“Nevertheless the people be strong that dwell in the land, and the cities are walled, and very great: and moreover we saw the children of Anak there.”
Context:Numbers 13 is part of the account of Moses sending twelve spies, one from each tribe, to explore the land of Canaan, which God had promised to give to the Israelites as their inheritance. The spies were instructed to bring back a report about the land and its inhabitants.
Faith and Fear:In verse 28, the spies describe the land of Canaan as having strong people, fortified cities, and the presence of the children of Anak, who were known as giants. This report highlights the contrast between faith and fear. Ten of the spies focused on the difficulties and challenges, instilling fear among the Israelites. However, Joshua and Caleb, the two faithful spies, focused on the promises of God and encouraged the people to trust in Him (Numbers 13:30).
Giants in the Land:The mention of the children of Anak, who were giants, emphasized the physical obstacles the Israelites would face in conquering the land. The spies’ report caused the Israelites to doubt God’s ability to fulfill His promise, even though He had already demonstrated His power through the plagues in Egypt, the parting of the Red Sea, and His provision in the wilderness.
God’s Promises vs. Human Limitations:The report of the spies reminds us of the tension between God’s promises and human limitations. God had promised to give the land to the Israelites, but they allowed their fear and the apparent challenges to overshadow His promise. It serves as a warning for us not to be discouraged by obstacles, but to trust in God’s faithfulness and power to fulfill His promises.
The Consequences of Fear:The fearful response of the Israelites resulted in rebellion against God, which had severe consequences. Because they doubted God’s ability and were unwilling to enter the land, the entire generation was sentenced to wander in the wilderness for forty years until they died (Numbers 14:29-30). Only Joshua and Caleb, the two faithful spies, were allowed to enter the Promised Land.
Lessons for Believers:Numbers 13:28 teaches us the importance of faith in the face of challenges and obstacles. It reminds us that God’s promises are greater than any difficulties we may encounter. When we focus on our own limitations and the obstacles before us, we can easily be filled with fear and doubt. However, by fixing our eyes on God’s faithfulness and power, we can overcome fear and trust in His provision and guidance.
In conclusion, Numbers 13:28 presents a pivotal moment in the Israelites’ journey to the Promised Land, where fear and doubt clouded their faith in God’s promises. It serves as a reminder for believers today to trust in God’s faithfulness and power, even when faced with challenges and obstacles.
