FAITH FOR THE FUTURE

As you look forward, are you viewing the future with fear -- or faith? As believers, we should move forward with confidence, based on the eternal truth of God's Word. Take your cue from Joshua. After 40 years in the wilderness, the Israelites are finally poised to enter the Promised Land when Moses dies! God tells Joshua, "You must lead My people across the Jordan River into the land I am giving them. Everywhere you go, you will be on land I have given you. For I will be with you ... . I will not fail you or abandon you.'" (Joshua 1:2b,3b,5b). God had promised His people a land flowing with milk and honey, filled with vineyards they didn't plant and cities they didn't build. It was theirs for the taking. But first they would have to fight! So God fortifies Joshua for battle by exhorting him three times, "Be strong and courageous" (Joshua 1:6,7,9). In faith, Joshua leads the Israelites across the Jordan to a miraculous triumph over Jericho ... then to victory after victory throughout the land! But this was only possible because Joshua and his warriors took God at His word. And -- knowing the Lord was with them -- they could not fail! Today, God continues telling His people, "I will be with you! Be strong and courageous!"