Joshua had been Moses’ right hand man. He had learned from him. He had followed him, even into unfamiliar territory.
He had envisioned the day they would reach the promised land together.
But then short of the Promised Land, Moses was gone. I wonder if Joshua thought, “What do I do now?”
God told him. He did not sugar coat it. He said, “Moses, My Servant, is dead.”
Joshua 1:2
However, after that, God did not extend sympathy. He told Joshua to get on with the mission. The best way to honor God and Moses was to fulfill the mission they had started.
God said, “Now then, you and all these people, get ready to cross the Jordan River into the land I am about to give to them.”
Joshua 1:2
If you have one of those “what do I do now” moments, wait for it.
God will always provide the “now then” direction.
He told Joshua to get ready and then move on His Command. Some Commands He had already given him through Moses. Some Commands were yet to be given.
But God assured Joshua he need not worry.
“Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged, for The Lord your God will be with you wherever you go.”
Joshua 1:9
Jesus reassured His Followers many times in advance of His leaving His earthly Body that they need not be afraid.
Indeed, the very hairs of your head are all numbered. Don’t be afraid.
Luke 12:7
Peace I leave with you; my peace I give you. I do not give to you as the world gives. Do not let your hearts be troubled and do not be afraid.
John 14:27
Yet when the moment of what appeared to be His departure came, Jesus’ Followers were afraid.
So the first thing He said to the women at the empty tomb was, “Don’t be afraid.”
Matthew 28:10
And then came the “now then” moment. His Followers saw Him again and He gave them their marching orders.
“Therefore go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, and teaching them to obey everything I have commanded you.
And be sure of this, I am with you always!”
Matthew 28:19-20
Tonight I am thinking of many who are grieving loved ones they no longer see on earth. The grief is real. The learning to live in a new way is hard.
But God answers the question of “what do I do now” in the same way as He always has.
Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged, for The Lord your God will be with you wherever you go.
Be sure of this, I am with you always!
And then wait for His Specific instructions.
Now then …
