"Have I not commanded you? Be strong and courageous. Do not be frightened, and do not be dismayed, for the Lord your God is with you wherever you go.” Joshua 1:9 (ESV)
I love the beginning of the year because I get to dive into all kinds of Old Testament stories. I'm reading the Bible in One Year, which basically takes you from Genesis to Revelation in 12 months. I love the story of Joshua. Much hasn't been said about him. I wonder if he knew where God's calling would eventually lead him. I also do not know if Joshua volunteered to serve or if Moses saw something in him.
Either way, by the time we get to verse 9 of his book, Joshua is frightened. I love how God affirms Joshua in his humanity. God says, I know you are frightened and dismayed Joshua but I call you strong and courageous.
God has a specific purpose for Joshua's strength and courage. God's presence is guaranteed when the place Joshua is going matches God's purpose for Joshua and the people of Israel.
I believe God has a specific purpose for you and me. He still calls us to be people of strength and courage as we proceed to go and do what God has called us to do.
During my life in America, I have learned to become familiar with the presence of God going with me everywhere I go. When I arrived here with $200 in my pocket and two suitcases, God was with me. The presence of God has been with me in good days and bad days.
I find that it is important to be fully aware of God's presence on a daily basis. I make sure that happens by making my time with God through prayer, Bible reading and fasting a priority.
God has a specific purpose for the strength and courage He gives us. We need to proceed with boldness to fulfill His purpose in our generation.
Prayer: God you call us to be strong and courageous. Help us to be aware of your presence in our lives. Help us to fulfill the assignment You have given us today. May we glorify you in all we do. In Jesus' name, Amen.
Reflect and Respond: As you go about today, ask yourself, "Am I aware of God's presence?"
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