Fear & Freedom

Then Moses and Aaron fell facedown in front of the whole Israelite assembly gathered there. Joshua son of Nun and Caleb son of Jephunneh, who were among those who had explored the land, tore their clothes and said to the entire Israelite assembly, “The land we passed through and explored is exceedingly good. If the Lord is pleased with us, he will lead us into that land, a land flowing with milk and honey, and will give it to us. Only do not rebel against the Lord. And do not be afraid of the people of the land, because we will devour them. Their protection is gone, but the Lord is with us. Do not be afraid of them.” Numbers 14:5-9

What is the most prevalent and primary emotions that holds men back? Fear. Make a mental list right now of any big decisions you have made in your lifetime, the first ones that pop into your head. These may be job and career-related or they could be about your family. In nearly every decision like this, fear plays a significant role. I distinctly remember the season when Resolute started and I decided to come on staff. I knew that men’s leaders across the country were looking for good group material. I had led it personally and seen the result. I knew God blessed it, but I was afraid to leave my pastoral role and jump in.

Fear can and does save our life. But fear can also prevent us from experiencing God’s best. Joshua and Caleb saw the land and its frightening inhabitants. They also saw who God was with and where His protection lie. A whole generation of Israelites missed out on the freedom of the promised land because they feared the people instead of God. Evaluate your fear, place it in God, and find freedom.

DO THIS TODAY: Start fearing God and stop fearing everything else.