Facing the Giants: Fear and the Next Step

Scripture Focus: Numbers 13:27–33; 14:1–10a (NIV)

Have you ever read the early books of the Old Testament and been surprised by the Israelites’ responses? God had done incredible things for them—freed them from slavery, sent the plagues, split the Red Sea, and led them with pillars of cloud and fire. Yet they struggled. They worshiped a golden calf. Multiple times they wanted to go back to Egypt, preferring the familiar (even if it meant slavery) over fully trusting the God who was leading them to the Promised Land and into relationship with Himself.

When I reflect on this, I wonder how different I am—and how different we all are. Many of us have clear evidence of God’s leading and provision. We have the Holy Spirit living in us (something the Israelites did not). Still, we can be drawn back to the familiar, grow discontent, complain, and hold back from fully trusting God and taking the next step He is asking us to take.

That is exactly the struggle we see in Numbers 13–14. The Israelites had camped at Mount Sinai, received the Ten Commandments, broken the covenant, and seen God renew it. Now they stood at the edge of the land promised to their ancestors. God told them to send twelve scouts to explore it. After forty days, the scouts returned with evidence of God’s faithfulness: “It does flow with milk and honey! Here is its fruit” (Numbers 13:27). They even brought back a massive cluster of grapes that took two men to carry, along with pomegranates and figs (vs. 23). The land was exactly as God had promised.

Yet ten of the twelve focused on the obstacles—powerful people, fortified cities, and descendants of Anak who made them feel like grasshoppers. Fear rewrote their story. Their bad report spread, and the people grumbled, longed for Egypt, and rebelled: “Wouldn’t it be better for us to go back to Egypt?” (Numbers 14:3–4).

Only Caleb and Joshua stood firm. They did not deny the challenges, but they trusted God’s promises more than what their eyes saw. “We should go up and take possession of the land, for we can certainly do it… The Lord is with us. Do not be afraid of them” (Numbers 13:30; 14:9).

Four Truths for When Fear Holds Us Back from Our Next Steps

1. God keeps His promises. The fruit the scouts carried was tangible proof. When we face something new, uncomfortable, or scary, we can remember: “For the Lord is good and his love endures forever; his faithfulness continues through all generations” (Psalm 100:5) and “He who promised is faithful” (Hebrews 10:23). God does not cross His fingers behind His back when He makes promises. You can take Him at His Word.

2. Don’t let fear rewrite your story. Fear paralyzes us. It magnifies obstacles and makes us forget that “I can do all this through him who gives me strength” (Philippians 4:13). On our own, we may not be able to do what God asks—but with Him we can. Years ago, I felt prompted to invite a woman with “rough edges” to a church-type service. Fear of rejection almost stopped me. I asked anyway. She said yes—and that day she accepted Jesus. What could be lost if you let fear or what seem like insurmountable obstacles keep you from your next step?

3. Fear can turn into rebellion. The ten scouts’ fear spread. Discouragement became open resistance to God’s plan. God often calls us into the unfamiliar because it leads to something better. Returning to what feels safe, familiar, and comfortable can mean missing His best.

4. Be careful who you listen to. Surround yourself with modern-day Calebs and Joshuas—people sensitive to God’s leading who will speak faith instead of fear, encourage you, and walk with you. A church family, small group, or trusted friends who want God’s best for you are invaluable. They will remind you that fear should not direct your life; God should.

Your Next Step

God has a good plan and purpose for your life—things only you can do. You likely already sense what step He is asking you to take. It might be sharing your faith with a neighbor or coworker, forgiving someone (or yourself), changing a relationship status, starting to give, joining or leading a small group, stepping into ministry, or simply opening your Bible again each day. For some, the foundational step is inviting Jesus into your life.

The Israelites who refused to trust God wandered for decades; only Caleb and Joshua from that generation entered the land. Do you want God’s best, or are you content to stay where you are? He will not force His plan on you, but He will lead you each step of the way if you choose to follow.

Reflection Questions

• What next step has God been placing on your heart?

• Where has fear been rewriting the story instead of faith?

• Who are the Calebs and Joshuas in your life right now—or who do you need to invite closer?

• What is one concrete next step you can take today?

  
  

Prayer: Father, thank You that You want to take us deeper and closer to You. Thank You for keeping Your promises. Give us courage, even in the midst of fear, to take the next step. Help us listen to voices of faith and refuse to let fear or doubt keep us from Your best. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

Take that next step—and don’t give up on God’s best for you.

• Video Message: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XE3B_x9j7xA&t=4s

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