22 November 2022 - It is time to take the land

Genesis 17:8 (AMP) “I will give to you and to your descendants after you the land in which you are a stranger , all the land of Canaan, as an everlasting possession ; and I will be their God.”

There has been a recurring theme throughout the book of Joshua. God makes specific promises, but unless the people take hold of them by faith, they will not receive the promise. Certainly, the greatest example was that the previous generation did not enter the Promised land because of their lack of faith that God would be true to His Word.

Joshua 18:1-3 (NIV) The whole assembly of the Israelites gathered at Shiloh and set up the tent of meeting there. The country was brought under their control, but there were still seven Israelite tribes who had not yet received their inheritance. So Joshua said to the Israelites: "How long will you wait before you begin to take possession of the land that the LORD, the God of your ancestors, has given you?”

This is a great picture of God offering a gift, but like any gift, it must be received. It must be opened. For the tribes to receive their inheritance, they must actually go and take possession of the land. God can promise, but in order for the promise to be fulfilled, it must be received by faith.

2 Peter 1:3-4 (NIV) His divine power has given us everything we need for a godly life through our knowledge of him who called us by his own glory and goodness. Through these he has given us his very great and precious promises, so that through them you may participate in the divine nature, having escaped the corruption in the world caused by evil desires.

Hebrews 10:23-24 (AMP) Let us seize and hold tightly the confession of our hope without wavering, for He who promised is reliable and trustworthy and faithful ; and let us consider how we may encourage one another to love and to do good deeds,

Isaiah 41:10 (NLT) Don’t be afraid, for I am with you. Don’t be discouraged, for I am your God. I will strengthen you and help you. I will hold you up with my victorious right hand.

Proverbs 3:1-6 (NLT) My child, never forget the things I have taught you. Store my commands in your heart. If you do this, you will live many years, and your life will be satisfying. Never let loyalty and kindness leave you! Tie them around your neck as a reminder. Write them deep within your heart. Then you will find favor with both God and people, and you will earn a good reputation. Trust in the LORD with all your heart; do not depend on your own understanding. Seek his will in all you do, and he will show you which path to take.