Complaining or Expecting Victory?

“Yet you were not willing to go up, but rebelled against the command of the LORD your God; and you grumbled . . . . ‘Our brethren have made our hearts melt, saying, “The people are bigger and taller than we; the cities are large and fortified to heaven. And besides, we saw the sons of the Anakim there.”’” Deuteronomy 1:26-28 NASB

History has not been kind to George McClellan. Early in the American Civil War, he was promoted to commander of the northern armies. But he never seemed able to deliver victories. For example, on this day in 1862, after the campaign on the Virginia peninsula, he wired Secretary of the Army Stanton that he could not be blamed for his army’s defeat in that battle. He blamed the government which “has not sustained this army.” He lost “because my force was too small.” The only hope, he said, was providing more troops.

But McClellan did not realize that, in fact, his forces in that battle substantially outnumbered those of his adversary. While he complained, the leaders of the rival South army had realized that they needed to be shrewd and innovative with the resources they did have.

Too many Christians are like McClellan, not experiencing victory because they are busy complaining, and quick to form judgments based on their own subjective assumptions.

They also are like the children of Israel before entering the Promised Land. God had miraculously delivered them from Egypt. He had promised that He would bring them into this land, and demonstrated His miracle – working power. Yet they continued to complain and expect defeat.

Today, remember that God already has given you everything you need for victory. His Word. His Spirit. His promises. You just need to have faith, trust Him, and apply the resources He has given you. Don’t give in to complaining, but start thanking Him. Move forward in faith. Declare victory.

Prayer: Father, forgive me for complaining and expecting defeat. I believe You can do anything. I trust You. Show me how to use the resources You have given me for victory. In Jesus’ name. Amen.