In the Holy Land, we loved walking where Jesus walked. Now I can more easily imagine the sights and sounds from His earthly life. But climbing up and down the uneven stones of the churches and countryside left its mark, and I arrived home with sore knees. Yet my ailments were minor compared with those journeying centuries ago, who not only experienced aching joints but suffered greatly—and even died. But God was with them.
God called His people to follow Him and invited them to live in a flourishing “land flowing with milk and honey” (Exodus 3:8). He knew that as they entered the promised land, they would face danger from opposing armies and obstacles such as walled cities. God had been with them for forty years in their desert wanderings and wouldn’t abandon them now. He promised Joshua, the new leader, His presence with them: “I will be with you; I will never leave you nor forsake you” (Joshua 1:5). Joshua would face challenges and hardships, needing to be strong and courageous, but God would help him to do so.
We who believe in Jesus, whether we’re called to stay or to go, will face dangers, challenges, and suffering in this life. But we can hold on to the promises of our God who will never leave us. Because of Him, we too can be strong and courageous.
When you’ve faced hardships, how have you experienced God’s presence? How can you turn to Him today for help, love, and support?
Saving God, when You lead me through a barren land and I fear the terrors of the night, please reassure me that You’re with me.
Joshua had been preparing to lead Israel his whole life. He’d been Moses’ aide since his youth (Numbers 11:28). He’d led the Israelite army into battle long before entering the promised land (Exodus 17:8-16). He was one of the first to explore the land he was about to enter (see Numbers 13), and he and Caleb were the only ones to express confidence that God would hand it over to them (14:5-38). Finally, he had the commission of God Himself to take over leadership from Moses (27:18-23). Just as God assured Joshua that He’d never leave him (Joshua 1:5), we can be assured that God is with us in whatever we face.
