“So all the congregation lifted up their voices and cried, and the people wept that night. 2 And all the children of Israel complained against Moses and Aaron…

But Joshua and Caleb said: “The land we passed through to spy out is an exceedingly good land. If the Lord delights in us, then He will bring us into this land and give it to us, ‘a land which flows with milk and honey.’ Only do not rebel against the Lord, nor fear the people of the land, for they are our bread; their protection has departed from them, and the Lord is with us. Do not fear them.” (Nu 14)

This is the story of the people of God. Ten out of twelve spies gave a negative report about the Promised Land. Only Joshua and Caleb tried to encourage them. The congregation over-reacted emotionally and rejected the promises of God. God was angry and punished them to stay in the desert for forty years until all the adults died there. From the old generation, only Joshua and Caleb entered the Promised Land.

As a child of God you need wisdom when trials of life come your way. You need wisdom on what to do and what not to do. The following are principles of restrain and self-control in difficult times:

*Do not despair!

When the people of God heard about the giants, ‘they cried the whole night’. Their disappointment with the news that they have to fight some giants became discouragement and eventually depression. It is ok to be disappointed. That is a temporary feeling. But it is not ok to allow the disappointment to go further. Discouragement and depression in a child of God are sins and the foundation of bitterness and rebellion. Reject depression!

*Do not complain!

Complaining against the circumstances is a sign of rebellion against the Almighty God. In all things- give thanks!

*Do not blame your leaders!

When you blame men for your difficulties, you are an agent of the devil who thought Adam to blame Eve and even God for his disobedience. Blaming men or even the devil is negative and unproductive. It does not change the circumstances. Instead of blaming your leaders, pray for them!

*Do not look for an easy way out!

The people of God wanted to enter the Promised Land without any effort, opposition or sacrifice. That is not possible. To be able to possess a good thing you must pay a price. The Cross is the price. The higher is the dream, the higher the sacrifice. Even to enter the promised and the blessings of God, you must pay a price!

*Fear not!

God has not given us the spirit of fear, but of power love and sound mind! Reject the demon of fear! God is with you! That is the secret source of true success!

Joshua and Caleb represent the lonely voice of faith. The crowd chose the easy fake song of doubt. Who wins at last: the mass choir or the soloist? God is not interested in numbers. He knows the heart of each man! The worst sin is doubt and unbelief! To believe a lie when you know the truth, that is unbelief! God punishes sin and rewards faith! Selah!

Pray about yourself! There is destiny moment hidden in a life crisis! The decision you make in a difficult moment shall determine your future! May you never regret your choices! May you have peace in all you do! In Jesus name amen!