Pastor's Corner: Focus on God, and let Him lead

Be strong and courageous, do not be afraid, for the Lord your God is with you! These were the words spoken to Joshua after the death of Moses as God is telling him that he will now lead the Israelites into the promised land.

Joshua had been born into this environment, he has trained as a general, prayed as a warrior and studied as a leader, day in and day out. He was being prepared for this moment for more than 80 years; through all the ups and downs, he recognized God’s promise and His voice the entire time. Even amidst all of that, God continues to tell him to be strong and courageous, do not be afraid.

In fact, the grammar in Joshua 1:6-9 shows us insight to the conversation back and forth between God and Joshua. There was some clear discussion between them about taking this next step – so much so that God had to instruct Joshua to be strong and courageous three times.

So often we question ourselves. We question the next steps; we fear the unknown. And I love the realness of the conversation here, because we are all human, and we truly need to be willing to talk with God as His word shows.

Joshua, through all of his training, is still telling God that he is concerned about this next step, worried he might make a bad decision, the wrong turn, or better yet, lead all the people to a place away from God himself. Yet God continues to tell him: Be strong and courageous, do not be afraid.

When you feel as though you are not ready, God knows what he is doing. He has prepared you to take that next step forward, knowing that if you follow his decrees, his word, the infallible truth of scripture, that He will make sure you are moving in the right direction. We have purpose without limits in God; it is us who gets in our own way. Not following Him, listening, studying, praying, we are our own worst enemy.

But Joshua did exactly what he was trained to do, leading the people of Israel to the promised land, giving them what was promised to them hundreds of years earlier. And for each of you, God’s not done with you, we just need to follow His word and let Him lead us forward. The promise of God is true, and without limits, we just need to focus on Him in all things and have patience in God’s perfect timing.

Joshua said this toward the latter end of his life, and I want to leave you with it:

“…But as for me and my family, we will serve the Lord.” Joshua 24:15b

Do what is right in the Lord’s sight, lead your family with purpose and word, advocate for those in need, and serve with humility. Your promise is in God and through God, and in Him you will see it succeed.

Joshua led his family, and ensured the family unit was successful at all cost. Prepare your family, be ready for the call, and in all things serve with boldness and courage.

Purpose without limitation!