Fool for God

Joshua 10:11

And as they fled before Israel, while they were going down the ascent of Beth-horon, the LORD threw down large stones from heaven on them as far as Azekah, and they died. There were more who died because of the hailstones than the sons of Israel killed with the sword.

Good morning Zebras,

This morning I was praying about a situation in my life where I have done everything I feel God has called me to do and yet I have not yet achieved what I believe are the desired results. And God brought this verse to mind.

Now you might think that this is an odd verse to find comfort in, but you would be wrong.

The Israelites under Joshua’s leadership had gone into battle just as the Lord directed. If I remember correctly their enemy was bigger and stronger than them yet out of obedience they faithfully went and did what God had called them to do.

And look how He responded. He killed more of the enemy with hailstones than the Israelites did with their swords. How cool!

God does not abandon His obedient people. But I think the question is: Are we doing our part? Have we bravely done what God is asking of us even if it is scary and makes no sense or are we waiting for God to act first?

Notice God did not bring the hailstones until the Israelites were in the battle. He did not supernaturally act until the Israelites moved out on faith.

And I think the same principle still applies.

If you want to see the supernatural hand of God you need to have faith and trust God enough to do what He is calling you to do. You need to be willing to look a little foolish and move out in faith.

A couple of weeks ago I watched Evan Almighty. If you haven’t seen it, it is a modern retelling of Noah and the ark. God asks Evan, a rising star in the political world, to build an ark. At first he refuses but eventually God makes it clear that Evan has to give up everything and build the ark. So he does and everybody laughs.

One reporter mockingly asks him “Why would God pick you?” I love Evan’s reply. He looks straight into the eyes of this man who thinks he is so smart and says “God picks everybody.” Suddenly, to me, Evan doesn’t look like the stupid one.

Love,
Jill