Deuteronomy 2:31
“The LORD said to me, ‘See, I have begun to deliver Sihon and his land over to you. Begin to occupy, that you may possess his land.”
God gives us promises. In this case, He told the people that He would give them the land. He tells them the time is now. However, they aren’t walking into a vacant place that’s ready to occupy. As the people come to the border, the king is resistant, looking for a fight. The Lord says that’s evidence that He’s getting ready to give them the land. A struggle awaits them. Sometimes God’s gifts come with effort and struggle.
God has a life time of blessing ahead of us. Yet, to enter into God’s best, we often have to go through difficulties. David is a classic example. He was promised the job as king. He began to receive God’s favor. Goliath was slain. He was winning other battles. The king liked him and invited him to live at the palace. But Saul got jealous and sought to kill him. David was on the run about 13 years. That was part of his process to receive the throne, God’s promise.
Why the struggles?. All of this builds our character and our faith. The role that The Lord has for us requires preparation. We usually need humilty. We also need to learn reliance on God. All of the struggles produce what’s needed.
A word of caution. Some times struggles mean we are in disobediance. When Jesus appeared to the apostle Paul (Saul), he said, “It is hard to kick against the goads.” Paul was receiving all sorts of resistance because he was working against God.
How can we tell the difference between God ordained trials and roadblocks? Are we in obedience to God’s Word? Do we have peace in our hearts? Are we praying for God’s direction? Are our friends (godly ones) in agreement? If yes, then we are in God’s will. It’s usually obvious if we aren’t in His will. We feel very conflicted.
Lord, thank You for Your blessings. Thank You that You are molding us to be better. Help us to be patient.