever they faced trouble. The purpose of the scouting was for them to see its beauty and fruitfulness. However, ten of the scouts came back drained of their confidence. Instead of seeing the greatness of Jehovah against the opposition, the ten scouts saw themselves as grasshoppers in the eyes of the Canaanites (Nu. 12:33). Thank God for Joshua and Caleb, whose view of El-Shaddai overshadowed their assessment of the opposition (30).

The irony is that Canaan trembled at the name of the Israelites. They had heard about the exploits of Jehovah, who led them, and fear gripped them. Listen to the confession of Rahab to the two spies Joshua sent ahead of their assault on Jericho.

“We are all afraid of you. Everyone in the land is living in terror” (Joshua 2:8-11).

Need I tell you about how the enemy trembles at you, the redeemed of God? What more do you want to hear from Christ Jesus and all His assurances? Is it about His presence (Hebrews 13:5—6), the spiritual weapons to you (2 Cor. 13-5), His power that works in you (Eph. 1:18-22; 2 Tim. 1:7), or about His armor for you (6:10-18)?

Our God is big. Never lose sight of that and give in to fear. In Christ, the enemy fears you (Jas. 4:7) and trembles. He has made you a conqueror in Him (Rm. 8:37).

So, let this encourage you as you enter 2023. Though uncertainties and challenges may abound, Christ has called you to abide in its domain, and He goes with you. And if God is for you, who [and what] can stand against you? He is bringing you across the threshold for His glory.