A Word from Joshua 1

So…here we are at the start of a new work week. Almost undoubtedly, the days ahead will have some challenges—but hopefully, some joys, and growth, and victories, too. And one question worth considering: is “What are the attitudes and the practices that will help us to reach the place we’d like to be by week’s end?”

Thankfully, today’s word from Joshua 1 invites us to draw some guidance and inspiration from a somewhat similar situation. Joshua and the people of Israel weren’t getting ready to enter a new week; but instead, they were preparing to enter a new land! A land filled with potential joys (after all, it was a land “flowing with milk and honey,” the Bible says). But it was also filled with the threat of numerous enemies and obstacles that would have to be overcome.

And so, this is what the Lord said to Joshua about what it would take for him to succeed: “Be strong and very courageous,” the Lord said. “Be careful to obey all the instructions Moses gave you. Do not deviate from them, turning either to the right or to the left. Then you will be successful in everything you do. Study this Book of Instruction continually. Meditate on it day and night so you will be sure to obey everything written in it. Only then will you prosper and succeed in all you do. This is my command—be strong and courageous! Do not be afraid or discouraged. For the Lord your God is with you wherever you go.” (1:7-9)

Naturally, our situation isn’t quite the same as Joshua’s was. And yet, if we obey the Lord’s instructions—if we meditate on His Word day and night, being sure to obey it—and if we allow our faith in Christ to make us strong and very courageous…well, I think we can trust that the Lord our God will be with us wherever we go. And I’m confident that we, too, will reach the place God wants us to be.

So, may you be strong and courageous this week! And may God’s constant presence give you joy. Amen.