Last year I went through a bone marrow transplant (BMT). By God’s grace, I didn’t go it alone. Family and friends walked with me through the procedure and subsequent months of recovery. But there was someone else who shared the journey—Sydnie. This precious little girl, a daughter of friends of ours, needed to have a BMT at the same time I did! She was a few hours away and we could connect only by Skype. But the emotional and spiritual connection was real. Both of us together walked through some dark, rushing waters to reach the shore—a promising place of renewed health and life.
The Israelites, troubled by the loss of their leader Moses, had to pass through the waters of the Jordan River to begin their new life in the Promised Land. It meant leaving behind what was known for the unknown. It meant placing one foot in front of the other and boldly moving into a new land—a new way of life.
How did God comfort and encourage Joshua and all the people of Israel? By promising some very special things:
• The place where He was leading them would be their own (Joshua 1:3). When God leads you to a new place, a new work, a new way of life, He will provide what you need.
• They would not go it alone (Joshua 1:5). God will be with us just as He was with Moses, just as He was with Joshua. He will never “fail” or “abandon” us.
• The Word of God would be their guide and lead to success (Joshua 1:7-8). As we soak in the wisdom of God’s Word and apply it, we can know true success by His hand.
What water is God leading you to pass through today? Remember these words: “The Lord your God is with you wherever you go” (Joshua 1:9).
NLT 365-day reading plan passage for today: 2 Samuel 15:1-37
More:
Read Isaiah 43:2. What promises given by God to the prophet bring you hope and courage today?
Next:
What’s keeping you from taking a step of faith with God? Why is it vital for us to immerse ourselves in His Word when we’re facing turbulent waters?
tom felten on April 9, 2012 at 1:36 pm
Just saw Sydnie two weeks ago. She’s doing well and is a true inspiration. Please pray that she will stay cancer free!
daisymarygoldr on April 10, 2012 at 2:19 am
During Easter service at church, people walked across the stage displaying a poster with words that described life before and after Christ. One of our friends’ board read “Cancer” on one side and “survivor” on the other. Many were encouraged and there was an outburst of applause.
It is true believers are never alone. Jesus has not left us as orphans (John 14:18). He has not abandoned us to fight our battles alone through sickness and sufferings of life in this world. After His resurrection Jesus visibly came to the disciples. Today He comes to us as our risen Lord through His Word.
Sometime people wonder why they don’t hear God or don’t see Jesus. Look into the Word. It is through His Word He reveals Himself to us as the One, who gives us victory over Satan, sin, sickness and death. When we immerse ourselves into God’s Word our faith is made strong and it helps us to trust God, even in the darkest hour of suffering.
Thanks Tom Felten for being an inspiration to all of us. Both you and Sydnie are in my prayers.
tom felten on April 10, 2012 at 8:22 am
Good thoughts, daisymarygoldr! Yes, we hear God as we turn to His Word. Can’t tell you how many times a specific verse or chapter has provided just what I needed for that day! It’s so good to have you in the ODJ community. Thanks so much for your prayers.
GChoo on April 10, 2012 at 7:49 am
Tom, thank you for reminding us how wonderful a God we have when we learn to trust in His unfailing love. Your sharing have definitely encouraged and continued to deepen my walk with God.
Daisymarygoldr, as always i am really appreciative of your willingness to share your knowledge of God and your relationship with Him. May God continue to bless you and your family.
Tom, keeping you and Sydnie in prayers.
tom felten on April 10, 2012 at 8:25 am
GChoo, I’m so thankful that we can encourage one another through the amazing technology God has allowed people to create! May God continue to grow all of our faith in Him as we pursue Him.