Seemingly Uncharted Waters

After forty years of wandering in the wilderness, it was finally time for Israel to take possession of the promised land. Moses longed to enter, but was prohibited because of his disobedience. Instead, Joshua would lead the people into the land. Joshua, the new leader, had to wonder how all of this would come about. I wonder if he thought back to when he, Caleb, and the other spies went into the land to scope it out. Perhaps he even wondered whether the people would listen this time.

Nonetheless, it was now Joshua’s duty to lead the people into this new territory. Once again, spies were sent into the land, but, this time, the decision to take possession of the land was settled. And, so, they crossed the Jordan, taking possession of the land as they went. They still had lessons to learn about obedience and seeking God’s guidance, but they pressed onward and forward.

Every so often, we have to step out into seemingly uncharted “waters”, where our circumstances seem unfamiliar and uncomfortable. Sometimes we long for the way things used to be. Sometimes we remember the way things really used to be and keep reaching for something better. But, one way or another, life is full of change, and we must adapt whether we like it or not.

When change happens around you, how do you respond? Are you ready to step out in faith, recognizing that God is still on the throne? While the situation may be new to you, God has seen it coming, and knows your struggle. Seek His counsel. Wait patiently for His guidance, taking time to listen to Him and wise counsel from people who will be open and honest with you. Then, step out in faith. As Doug Schmidt of Woodside Bible Church (Troy, MI) put it, God says, “You’ve not been here before, but I (God) have. Follow Me.” He will not lead you astray, but we must be willing to follow. Are you willing?

In His grip,

Pastor Decker