Soon we will seem to have more freedom to choose. How much unhealed emotional pain and sin problems do you think we can afford to take with us into our promised land? The answer is none. Any shred of undealt with flesh or sin left intact can lead to not only our downfall, but to the downfall of those who are walking with us, so you can see why God cannot afford to cut any corners back here. The wilderness carries its own challenges of trusting God when you have no apparent control or security so as we enter our promised land ministry we will have to be extra careful not to turn back again to old idolatry habits just because we think we have more of an ability to do so.

JOS 22:20 When Achan son of Zerah acted unfaithfully regarding the devoted things, did not wrath come upon the whole community of Israel? He was not the only one who died for his sin.' "

  Our actions and choices will soon affect many other people. You have heard the expression "We are not out of the woods yet" and that will apply to all of us who are now leaving our wilderness time. The lessons we have learned in the wilderness were meant to help carry us through the battles of our promised land. God wants us to all be whole together so we are not just waiting on ourselves, but on each other as well. Trust that everything God is doing in your life right now is absolutely necessary for your journey ahead and try not to grumble, complain, or rebel when things get tough. Be patient as God puts the finishing touches on your "whole-iness" and move forward.

1PE 1:13 Therefore, prepare your minds for action; be self-controlled; set your hope fully on the grace to be given you when Jesus Christ is revealed. 14  As obedient children, do not conform to the evil desires you had when you lived in ignorance. 15 But just as he who called you is holy, so be holy in all you do; 16 for it is written: "Be holy, because I am holy."