“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
Imagine – the greatest leader that you’ve ever known has just died.
This was the leader who was responsible for the liberation of your nation – a moment for the history books. He was also your spiritual and professional mentor, a man of influence, and great respect. Now that he’s gone, everyone is looking to you. Can you feel the weight of this new responsibility, the intense pressure weighing heavy on your shoulders?
After Moses died, all eyes turned toward Joshua.
Even though Joshua had been groomed for this very moment – this is an intimidating promotion. This is the moment when God spoke directly to the heart of Joshua’s insecurities:
“Be strong and courageous. Do not be frightened, and do not be dismayed, for the Lord your God is with you wherever you go.”
Isn’t it amazing that when God nudges Joshua outside his comfort zone, He doesn’t send him alone? God knows that Joshua is feeling overwhelmed, doubting himself, and probably questioning if he’s the right guy for the job. So, God reminds him of a promise:
No matter where he goes, God is right there.
No matter what happens, God is right there.
We’ve all experienced fear, insecurity, and doubt. Think back to the first day of a new job. What about before the launch of a new product campaign? We’ve even overanalyzed, second-guessed, and picked apart a relationship a time or two because of our own self-doubts.
What does it look like in your life? Whenever these emotions tempt you to second guess where God is leading – silence them with the same promise God gave to Joshua.
You are not alone. God will never leave you. He will never give up on you. You can trust Him as you follow where He leads.
The same promise that God offered to Joshua is offered to every follower of Jesus. If you’ve never experienced the peace and confidence that comes from knowing you’re not alone, then today you can.
This promise is available to everyone – you need only to ask.
Adapted from a sermon by Senior Pastor George Wright, Senior Pastor, Shades Mountain Baptist Church
DIG DEEPER
Read “To Have the Courage of Daniel” by Bryant Wright
