This message was given at Casey
Message Title: It’s Time to Step In Introduction We are in a season of stepping into the new - both as individuals and as a church. Just as God called the Israelites to step into the Promised Land, He is calling us to move forward in faith today. But before we can fully step into His promises, we must allow Him to refine our hearts and remove anything that is blocking us.
We will explore the journey of the Israelites, the obstacles that held them back, and the faith required to move forward.
1. The Journey to the Promise Key Passages: Exodus 16, 17; Numbers 13-14 (these can just be referred to, they don’t have to be read)
Highlight: The Israelites’ journey was not just physical; it was a process of refining their faith and trust in God.
• Egypt (Slavery) > Red Sea (Breakthrough) > Wilderness (Refining) > Promised Land (Abundance)
• God provided daily manna and water from the rock: miraculous provision by God to the Israelites during their 40 years of wandering in the wilderness after their escape from Egypt. These represent both physical provision and is a symbol of God’s faithfulness
• The cloud by day and fire by night: This visible guidance was a constant reminder that God was with them, leading them in their journey.
• They experienced many victories: Victory Over Pharaoh and the Egyptian Army (The Exodus), Victory at the Bitter Waters of Marah, Victory Over the Amalekites who attacked them shortly after they left Egypt etc
• Despite all of these things their hearts still struggled to trust Him.
Reflection Questions: 1. What are some areas in your life where you need to trust God more, even when the journey feels uncertain or challenging?
2. Looking back at God's provision and faithfulness in your past, how can you step forward in faith and embrace the promises He has for you today?
2. Fear Blocked Their Breakthrough Key Passage: Numbers 13:25-33; Numbers 14:1-10 (these can just be referred to, they don’t have to be read)
Highlight: When the Israelites first approached the Promised Land, 10 out of 12 spies came back with fear-filled reports. A whole generation missed their promise because of mindsets that held them back. Instead of stepping forward in faith, they focused on the obstacles:
. Fear – They believed the enemy was stronger than God.
. Focus – They fixated on problems instead of God’s promises.
. Comparison – They saw themselves as weak rather than trusting in God’s strength.
. Comfort of the Past – They longed for Egypt instead of trusting in God’s future for them.
. Lack of Trust – Despite God’s faithfulness, they still doubted.
Reflection Questions: 1. Fear: How can fear of challenges or obstacles prevent us from stepping into God's promises? In what areas of your life are you allowing fear to dictate your steps of faith and trust in God?
2. Focus: The Israelites focused on their problems instead of God’s promises. How can we shift our focus from our difficulties to God’s faithfulness and promises in our own lives
3. Comparison: The Israelites saw themselves as weak compared to the giants in the land. How does comparison with others hinder us from trusting in God's strength and stepping forward in faith? What are some of the ways we compare yourself with others? (encourage personal sharing)
4. Comfort of the Past: The Israelites longed for Egypt, even though it was a place of oppression. What are some "comforts of the past" in our own lives that might be holding us back from trusting God’s future for us?
5. Lack of Trust: Despite all God’s previous miracles, the Israelites still doubted. What are some areas/situations where we find ourselves wanting to take control rather than trusting God?
6. Mindsets: How do mindsets of fear, comparison, or doubt influence the way we approach challenges in our lives? How can we replace these mindsets with faith and trust in God's promises?
3. Stepping Forward in Faith Key Passage: Joshua 1:1-9
Highlight: After 40 years, a new generation stood before the Promised Land. This time, God commissioned Joshua: “Be strong and courageous! Do not be afraid or discouraged. For the Lord your God is with you wherever you go.” (Joshua 1:9)
. Joshua and Caleb chose faith over fear.
. The Israelites had to step into the Jordan River before it parted—faith requires action.
. God promised, “Wherever you set foot, I have given you.”
Reflection Questions: 1. What is one area where God is calling you to be strong and courageous right now?
2. Joshua had to step forward before seeing the miracle. Where do you need to take a step of faith?
3. What would it look like for you to fully trust God’s promise in your life today?
Conclusion: God is calling us into new territory. Just as He called the Israelites forward, He is calling you today. Will you let go of fear and step into His promises?
Final Prayer: Lord, we come before You with open hearts, asking for Your divine strength and guidance. We trust that You are always with us, even in the moments when fear and doubt try to take root. Remove any obstacles, mindsets, or insecurities that are holding us back from fully embracing Your promises. Fill us with unwavering faith, courage, and boldness to step into all that You have prepared for us. We surrender our fears to You, knowing that You are bigger than every challenge. Help us to walk forward in the full confidence of Your love, provision, and faithfulness. We believe that with You, all things are possible. In Jesus' name, Amen.
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