The Prophetic Word - Day 7: The promise is secured by promise-motivated action.
- May 2, 2023
- 2 min read
“And they came to Moses and Aaron and to all the congregation of the people of Israel in the wilderness of Paran, at Kadesh. They brought back word to them and to all the congregation, and showed them the fruit of the land. And they told him, "We came to the land to which you sent us. It flows with milk and honey, and this is its fruit. However, the people who dwell in the land are strong, and the cities are fortified and very large. And besides, we saw the descendants of Anak there.”
Numbers 13:26-28 ESV
Have you ever considered the power in our “however’s”?
The word, “however”—and similar words—are conjunctive adverbs, “announcing” a contrast between what has just been said and what is about to be said. (Don’t glaze over, this is not a grammar lesson.)
The point here is that when we speak of the word of God (including His promises), then follow up with any “however,” we are generally voiding our claim to that promise. Of course, we are not speaking here of perfectly legitimate statements such as: “I am believing for a new job; however, I don’t know what the Lord‘s timing is concerning that move.”
A perfect example of the type of “however” that negates the promise, is seen in our opening scripture. As discussed yesterday the Lord had promised the children of Israel a land of plenty. However, when they went to spy on the land, with the bounty the Lord had promised, are giants and other mighty people already possessing it.
Now, if they had given it a minute, they could have reflected on the fact that the same God Who promised them this fruitful land, also knew who was currently inhabiting it. But, when you’re looking for an excuse to not believe (as we repeatedly see was their propensity), you will find it.
In a case such as has just been described, when we know for certain what God has promised, yet are presented with contrary evidence, we must remember that God already knew all of these variables when He made the promise. Our job is to be obedient to His voice, patient in our waiting, and preparing for action.
If we believe what God has said, let’s act like it. Our actions (including our confessions) should be based on the conviction that the promise is true. Then, in the time before the promise is realized, we must allow the Holy Spirit to instruct us as to how to wait or how to move forward.
Remember, words/thoughts contrary to what God has said, must be cast down rather than entertained.
Peace to you.
Jesus is coming. Get ready for Him!
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