Inspiration

Judges 3:1–2, NLT

These are the nations that the LORD left in the land to test those Israelites who had not experienced the wars of Canaan. He did this to teach warfare to generations of Israelites who had no experience in battle.

After Joshua died, the Israelites were settled in the Promised Land, living their dream. God could have had Joshua and the previous generation drive out all the opposing enemy nations, but He purposefully left some nations there to teach them warfare. Without this problem, the new generation of Israelites would have eventually faced armies and been defeated. They didn't have the experience, the strength, or the fortitude to overcome. God had to toughen them up. He left obstacles on purpose.

If God made everything easy for us, we wouldn't be ready for where we're going. God has amazing things in your future, things you've never imagined, but to get there you're going to have to defeat some powerful giants, overcome some big obstacles, and outlast some formidable opposition. It's not going to happen if you're weak, disappointed, and bitter. Instead of complaining about what's not turning around, see it as an opportunity to develop your faith. Don't just go through it, grow through it. God's getting you prepared. It's serving His plan.

Father, thank You that You purposefully allow obstacles and problems to come against me for my own good. Thank You that You are building strength and fortitude in me to prepare me for the future. I believe that it is serving Your plan as I walk through it and grow through it. In Jesus' Name, Amen