Read: Joshua 1:1-9
Be strong and courageous. Do not be frightened, and do not be dismayed, for the LORD your God is with you wherever you go. (v. 9)
On October 10, 2018, Michael slammed into the Florida gulf-coastline as a Category 4 hurricane with 155 mph winds. The tiny town of Mexico Beach was ravaged. Blocks of buildings were wiped away, with only littered foundations as evidence they had existed. An RV park looked like a child’s cast-off toys. The public pier and entire streets were washed away. Debris was everywhere.
Sometimes, storms in our lives drastically transform our landscape, causing us to lose perspective. Major changes like changing jobs, parenthood, disability, moving across the country, retirement, or the death of a loved one can leave us feeling adrift from recognizable landmarks.
When Joshua led the Israelites across the Jordan into the promised land, they left a life in the wilderness where God had provided for and protected them every day. They were entering a fertile land where they would cultivate crops and raise livestock. God told Joshua three times to “be strong and courageous” (vv. 6, 9, 18) when he commissioned him to lead the nation to inherit the land. God would be with them every step of the way. And God promises the same to us when we keep our heart and mind tuned to him and pioneer into new life territory. Though our landmarks may be transformed, God is with us wherever we go.
As you pray, be strong and courageous and trust that God is with you when your landscape of life transforms.
About the Author
Donna M. Harold is retired from a career in accounting and consulting and lives in Tampa, Florida, with her husband and two cats. She serves as treasurer for her church, creates and facilitates Bible studies, and enjoys writing, mosaicking, and quilting.
