Message from Scripture: 9/22/2020

Our message from Scripture today is Josh 1:9. ^“Have I not commanded you? Be strong and courageous! Do not tremble or be dismayed, for the LORD your God is with you wherever you go.”

Following in the shoes of another can be a challenging thing to do, depending on who it is you’re following. Imagine how Joshua must have felt, then, knowing he was following Moses, to actually bring the children of Israel into the promised land. He had seen all the effort it took Moses to lead the people to this point in time. How would be able to complete the task of allowing the Israelites to take possession of the land God would give them? In asking that question, we can also ask ourselves what will it take for us to be faithful to God, to take possession of eternal life which He offers us in Christ?

Joshua had the challenge to see what God would do for him. What he had worked out for Moses was one thing. What would God provide for him to finish the task? He needed to understand the God who worked in other victorious experiences in Egypt, at the Red Sea, and against Amalek would use that same power on his behalf. So it is for us as well. The God who has brought us through our difficulties to this point in time is the same God who will help us through our challenges and trials today. Paul said, “He has delivered us from such a terrible death, and he will deliver us. We have put our hope in him that he will deliver us again” (2 Cor. 1:10). He’s the same God at work in our lives.

Joshua also needed to know God always stands behind his Word, His promises, and His assurances. Joshua could look back after the conquest and say, “I am now going the way of the whole earth, and you know with all your heart and all your soul that none of the good promises the Lord your God made to you has failed. Everything was fulfilled for you; not one promise has failed” (Josh. 23:14). Our assurance should be like that which Paul had. “I am sure of this, that he who started a good work in you will carry it on to completion until the day of Christ Jesus” (Phil. 1:6).

Faith truly is the victory (1 John 5:4). Live by faith and see all the great things God can accomplish in your life, today, tomorrow, always. God bless.

Robert