I AM with you
Joshua 1:9 Have I not commanded you? Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged, for the Lord your God will be with you wherever you go.
When Joshua was commissioned as Moses’ successor, he faced a tremendous challenge – to bring the Israelites into the Promised Land. The responsibility was huge, and based on the Lord’s repeated commands to “be strong and courageous,” it would be understandable that Joshua probably did not feel up to the task.
At one time or another, we all face obstacles that seem insurmountable. The question is - how will we respond? We may try to push through or manipulate our way around the barriers. We may be tempted to give up, feeling overwhelmed and hopeless. But the Lord wants us to trust Him to remove or guide us over, around or through each of life’s hurdles.
Scripture tells us over and over that nothing is too difficult for the Lord, but fear and worry reveal our doubts. By focusing on the problem, we allow it to grow and block our view of almighty God.
Knowing the difficulty of Joshua’s assignment, the Lord assured him that he would be successful in completing the mission. God removed every barrier that stood between the Israelites and the land He had promised to give them. Joshua’s job was to believe the Lord and carefully obey His commands.
Obstacles are one way that our faith can grow. When we are confused and cannot see how God can work out a problem, we can pray that He will not let us give in to feeling defeated, but rely in Him. God will make us strong and courageous as He shows us His way of obedience and trust. God always keeps His promises.