Introduction

Moving to the Next Level

Today, we will explore the concept of moving to a higher level in life and in our relationship with God. Often, it is the little things that hold us back from reaching our full potential. We will examine the story of Achan and his actions at the city of Jericho.

The Journey of Life

Life is a journey that unfolds in steps. We cannot move to a new level until we have completed the previous one. Sometimes, the transition takes longer than we expect. Just like five-year-old Cindy who thought going to school for one day meant she was done, we can underestimate the time and effort required to move forward.

In our desire to progress, we may want God to expedite our journey through prayer rather than through hard work. However, God has a plan for each of us, and it often involves challenges and growth. We cannot take shortcuts in our spiritual journey if we want to reach a higher level.

The Story of Jericho

Let's travel back in time to the story of Joshua and the Israelites. God had led them out of Egypt and was now ready to give them the land He had promised. Their first major test was conquering the city of Jericho, which had massive walls and seemed impossible to defeat. But God had a plan.

God instructed Joshua to have the entire army march around the city once a day for six days, with seven priests blowing trumpets and carrying the Ark of the Covenant. On the seventh day, they were to march around the city seven times and then shout. Following this plan, the walls of Jericho would collapse, and they would be able to take the city.

However, God also gave a specific command: everything in Jericho was to be destroyed except for items that were to go into the Lord's treasury. Unfortunately, one man named Achan decided to take some forbidden items for himself. He saw a beautiful robe, silver coins, and a gold bar and couldn't resist the temptation.

Consequences of Selfishness

Achan's actions had consequences. When the Israelites later faced the city of Ai, they suffered a humiliating defeat. Joshua and the people were terrified, realizing that they had disobeyed God's command. They held a prayer meeting, and God revealed that someone had taken forbidden items.

Through a process of elimination, Achan was identified as the culprit. He confessed to his wrongdoing, and he and his family were punished. Achan's selfishness had not only hindered his own spiritual growth but had also affected the entire community.

Moving to a Higher Level

God wants to move us to a higher level in our lives, but we must be willing to follow His plan and not take shortcuts. We must be willing to let go of anything that hinders our progress, whether it be material possessions, negative attitudes, or unhealthy relationships.

Moving to a higher level requires a commitment to live a life worthy of God's calling. We must choose to put God first in every aspect of our lives. This may involve letting go of certain behaviors or attitudes that are holding us back. It may require us to forgive others, seek reconciliation, or work harder in certain areas.

We must remember that moving to a higher level is not about material wealth or worldly success. It is about growing in our relationship with God and becoming the person He created us to be. We should not compare ourselves to others or seek validation from the world. Instead, we should focus on pleasing God and living according to His will.

Conclusion

In conclusion, let us examine our lives and identify any areas where we may be taking shortcuts or holding onto things that hinder our spiritual growth. Let us commit to following God's plan and moving to a higher level in our walk with Him. May we live lives worthy of His calling and experience the abundant life He has promised us.

Scripture Passage: Ephesians 4:1 (NIV)

"As a prisoner for the Lord, then, I urge you to live a life worthy of the calling you have received."

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