Numbers 13:17-20 (KJV)
And Moses sent them to spy out the land of Canaan, and said unto them, Get you up this way southward, and go up into the mountain:
And see the land, what it is; and the people that dwelleth therein, whether they be strong or weak, few or many;
And what the land is that they dwell in, whether it be good or bad; and what cities they be that they dwell in, whether in tents, or in strong holds;
And what the land is, whether it be fat or lean, whether there be wood therein, or not. And be ye of good courage, and bring of the fruit of the land. Now the time was the time of the firstripe grapes.
And Moses sent them to spy out the land of Canaan, and said unto them, Get you up this way southward, and go up into the mountain:
And see the land, what it is; and the people that dwelleth therein, whether they be strong or weak, few or many;
And what the land is that they dwell in, whether it be good or bad; and what cities they be that they dwell in, whether in tents, or in strong holds;
And what the land is, whether it be fat or lean, whether there be wood therein, or not. And be ye of good courage, and bring of the fruit of the land. Now the time was the time of the firstripe grapes.
Moses sent the spies to gather information about the land. It seems to me he had commissioned them to bring back something encouraging, helpful; something that would excite the people with hope. They came back instead with an evil report[1]about the inhabitants. They were appointed to be encouragers. They were instead discouragers.
It’s happened to me that I have asked someone to do a ministry, thinking they would be a blessing, but they turned that ministry into an opportunity to cause pain and hurt.
I understand that there are dangers and difficulties that need to be reported but it is seldom a good idea to do that unless it is reported:
- At the right time,
- To the right persons and
- On the right platform
Otherwise use your opportunities of service to be an encouragement rather than a discouragement.
[1]They technically followed Moses’ instructions and brought some of the fruit of the land. There are people to attempt to justify their rebellion by obeying some part of their instructions that appeals to them or does not interfere with their rebellious intent.
To my readers:
First of all, thank you! It is a great joy to me to know you read the thoughts and lessons God has given me in His word. Secondly, I would love to hear from you. Please feel free to leave comments.
First of all, thank you! It is a great joy to me to know you read the thoughts and lessons God has given me in His word. Secondly, I would love to hear from you. Please feel free to leave comments.
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Numbers 13:17-20 (KJV) Be An Encourager
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