In Joshua, the theme or phrase that is seen repeatedly is be strong and of good courage. Joshua is told by God to stay strong in God. Basically, Joshua is to keep trusting in God. Joshua is being commanded by God to move forward and take the land that is promised unto them. And God keeps saying to trust in Him an stay strong. Keep the faith because He is with Him. Many times God gives a word or a promise for us to pursue. Many times fear or an obstacle steps in our pathway. Unfortunately, we allow that situation to stop us from moving. We don't realize who we serve. We limit Gods power by not allowing Him to move us to where we need to go. We don't allow God to work miracles and open doors on our behalf. Is there a job or something God has promised you that something is blocking your vision? Did God promise you that job or opportunity? So, why are you letting some situation stop you from receiving what God has given and promised you? Where is your faith? Why are you not calling on God? Be of good courage and be strong in the Lord.
Joshua sends two spies to check out the city of Jericho. Now, this city was blocking their view of their destination. Instead of Joshua allowing it to stop them, he sent two spies into the city. Because Joshua trusted in God, the two spies met a harlot who helped them escape safely and asked for her family to be saved. She heard what miracles had been performed and stepped out in faith. In this process, doors opened for both parties. For Joshua, the two spies got away safely thanks to the lady. And to the lady, she received the opportunity to be saved at the end of the destruction of Jericho. When you trust God and act upon his will, you never know what doors will open up and you never know what He has in store for your life. Just gotta stay strong and trust God!!
Now, in Acts, the apostles were being persecuted for preaching the gospel. But, they were doing it because God called them to do it. God assigned them to preach the good news to the world. These apostles went around the world and were scattered. However, they trusted God for Him to make ways. In the process of their obedience, God led people to them that were hungry for God. As Christians, God is going to lead us to people that are hungry for God. As his children, we have an obligation to help those in need of hearing the word. Luckily, we don't receive persecutions like the apostles do. We are not crucified or poisoned or stoned. The worst we get now is attitudes or being made fun of. As Christians, we need to remember to trust God and let Him lead us.
For those that are waiting on God for direction, just trust God. Sometimes God just wants his people to just wait on God. Have you ever prayed fervently and tried different options to get the answer from God? When you do all that you can, stand on the promises of God. Keep trusting God and just stand on Him. Donnie McClurkin sang it best!!! After you've done all you can, you just stand!!!
Recently, I was pulled from a program that dealt with my future. It devastated me and shame came all over me. I didn't know what to do with myself. I prayed unto God and just asked for direction. I kept asking for his perfect will to be done. And I kept praying. I asked others to pray with me. Eventually, I got to the point where I stopped stressing and gave the shame that I had to God and let Him lead my life. Honestly, once I fully trusted God and just stood on Gods word, I received peace and understanding. I encourage you that if a stumbling block gets in your way of your purpose or promise, be strong and let God have His way.
Stay blessed and be strong!!!
"This book of the law shall not depart out of thy mouth; but thou shalt meditate therein day and night, that thou mayest observe to do according to all that is written therein: for then thou shalt make thy way prosperous, and then thou shalt have good success. Have not I commanded thee? Be strong and of a good courage; be not afraid, neither be thou dismayed: for the Lord thy God is with thee whithersoever thou goest. "
Joshua 1:8-9
Salvation Sundays: Steven Gable
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