Have you ever noticed a difference between confidence and arrogance? In various Bible verses, we learn the value of humility and the importance of putting others ahead of ourselves. Though we should avoid arrogance, we should also practice confidence.

In Numbers 14, we see God’s Word outline the importance of assurance. In this book, Moses has sent members of the Israelites as scouts to explore Canaan and evaluate the land. The lookouts return and say the land is flowing with milk and honey. 

However, most of the scouts harbor great fear for they see giants living on the land and find fortified cities. The scared travelers compare themselves to grasshoppers, and they recommend against God’s ordinance to take the Promised Land.

While the majority of Israel submits to their fear, Joshua and Caleb stand alone in courage. They tell the Israelite assembly how the land they passed through is exceedingly good. Joshua and Caleb go on to say that if the Lord is pleased with Israel, He will give them this land. 

Joshua and Caleb have faith in the Lord; they have confidence in God. They advise the people of Israel not to rebel against the Lord and not to be afraid because God is with them.

What happened?

Instead of leaning on their own faith, Israel cowers in fear of the giants and decides not to go. The Israelites talk of stoning Joshua and Caleb, but Moses speaks on their behalf and calms the crowds. However, the Lord punishes Israel and bans those who were led out of Egypt from leaving the wilderness and passing into the Promised Land, with the exception of Caleb and Joshua.

Here’s the thing: it can be tough to stand alone especially when everyone else is against you and the odds seem stacked in the favor of the enemy. However, as leaders in our communities and as athletes on the field, we need to remember God calls us to stand on our “promised land.” 

We need to be the Joshuas and Calebs in our classrooms, at practices and with our friends. We need to make sure that even though the world and society will tell us certain ways to be: rich, entitled, and without respect for others, we need to make sure we talk and act in a way which reflects the attitude of Caleb and Joshua. 

Remember, if the Lord is pleased, He will give us this land. This is the confidence we can have in our God.

K.A. Wypych/kawypych.com