---

Dear Heavenly Father, Praise Rahab told the spies, “We have heard how the Lord dried up the water of the Red Sea before you when you came out of Egypt, and what you did to the two kings of the Amorites who were beyond the Jordan…And as soon as we heard it, our hearts melted…for the Lord your God, he is God in the heavens above and on the earth beneath” (Josh 2:10–11). Imagine—a Canaanite who believed in you as the one true God! To the very end, you were reaching out to those who would turn to you in faith. Hallelujah for a God whose mighty works evangelize the lost! Today in Your Word Today you told me about the crossing of the Jordan River and Israel’s first Passover in Canaan. The thought of invading Canaan was no less daunting after Moses’ death than it was before. Joshua had served you with distinction during Moses’ leadership, but now the weight of responsibility was fully on his shoulders. It was one thing to be courageous when Moses was at the helm; it was quite another when everyone was looking to him for leadership. You broke through Joshua’s fear and doubt with words of encouragement: “Have I not commanded you? Be strong and courageous. Do not be frightened, and do not be dismayed, for the Lord your God is with you wherever you go” (Josh 1:9). This teaches me: (1) you never command me to do something your grace cannot help me to perform, (2) you never give me a task without granting me your authority, and (3) you never send me into danger alone, for you are always right there with me. Reflection At first I was surprised to realize how afraid Joshua was at the prospect of entering Canaan, but then I reminded myself that he was about to face an enemy he had no chance of defeating. How many times have I faced much smaller challenges and yet been filled with fear and doubt? Request Father, remind me that there is peace at the center of your will. If I am careful to walk in the light and obey your commands, you will give me success wherever I go (Josh 1:7). Thanksgiving Thank you for always being there for me. You told Joshua, “As I was with Moses, so I will be with you” (Josh 3:7). How wonderful to know that you will be with me just as you were with Moses and Joshua! In Jesus’ name, Amen. Suggested Hymn: “Courage, Brother, Do Not Stumble” by Norman Macleod. Meditation Verse: Joshua 1:8–9.