The Great Challenge

by Heather Tietz

“Be strong and courageous; for you shall cause this people to inherit the land which I swore to their fathers to give them. Only be strong and very courageous, to observe to do according to all the law, which Moses my servant commanded you. Don’t turn from it to the right hand or to the left, that you may have good success wherever you go.”

Joshua 1:6-7

Finally, after forty years of wandering the Sinai desert, God’s people were at the doorsteps of home.

They stood on the shores of the Jordan River, on the edge of Canaan. Joshua would lead them in.

Canaan was not an empty land, however. It was occupied by giants: strong people protected by fortified walls. Fear had caused Joshua’s generation to retreat back into the desert forty years before. But this day, this great city was no monster to Joshua.

God never points out the difficulties the Israelites faced. Giants are mere ants to Him; strong walls, just pebbles beneath His fingers.

God wasn’t concerned with the great challenge. He was far more interested in Joshua’s heart, his ability to stay steadfast, to follow God’s laws in spite of wayward Israelites or tempting godless neighbors.

God Himself speaks encouragement over Joshua: “Lead My people to follow My laws. Don’t spoil them and bend the rules. Don’t make exceptions. Be strong to do what’s right. Have the courage to stop My children when they wander off in sin. Lead them well. Then, I will win your battles. I will bless you and give you success wherever you go.”

Who are you following? Where are you leading?

Pray

Dear God,
Please help me focus on You, rather than on the giant problems I face. When I go where You lead, with Your help, I can overcome any obstacle. You are the source of all my success. In Jesus’ name I pray, Amen.