Week of 1/6-1/12: Develops - God Gives a Home

Day One: Joshua 1:6-9 “Be strong and courageous, for you will distribute the land I swore to their fathers to give them as an inheritance. Above all, be strong and very courageous to carefully observe the whole instruction My servant Moses commanded you. Do not turn from it to the right or the left, so that you will have success wherever you go. This book of instruction must not depart from your mouth; you are to recite it day and night, so that you may carefully observe everything written in it. For then you will prosper and succeed in whatever you do. Haven’t I commanded you: be strong and courageous? Do not be afraid or discouraged, for the LORD your God is with you wherever you go.”

Read the beginning of the story, Joshua 1:1-5, in your Bible.

THE CURRENT WAS STRONG and the waves were rough at the beach the day that 59-year-old Elizabeth decided to swim. The longer she spent in the water, the further the current dragged her away from shore, until it was too late. Elizabeth fought hard, flailing her frail arms and legs in an effort to make it back, but wave after wave pummeled her into submission. Just as her mouth filled with salt water, a hand reached out and pulled her up. The stranger, a 15-year-old boy fishing nearby, was the only one to come to her rescue. “Don’t be afraid; I’m here with you,” he said as he brought her to safety.

God uses similar words to encourage us. In today’s passage, He encouraged Joshua, who was also caught in a seemingly rough spot. Moses, the leader of the Israelites, had just passed away and God was appointing Joshua to lead 2 million nomads across the Jordan River. Talk about an interesting first assignment! Not to mention, the river was at flood stage during this time. In spite of these challenges, God still delivered the Israelites and saw Joshua through: “Haven’t I commanded you: be strong and courageous? Do not be afraid or discouraged, for the LORD your God is with you wherever you go.”

God does not promise He will not lead you into fearful situations. He may ask you to stand against the tide of popular opinion at school, to be Christ to a stranger, or to even serve Him in a land far away. But He does promise to always be with you. And He always keeps His promises. Today, be ready to step into the river. He is faithful. Be strong and courageous.

PAUSE AND REFLECT

▷▷What would you do if you were in Joshua’s position?

▷▷How is God calling you to serve Him at school, church, etc.? How can others hold you accountable?

▷▷How can you encourage the leaders around you and those who are over you?