The book of Joshua begins with God telling Joshua that Moses is dead, which meant Joshua was now the leader of the entire nation of Israel.

Imagine the responsibility he must have felt! I know how such a “promotion” would have made me feel: intimidated, overwhelmed, afraid — to name a few!

Perhaps Joshua’s anxiety flared up when God told him to get the people ready to cross the Jordan River into the Promised Land (Joshua 1:2). Perhaps he had a sudden terrifying vision of how terribly the people had treated Moses when he led them.

Praise God, He didn’t leave Joshua wallowing in his feelings of self-doubt. Immediately after telling Joshua to get the people ready, God told him about all the wonderful things He was going to give the Israelites (Joshua 1:3-4).

And then He says the beautiful words of today’s verse “As I was with Moses, so I will be with you. I will not fail you nor forsake you” (Joshua 1:5).

As God was with Joshua, so He is with us. The next time you’re feeling anxious, lonely, or overwhelmed, remind yourself that God is still the God of Joshua. He has promised to never leave you.

And He always keeps His promises.