Summer at Create- You Can Drive Them Out
Pastor Brendon
5 minute read
Before I go back to New Jersey, I hope to remind you of this:
By facing challenges and opposition from the Canaanites, the Israelites were graced with the opportunity to grow their perseverance, faith, and obedience. God didn’t just magically gift them those virtues, but rather gave them the circumstances to grow. In Judges 17, we read this:
“Yet the Manassites were not able to occupy these towns, for the Canaanites were determined to live in that region. However, when the Israelites grew stronger, they subjected the Canaanites to forced labor but did not drive them out completely. The people of Joseph said to Joshua, ‘Why have you given us only one allotment and one portion for an inheritance? We are a numerous people, and the Lord has blessed us abundantly.’ ‘If you are so numerous,”‘Joshua answered, ‘and if the hill country of Ephraim is too small for you, go up into the forest and clear land for yourselves there in the land of the Perizzites and Rephaites.’ The people of Joseph replied, ‘The hill country is not enough for us, and all the Canaanites who live in the plain have chariots fitted with iron, both those in Beth Shan and its settlements and those in the Valley of Jezreel.’ But Joshua said to the tribes of Joseph—to Ephraim and Manasseh—‘You are numerous and very powerful. You will have not only one allotment but the forested hill country as well. Clear it, and its farthest limits will be yours; though the Canaanites have chariots fitted with iron and though they are strong, you can drive them out.’”
Judges 17: 12-18
I want to break this down into four ideas.
Drive it Out!
Just as the Manassites were unable to fully occupy the towns because of the determined Canaanites, you too may encounter serious strongholds in your lives that need to be driven out. Addiction? Demonic influence? Doubt? It’s essential to identify and confront these hindrances, relying on God’s strength and wisdom to overcome them. Take a moment to reflect on what is currently possessing your land. Is it a negative mindset, a sinful habit, or a fear that hinders your progress? Seek God’s guidance and take decisive action to drive it out.
Small-Minded Thinking Will Keep You Stuck!
The people of Joseph expressed their discontentment with their portion of land, believing it to be insufficient for their numerous population. However, Joshua encouraged them to think beyond their limitations and expand into the forest, trusting in God’s provision. Small-minded thinking can hinder us from experiencing the fullness of God’s blessings and potential. Examine areas of your life where you might be limited by small-minded thinking. Are there dreams or opportunities you’ve dismissed due to self-imposed limitations? Seek God’s perspective and step out in faith to explore new territories.
Double-Mindedness Does Not Fit in God’s Kingdom!
When the people of Joseph expressed their concerns about the Canaanites’ strength and chariots, they displayed a wavering faith and double-mindedness. James 1:2-8 reminds you of the importance of unwavering faith and seeking wisdom from God without doubting. Evaluate your faith and commitment to God’s promises. Are there areas where you are double-minded, lacking trust in God’s ability to bring about victory? Surrender your doubts and fears to Him, embracing a steadfast faith that leads to maturity and completeness.
When God Speaks, We Need to Move!
Joshua assured the tribes of Joseph that they were numerous and powerful, capable of driving out the Canaanites despite their perceived strength. This highlights the significance of obedience and taking action when God speaks. This is the application – listen attentively to the prompting of the Holy Spirit in your life. Is there an area where God is calling you to step out in faith or make a move? Trust His guidance and be willing to follow through, even if it seems challenging or uncertain.
As followers of Christ, our journey involves continually driving out obstacles, renewing our mindset, maintaining unwavering faith, and promptly obeying God’s voice. Embrace the truth that you have the power and strength through Christ to overcome any hindrances. Consider your best next step this week and be attentive to what the Holy Spirit is saying to you. May you experience the abundant life God has prepared for you as you walk in faith and obedience.