Ahhhhhh!

The book of Joshua has so many amazing nuggets. Here are just a few that hit me particularly as I read this time.

Joshua 1:9 This is my command - be strong and courageous! Do not be afraid or discouraged. For the Lord your God is with you wherever you go.

Joshua doesn't seem to be discouraged at all. He seems very hopeful and not at all bitter. They were finally about to take the promised land! A lack of faith caused them to wander in the dessert for 40 years when they could have been setting up house and enjoying life. Now the moment is here!

In Joshua chapter 3, we see the Israelites crossing the Jordan river. It was the flood season, so the raging river was overflowing it's banks. The priests carried the ark to the edge of the river and walked into the water. Only then, did God move that water back so that they could cross on dry land.

So often, I hear God saying, "You have to walk into the water first before I will part the sea." Take that step of faith and see what God will do!

Joshua and crew yelled and a huge wall came down. God could have just made it disappear, or knocked it down Himself, but He didn't. He includes us in what He's doing. I bet He enjoys the thrill of our participation as much as we do.

Caleb was 85-years-old when they took the promised land. Instead of retiring quietly, he asked God if he could have another spot of land for his family. God said yes, so the battle ensued and Caleb was able to claim the land for his family. It doesn't matter what age we are, if we are still drawing breath, we can still be useful, have dreams, and conquer our enemies.

Think about the last time you were blown away by what God did in your life. Would you share your story with me?

Think about where you were when God found you and how far you've come. Are you blown away now?

Reading Philippians in November and Colossians in December.