We’re in that sweet season of hope and possibilities. No matter how difficult the year may have been, most of us hope for a better and brighter new year. At the end of last year, I knew I would be juggling my job along with the daunting task of handling the responsibilities of a colleague who was going on maternity leave.
With the death of Moses, Joshua was facing a far greater and daunting responsibility—leading the Israelites into the Promised Land (Joshua 1:1-2). God had used Moses to perform awe-inspiring miracles before a stubborn Pharaoh and to lead His people out of slavery in Egypt and into a place of provision in the desert for 40 years. The people shared the promised hope of entering a land flowing with milk and honey. The legacy of Moses must have been intimidating to follow. No wonder God repeatedly addressed Joshua’s fear, urging him to “be strong and courageous” (Joshua 1:6-7,9).
Joshua’s success as leader of the nation of Israel depended, however, on his obedience to the Lord (Joshua 1:7). God revealed that it was vital for him to study and meditate on His Word, and to be careful to obey everything in it. Only by depending on God and His great power could Joshua find success (Joshua 1:8).
Although I’ve grappled with the additional responsibilities of covering a maternity leave this year, I’ve also grown as a person, gaining experience in areas I would never have had the opportunity to develop. God has proved faithful as I’ve strived to study and follow His Word.
This new year, let’s spend time reading Scripture, walking in obedience to Him, and being strong and courageous. Don’t be afraid or discouraged; remember the Lord your God is with you wherever you go! (Joshua 1:9).
NLT 365-day reading plan passage for today: Revelation 1:1-20
More:
Read Isaiah 41:10 and be reminded that you don’t need to fear or be dismayed, for God is with you.
Next:
As you anticipate the arrival of a new year, is there something you’re fearful of and anxious about? How does courage flow from a clear understanding of who God is and what He’s called us to do?
Marlena Graves on December 29, 2015 at 12:11 am
In can feel very intimidating to take on more than we think we can handle. But if it’s God’s assignment, we must trust. And as you said, ‘Joshua’s success as leader of the nation of Israel depended, however, on his obedience to the Lord.’ It’s the same with our success. Yes, we need some skill and ability. But most important of all is obedience in that skill and ability. Some have skills and ability without obedience. That makes for a train wreck.
Ruth O'reilly-smith on December 29, 2015 at 1:43 pm
Absolutely Marlena. The key is in knowing God’s will and then walking in obedience to it: “Don’t copy the behavior and customs of this world, but let God transform you into a new person by changing the way you think. Then you will learn to know God’s will for you, which is good and pleasing and perfect” (Romans 12:2).
Gary Shultz on December 29, 2015 at 7:09 am
If I may, I’ll share a saying I have about following someone. It is meant to be humorous; however, it is often true “It doesn’t matter how good you are, it all depends who you follow”. And that saying can work for the good and for the bad. When God makes the call it matters little where we find ourselves in life, He asks us to obey and as Joshua great things were accomplished for God and His people. Thanks Ruth, may God’s blessings unfold for you this New Year.
Ruth O'reilly-smith on December 29, 2015 at 1:57 pm
I agree Gary. I’m also reminded that our Heavenly Father longs for us to step out in obedience to Him as we trust Him, especially when what He requires of us, pushes us out of our comfort zone, and just beyond our own ability. God reminded Zerubbabel and He still reminds us today that it’s; “not by might nor by power, but by My Spirit” (Zechariah 4:6).
Tom Felten on December 29, 2015 at 9:27 am
Ruth, as I consider your encouraging and challenging words, I’m reminded that regardless of the situation how we approach it and where we place our confidence makes all the difference. May we all experience peace and hope as we face trials and tests in 2016—peace and hope that springs from a deep trust and confidence in our loving God!
Ruth O'reilly-smith on December 29, 2015 at 2:04 pm
This is my sincere prayer Tom – may our peace and hope be rooted in a confident trust in our loving Heavenly Father every day, no matter the circumstance.