Courage in the Face of the Unknown
Josh 1:9
9 “Have I not commanded you? Be strong and courageous. Do not be terrified; do not be discouraged, for the Lord your God will be with you wherever you go.”
NIV
I love, love, love taking a trip. I enjoy the excitement and thrill of an adventure that lies before me. I relish seeing new sights and exploring landmarks and natural wonders. I almost enjoy speculating about what lies ahead even as much as the thing itself. I research our destination, area attractions, free stuff, parks, and even unusual places to eat. I build it up in my mind, and usually the activity lives up to my expectation.
This picture of the pedestrian bridge in Chattanooga was one of the “must see’s” I had on my list when we visited last fall. I read about all the neat things we could get to, if we trekked across the water- interesting shops, places to eat, an antique carousel that had been restored by hand. It all sounded marvelous to me. I worried a little about my mom, who has some impairment to her mobility. We strategized on ways to make it work for her. You can imagine my surprise- and chagrin- when we realized that she could have driven to the same places and not have had to endure a painful walk. That is just one of those things that happen when you do not know where you are going!
I love this verse in Joshua, because it gives me courage whenever the unknown lies ahead of me. The Lord first gave me this verse when I was a bright-eyed 24-year-old college graduate, taking my first job in mental health. I was frightened of what lay ahead. I did not particularly want to leave my toddler at home and go out into the work-force. But for some reason, the Lord had opened this door for me and assured me that it was His will for my life. This verse assured me that as I stepped out into the unknown, He would be with me. I would not take a single step without Him. Oh, how I clung to this verse many mornings!
Years later, the same verses would come back to mind when I stepped out into a venture to be a solo practitioner of social work in a new field. I could not imagine how I would ever learn all of the new things before me. Especially tricky computer maneuvers in a frightening Medicaid system. That was 13 years ago. I must admit there are days I still am not sure of what I am doing! But God has been faithful through it all.
I used job-related changes as an example of how this verse has impacted my life. But it has seen me through many transitions over my life. Each time I cling to this verse, I receive an impartation of strength and a “can-do” attitude that does not originate within me.
Imagine how Joshua must have felt. Moses, their faithful leader, was dead. Joshua had seen the disappointments and heartache of leadership that Moses had endured. He had witnessed the people’s rebellion against this great leader and how it had sent them back into the desert for 40 years. All of that probably did not inspire Joshua to want to apply for the position as the “next great leader of Israel”. But God had hand-picked him for the job. Because of that, he had all that he needed to succeed. And succeed he would, as long as he relied upon the strong, right hand of Almighty God.
What are you feeling called to these days? Do you sense a change of direction coming? Is there a sense of destiny on your horizon? Do you perceive a “fork in the road”? If so, today’s verse is hand-picked by God for you. He knows where you are. He understands your fears. Gently, tenderly, He calls with a reassuring hand upon your shoulder, “Do not be afraid. I am with you, my child.”
Dear Lord, life overwhelms me at times. I feel lost at sea and need you to guide and direct me in the path that you have chosen for me. Enable me, O God, to receive your strength and courage. Help the voices of doubt to be dimmed, and allow me to hear Your reassuring voice above all others. In Jesus’ Name. Amen.
Sherri, this is perfect for my life right now. My phrase for this year is New Beginnings because The Lord put me on a different path over the past year, one I didn’t see coming. I’ll be writing about it here next month. Thank you for sharing your story. Oh, I went across that bridge for the first time last summer. Went to the carousel and the fountains which my grandkids loved playing in.
Blessings.
Sherri, I must agree with Marsha, this post is perfect and just what I need for this season in my life. Thank you for sharing.
Great post.
The Lord is soo good and faithful! It’s as if,like you said, this verse was hand picked for me. God has been opening new doors for myself and my family. It’s a little scary and uncertain since we do not know all the details,but I am thankful that God goes before us,with us and behind us. Thank you for sharing with us today!
Joshua 1:9 is my verse for 2014. And Joshua is my favorite person of the Old Testament. I am sure that he was afraid, but he also knew that God would be with him all the way. That I see at great faith. I hope that I have just an ounce of that faith and follow where God leads.
Great post and good timing for me as well!
Thank you all so much for the encouragement! I have been away at a Women’s Conference trying to discern the new direction for my life as well. He is so faithful to watch over and guide us! Why do I struggle with fear and confusion?! Praying He “turns the darkness to light before you and makes the rough places smooth.” Great things are ahead! I look forward to reading your testimonies.