Let's revisit the verses we examined last week concerning the two tribes of the sons of Joseph:
Then Joshua said to the tribes of Ephraim and Manasseh, the descendants of Joseph, “Since you are so large and strong, you will be given more than one portion. The forests of the hill country will be yours as well. Clear as much of the land as you wish, and take possession of its farthest corners. And you will drive out the Canaanites from the valleys, too, even though they are strong and have iron chariots" (Joshua 17:16-17).
God had promised the sons of Jacob the land, but if they wanted enough for all their sons and daughters, then they would have to do the work. They would have to invest time and energy to clear the land they wanted and needed. Just like them, you always have a role to play in the promises of God being fulfilled as we read in Isaiah 1:19-20:
"If you are willing and obedient, You shall eat the good of the land; But if you refuse and rebel, You shall be devoured by the sword”; For the mouth of the LORD has spoken."
People often ask me how I'm able to write so many books. My answer is always the same: "One page at a time, one day at a time. They're not part of the heavenly Jerusalem that descends from on high." And notice the two elements involved in the verses from Isaiah: willingness and obedience. If you're willing but procrastinate, you won't inherit the land God has for you. If you're unwilling but attempt to be obedient, you'll always find an excuse for why now isn't the right time to take more land in the way of starting your business, writing your book, launching the mission, or getting the degree. God and I partner in the matter. I write because I'm willing and obedient and then God helps me with ideas, time, and energy.
Are you willing to do God's will? Don't answer too quickly, but meditate on the question and ask God to help you see the truth. Are you being obedient? Has something been in your heart to do (you're willing) but your obedience is too connected to the circumstances so your obedience lags? The verse in Isaiah describes either one without the other as rebellion and the fruit from that is not good. It's time to assess your true spiritual condition to make sure you meet the criteria to eat the fruit of the land. God is willing to do His part; are you willing to do yours?
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