Deuteronomy 31:6
“Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid or terrified because of them, for the Lord your God goes with you; he will never leave you nor forsake you.”
God goes with us wherever we go. He never leaves us. Never.
God’s Word assures us of that here in Deuteronomy 31, but also in many other scriptures, including Psalm 139.
When I think of the change of leadership for the Israelites after wandering in the wilderness for 40 years, I imagine they were ready for a more settled life and some new clothes!!! And yet, it was a life that was known. Moses had been their leader for 40 years after they fled Egypt, crossed the Red Sea, endured the many hardships and trials of the untamed land of the wilderness. And now Joshua will be the one to lead them into the promised land, for Moses was about to die. In our human way of thinking it does not seem fair that Moses did not get to lead them into the promised land, since he had been their leader, but God had other plans.
Sometimes we have to ask ourselves, if our way of seeing a situation is getting in the way of God’s plan and purpose. Isaiah 55:8 speaks the truth of: ‘”For my thoughts are not your thoughts, neither are your ways my ways,” declares the LORD.’
Truth be told, we often think we know best.
Its sort of like a hand stretched back to what was, and a hand stretched forward to what will be. We want to decide to what and where the hand the stretches forward.
Can we instead prayerfully, let God lead?
There will always be changes in life. God is the constant. Often when change comes, we are not in favor of it. We prefer to keep looking back and God is always about moving forward. God desires for us to trust him and to step out in faith according to HIS plan. We step out, even when the time seems uncertain or long. The largest trials bring the greatest blessings. It may seem impossible to push on while we are in the thick of the battle, but God will see us through. IF WE LET GOD LEAD……..
Everlasting God,
You do not faint or grow weary. Your understanding is unsearchable. Keep true in us the commitment we have made of service and love in your name. If there is any lack of courage or strength, O Lord, we pray that you would fill us by the power of the Holy Spirit. Let our eyes be fully focused on your, and our hearts be open to your leading. This we pray in the name of Jesus our Savior. Amen.
Rev. Norma Roberts
Durham District, Presiding Elder