Two-minute read.
Today’s verse marks the peaceful transition of power. Moses, 120 years old, has fulfilled his mission, leading the people for 40 years in the wilderness; they have arrived at the Promised Land. But because of an earlier act of disobedience, God told Moses he wouldn’t enter the new land. The Lord chose Joshua to lead the people across the Jordan, an overwhelming task for the young leader.
Moses spoke these words to Joshua and all Israel, letting them know God Himself would go before them every step of the way.
God never sends His people where He has not already gone.
While in the wilderness, the Lord led the people with a cloud by day and fire by night. Before Joshua ever crossed the Jordan River, God had established His presence with them. The Lord created a way before they ever encountered the rushing waters or the battles that awaited them. God had already planned the victory long before they took their first step.
Our heavenly Father doesn’t simply point us in the right direction and wish us well. He goes ahead of us, preparing circumstances, opening doors, removing obstacles, and accomplishing His purposes. Not only does He go ahead of us, but the Lord walks beside us as well.
Throughout Scripture, we see God’s presence. The Lord showed up for Joseph in prison, David on the battlefield, and Daniel in the Lion’s den. When the disciples found themselves in the middle of a storm, Jesus endured it with them. God promises the same thing to us today: the Holy Spirit, who never leaves us. We don’t avoid hardship because of the Father’s presence, but we will never have to face it alone.
The Creator promises never to fail us or abandon us. People will disappoint us. Plans fall apart. Circumstances change. But God’s character never does. The Lord never loosens His grip on His people.
Because God goes before us, we can face uncertainty with confidence and move forward without despair. Even when we feel inadequate, the Lord’s presence will give us the strength to persevere. Courage doesn’t mean the absence of fear; rather, it means choosing to trust God’s presence more than our circumstances.
Journal Questions:
- What future concern weighs on you?
- How does God’s presence calm your fears?
- What step of courage can you take today?
Stressbuster:
Write down your fears and pray over them.
