Divine Promise Meets Human Preparation

Then Joshua son of Nun secretly sent two spies from Shittim. ‘Go, look over the land,’ he said, ‘especially Jericho.’ So they went and entered the house of a prostitute named Rahab and stayed there.

Joshua 2:1

Joshua’s decision to send spies into Jericho was not a sign of doubt but a demonstration of his faith in God’s promises through careful preparation. God had assured Joshua of success and victory over the Promised Land (Joshua 1:3-6). However, these promises were not given to encourage passivity; they were meant to spur Joshua into faith-filled action. By sending spies, Joshua was actively participating in the fulfillment of God’s promises, showing us that true faith involves both belief and action.

Jesus emphasized the importance of planning in Luke 14:28-31, where He spoke about counting the cost before building a tower or waging war. This principle highlights that careful preparation is an integral part of faith. Planning does not indicate a lack of trust in God; rather, it reflects a deep belief that God’s promises will come to pass. When we plan, we are essentially preparing ourselves to receive and steward the blessings God has promised.

As believers, we must understand that faith is dynamic. It requires us to trust in God’s promises while also taking practical steps to align ourselves with His will. Just as Joshua sent spies to gather information, we too must seek wisdom, gather resources, and make strategic decisions in our endeavors. This balance of divine promise and human preparation is key to experiencing the fullness of God’s plans for our lives.

Reflecting on Joshua’s example, we are encouraged to examine our approach to God’s promises. Do we passively wait for God to act, or do we actively prepare for the fulfillment of His word? Planning with faith involves seeking God’s guidance, making informed decisions, and stepping out in obedience. This approach not only honors God but also positions us to walk confidently into the promises He has for us.

PRAYER