THE PROMISE STILL STANDS: Faithfulness Through the Desert

What happens when you do the right thing the wrong way? Moses hit the rock when he should have spoken to it, costing him his entry into the Promised Land. But as C. Atkinson explores through a modern-day "nursing board" success story, God's ultimate promise to us isn't based on our perfection, but on His faithfulness. Discover how to stay encouraged even when you face the consequences of your mistakes.

C. Atkinson

10/1/20233 min read

a metal object sitting on top of a sandy beach

“But the Lord said to Moses and Aaron, ‘Because you did not trust me enough to demonstrate my holiness to the people of Israel, you will not lead them into the land I am giving them!’” — Numbers 20:12 (NLT)

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It is truly a good thing to give thanks unto the Lord as we continue to spread the Good News. In this life, we will have many opportunities to share our testimonies with friends, family, and even strangers. Despite the chaos in the world or the hardships in our personal lives, maintaining the peace of God can be a challenge. However, Isaiah 26:3 reminds us that God keeps those in perfect peace whose minds are stayed on Him.

The Joy of a Shared Victory

Sometimes, we need a reminder from our brothers and sisters in Christ. Last week, I saw a "Praise Report" from a sister who finally passed her nursing boards. The moment I saw the word "PASSED," my heart leaped. I was driving to an appointment and found myself overwhelmed with tears of joy. The presence of the Lord felt so rich as I witnessed His promise coming to pass in her life.

She had failed the exam the first time and felt deeply discouraged, but she persevered. She held onto the promises of God, and on her second attempt, she saw the victory. In that moment, I was reminded of the importance of celebrating others. Whether in good times or bad, we must believe that all things work together for the glory of God.

Lessons from the Rock

Reflecting on her testimony brought me to the story of Moses. Moses was a leader of exemplary faith, chosen to deliver an entire nation from slavery. He saw miracles, signs, and wonders firsthand. Yet, Moses was not allowed to enter the physical Promised Land.

In Numbers 20, we see why: Moses allowed his flesh—his anger and frustration with the people—to override God's direct instructions. God told him to speak to the rock; instead, Moses struck the rock and shouted, "Must we bring you water?"

By saying "we," Moses failed to give God the glory and failed to demonstrate His holiness. How often do we try to take things into our own hands? Philippians 4:6-7 tells us to be anxious for nothing, but to bring everything to God in prayer with thanksgiving. Our role is not to control the outcome, but to submit to His commands.

The Grace to Get Back Up

We might look at Moses and think we would have done better, but truthfully, under that much pressure, many of us might have responded worse. The beauty of Moses' journey is that even though he faced a earthly consequence, he never lost his faith. He accepted the correction and continued to lead with confidence.

The Word of God encourages us that even if we trip, we must get back up. Proverbs 24:16 says, "The godly may trip seven times, but they will get up again." Moses used his remaining time to teach the people the importance of humility, self-control, and holiness.

An Eternal Perspective

Moses died on Mount Nebo at 120 years old, looking out at the land he couldn't enter. While he missed the physical destination, he didn't miss the ultimate one. This world is not our home; we are just pilgrims passing through.

Jesus gave us a promise that still stands today:

“Don’t let your heart be troubled. Trust in God, and trust also in me... I am going to prepare a place for you... so that you will always be with me where I am.” (John 14:1-3)

Whether you are facing a "nursing board" moment or a "wilderness" season, remember that God is in total control. Pass the test of faith by giving thanks in everything (1 Thessalonians 5:18). Even when our earthly plans change, His eternal promise remains unshakable.

Be of good cheer and hold on—the promise still stands.

Focus Verse of the Week

“Then if my people who are called by my name will humble themselves and pray and seek my face and turn from their wicked ways, I will hear from heaven and will forgive their sins and restore their land.” — 2 Chronicles 7:14