Day 76 Through The Bible

Day 76: Standing with God – A Call to Courage and Faith

As we continue our faith journey, we encounter many lessons in Scripture that speak to the trials and challenges of standing firm in God’s will. One such principle is seen through the lives of Joshua and Caleb. Their example teaches us an important truth: when you stand with God, those who don’t share your faith will often seek to harm you. However, as we will see, we are reminded that God is still on His throne and has not left His dwelling place. We need This reassurance when facing opposition, especially when the world is against us.

Biblical Principle: God’s Strength in the Face of Opposition

In Numbers 14:6-10, we read about Joshua and Caleb, two of the twelve men sent to spy out the Promised Land. The report they bring back is full of optimism and faith. They tell the people of Israel, “The land, which we passed through to search it, is an exceeding good land” (Numbers 14:7). But their message of hope is not received well by the congregation. Instead of believing in the promise of God, the people respond with fear and rebellion, seeking to stone Joshua and Caleb.

Here, the tension is evident: God has promised His people, but when faced with the potential challenges of taking the land, fear and doubt overshadow their trust in God. Despite this, Joshua and Caleb stand firm, urging the people not to fear. They boldly proclaim, “If the LORD delight in us, then He will bring us into this land and give it to us” (Numbers 14:8). They remind the people that “their defense is departed from them, and the LORD is with us: fear them not” (Numbers 14:9).

Despite their faithful stand, the people still wanted to stone them. This is a clear example of how standing with God can provoke the opposition of those not aligned with His will. But at that moment, something amazing happens—the glory of the Lord appears in the Tabernacle, affirming that God is present and watching over His people.

This scene powerfully illustrates how the truth of God’s Word can provoke anger and hostility in those unwilling to trust His promises. Joshua and Caleb did not sway in the face of opposition; they remained resolute in their faith, knowing God was still on His throne.

Practical Application: Why Does the World Hate You?

In our lives, we may face similar opposition for standing firm in our faith. Perhaps you’ve been mocked, criticized, or even ostracized because you believed in God’s Word or your stand for righteousness. It can be painful when others, especially those close to us, reject or misunderstand our commitment to follow God’s call. But we can take comfort in the words of Jesus in John 15:18-20. He reminds us, “If the world hates you, ye know that it hated me before it hated you” (John 15:18).

We should examine the source of the hate when we oppose doing what God has called us to do. Why are they angry? Is it because we are following God's will or not doing what God has asked of us? Jesus makes it clear that if we were of the world, we would be loved by the world. But because we are chosen by Christ and called out of the world, we are often hated for our allegiance to Him.

This principle calls us to reflect on the nature of our opposition. Are we experiencing persecution because of our faithfulness to God's Word? If so, we can take heart in knowing that this is not a sign of failure but instead of being aligned with God’s will. Jesus warns that, as His servants, we will face persecution: “If they have persecuted me, they will also persecute you” (John 15:20).

Standing Firm in God’s Promise

The stories of Joshua and Caleb and Jesus' words in John 15 encourage us to stand firm in our faith, even when the world is against us. God has not forsaken us. Just as He showed His glory to the Israelites, He continues to watch over His people today. When the world pushes against us, we can take comfort in knowing that God is still on His throne and with us, just as He was with Joshua and Caleb.

In practical terms, when facing opposition, ask yourself: “Who hates me, and why?” Is it because I stand firm in my faith or not living as God has called me? Be encouraged that when you stand with God, you are never alone. He is faithful to His promises and will not abandon you in your struggles. Hold fast to the truth of His Word and trust that, no matter the opposition, His glory is with you.

Final Thoughts

As we continue our Christian walk, remember Joshua and Caleb's example. Let’s stand firm in our faith, knowing that God is with us even when the world may reject us. Let’s take comfort in the fact that God’s glory still fills His presence, and He is always faithful to those who stand with Him.

In Jesus' words, “The servant is not greater than his lord” (John 15:20). If He suffered for the truth, we may face challenges, too. But we can trust that, like Joshua and Caleb, our God is still on His throne, and we have a hope that cannot be shaken.