“Then Moses summoned Joshua and said to him …, ‘Be strong and courageous …. The LORD himself goes before you and will be with you; he will never leave you nor forsake you. Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged.’”
Deuteronomy 31:7-8
Moses was passing the leadership of the nation of Israel to Joshua who was reassured by these powerful words. Joshua 1 repeats God’s emboldening words to Joshua. As he moved his people through difficult times, he saw God’s faithfulness and knew His personal presence.
During my college years, I wrestled with direction for my life. At a weekend conference in Mission Springs, California, I heard a message from the New Testament book of Philippians reminding me, “The God of peace will be with you” (4:9). God used these words, as well as Joshua 1:7-8, etched forever in my heart, to clarify where my next steps should be. Through my years as a missionary, pastor, and chaplain, God’s faithfulness has abounded. Ministry continues now even into my older age as a chaplain to the law enforcement family.
God needs men and women who will be strong not in their own abilities, but in Him. He calls us to follow Him and persevere in faith. No matter how weak or ill-equipped we might feel, He promises to be with us wherever we go.
During my college years, I wrestled with direction for my life. At a weekend conference in Mission Springs, California, I heard a message from the New Testament book of Philippians reminding me, “The God of peace will be with you” (4:9). God used these words, as well as Joshua 1:7-8, etched forever in my heart, to clarify where my next steps should be. Through my years as a missionary, pastor, and chaplain, God’s faithfulness has abounded. Ministry continues now even into my older age as a chaplain to the law enforcement family.
God needs men and women who will be strong not in their own abilities, but in Him. He calls us to follow Him and persevere in faith. No matter how weak or ill-equipped we might feel, He promises to be with us wherever we go.
Scripture Focus
Deuteronomy 31:1-9
Insight
Remember that God equips us with everything to fulfill His purpose in our life.
Bible In A Year
- Ezekiel 13-14
- Psalm 137
- Ephesians 5-6
